Important Travel Update for Visitors to India — E-Arrival Card (From 1 Oct 2025)

Category: Visa Policy & Immigration News|Author: Global Visa Internationals

10/15/2025

By Global Visa Internationals•October 15, 2025
Important Travel Update for Visitors to India — E-Arrival Card (From 1 Oct 2025)

What is the E-Arrival Card?

The E-Arrival Card is a digital immigration form introduced by the Government of India to replace the paper arrival cards. It collects essential arrival information — passport and visa details, flight information, local contact/address in India, and health/customs declarations — before you reach immigration.

How to Apply — Step-by-step

  1. Visit the official portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival. You can also use the Su-Swagatam mobile app.
  2. Create or log into your account: Enter your passport number and date of birth to start. First-time users will create a profile.
  3. Fill the form: Provide personal details, passport info, visa type and validity, flight number, and your address in India. Answer health and customs questions honestly.
  4. Upload documents (if requested): Some travelers may be asked to upload a copy of the visa, OCI card, or passport page.
  5. Submit and save confirmation: After submission you will get a confirmation email and a QR code or reference number. Save a digital copy — and print one if you prefer.
  6. At arrival: Present or scan the E-Arrival confirmation at kiosks or immigration counters to speed up clearance.

Advantages of the E-Arrival Card

  • Faster immigration processing: Pre-filled digital data reduces time at counters.
  • Paperless & eco-friendly: No handwritten forms means less waste.
  • Pre-verification: Immigration receives your details before you land, smoothing arrival flows.
  • Fewer errors: Digital entry reduces mistakes from handwriting or transcription.
  • Increased security: Digital screening helps authorities process travelers more safely.

What Happens If Your Visa Expires While in India?

Staying beyond your visa validity is a serious immigration violation in India. If your visa expires while you are in India, act immediately.

Consequences of overstaying

  • Fines and penalties that depend on duration of overstay.
  • Possible deportation and a ban on future visas.
  • Detention in severe or deliberate overstay cases.

Immediate steps to take

  1. Visit the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the nearest immigration office without delay.
  2. Apply for an extension or regularization via the e-FRRO portal.
  3. Keep all receipts and communication records — you may need proof of your application and attempts to regularize status.
If you suspect your visa will expire while in India, do not delay — apply for an extension before expiry when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the E-Arrival Card free?

Yes — the E-Arrival Card portal is a government service. Beware of third-party sites charging for form submission.

Do OCI cardholders need an E-Arrival Card?

Yes. From 1 Oct 2025 the E-Arrival Card requirement applies to all foreign nationals, including OCI cardholders.

Can I fill the E-Arrival Card on arrival?

It’s strongly recommended to complete the form before travel. Some airports may allow on-arrival completion via kiosks or the Su-Swagatam app, but pre-submission is faster and safer.

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