Good news for people who are planning to visit India! From October 1, 2025, Foreign Travellers to India will no longer have to fill out paper immigration or disembarkation forms when they arrive at the airport. The Government of India has decided to make this process completely digital to make travel smoother and faster for everyone entering the country.
This change is a big step toward modernization and part of India’s goal to simplify travel procedures. The new digital system will help reduce queues at immigration counters, cut down paperwork, and make the arrival experience more comfortable for visitors. Let’s explore what this new rule means, how it will work, and what Foreign Travellers to India need to know before their journey.
What Has Changed?
Until now, all Foreign Travellers to India had to fill out a paper disembarkation card before reaching the immigration counter. This form included basic details like name, flight number, passport number, and address in India. It was a small card handed out by airline staff or available near immigration lines.
But from October 1, 2025, that paper form will no longer be required. Instead, travellers will have to fill out their details online through a new system called the e-Arrival Card.
This means you can submit all the required information digitally before your flight lands in India. The immigration officers at the airport will already have your data, which will make the checking process faster and more organized.
During the first few months after the change, a short transition period will be allowed where both paper and digital forms will work. However, it’s highly recommended that you switch to the digital form as soon as possible.
Why Did India Remove Paper Immigration Forms?
This update is not just about convenience—it’s also about making the travel experience smarter and more efficient. Here are some simple reasons why this decision was made:
- Faster processing:
When Foreign Travellers to India fill in their information online, immigration officers can access it instantly. This helps speed up the process at the airport and reduces long waiting lines. - Less paperwork:
The old paper forms were often time-consuming and required thousands of printed copies daily. The new digital system is eco-friendly and saves time for both travellers and immigration staff. - Better accuracy and security:
Digital forms allow automatic data checking and reduce chances of mistakes or incomplete information. It also helps the government maintain better security control. - Part of Digital India:
India is moving toward becoming a fully digital nation. This step supports the government’s broader goal of using technology to improve services for citizens and travellers alike. - A global trend:
Many countries have already introduced digital immigration systems. India’s adoption of the e-Arrival Card puts it in line with other major travel destinations.
Who Will Be Affected by This Change?
This rule mainly applies to Foreign Travellers to India — including tourists, business visitors, and those visiting friends or family.
If you are a foreign national, you will now be required to submit your arrival information online instead of on paper.
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders will also need to fill out the new e-Arrival Card. Previously, OCI cardholders were exempt from this process, but now they must complete it just like other foreign travellers.
However, Indian citizens are not affected by this change. They do not need to fill out arrival cards, whether paper or digital.
How Will the New Digital Process Work?
The process is very simple and can be completed in just a few minutes. Here’s how Foreign Travellers to India can do it step-by-step:
- Go online before your trip:
Visit the official portal for immigration or the India Online Visa website, where the e-Arrival form will be available. - Submit the e-Arrival Card:
Fill in the required details such as your passport number, flight details, visa type, and address in India. You can submit this information up to 72 hours before arrival in India. - Check your details carefully:
Make sure all the information is correct because any mistakes can cause delays at immigration. - Save confirmation:
After you submit the form, you’ll receive a confirmation slip or digital acknowledgment. Keep a copy on your phone or print it out in case you need to show it at the airport. - Arrive and clear immigration quickly:
Once you arrive, the immigration officer will already have your information in the system. This will make the entire process faster and more comfortable.
How Is It Connected to India Online Visa?
The India Online Visa system has already made it easier for travellers to apply for their visas from anywhere in the world. With the introduction of the e-Arrival Card, the entire journey — from visa application to entry — becomes fully digital.
When you apply for your India Online Visa, you already provide details like your passport information and travel purpose. Now, by submitting the e-Arrival Card online, your immigration data will match your visa record automatically.
This creates a smoother and more secure process for both travellers and Indian immigration authorities.
Benefits for Foreign Travellers to India
This change will make travelling to India much easier and stress-free. Here are the main benefits for Foreign Travellers to India:
- No more paper hassle: You no longer have to search for a pen or stand in line to fill out forms after a long flight.
- Faster entry: Immigration officers can process your entry quickly since your data is already in the system.
- Better convenience: You can fill in the form from home or even on your phone before traveling.
- Eco-friendly: The new digital system saves paper and helps the environment.
- Consistency: The online arrival form works smoothly with the India Online Visa, ensuring a connected travel experience.
What Should Travellers Keep in Mind?
Even though this process is easy, there are a few things Foreign Travellers to India should remember:
- Always use official government websites or the Su-Swagatam app to submit your details.
- Double-check your passport and visa information before submission.
- Save the confirmation copy for safety.
- Avoid last-minute submissions; try to fill the form at least one day before your flight.
- Keep checking for any new announcements from Indian immigration authorities.
Final Thoughts
The decision to remove paper immigration forms is a welcome move for Foreign Travellers to India. It reflects India’s growing focus on technology, convenience, and traveller satisfaction. The e-Arrival Card makes travel simpler, faster, and safer for everyone.
By combining this digital arrival process with the India Online Visa system, India is making its borders smarter and more efficient. Whether you are coming for tourism, business, or cultural exploration, this change will make your arrival experience smoother than ever.
So, next time you plan your trip, don’t forget to submit your e-Arrival Card before flying — and enjoy a paper-free welcome to India!