Delhi Airport Launches E-Arrival Cards for Foreigners: A New Era of Hassle-Free Travel
Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi—the country’s busiest gateway—has taken a pioneering leap into digital travel processes by introducing E-Arrival Cards for all foreigners entering India effective October 1, 2025. This modern facility is designed to enhance convenience, streamline arrival formalities, and support sustainability, placing Delhi firmly alongside world-class international airports in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea.
What Are E-Arrival Cards?
E-Arrival Cards are electronic versions of the traditional paper-based disembarkation forms every traveler had to fill out manually upon arrival in India. The new digital system allows foreign visitors to submit their arrival details online, up to three days before their flight lands at Delhi Airport. Passengers can access the facility through the Bureau of Immigration portal, the Indian Visa website, the “Su-Swagatam” mobile application, or the official Delhi Airport website.
Key Features of Delhi’s E-Arrival Card System
- Efficiency & Speed: No more scribbling on paper forms—all information is submitted online, significantly reducing wait times at immigration counters.
- Eco-Friendly: Cutting down on paper usage aligns with global sustainability goals, supporting Delhi’s vision of a greener, digitally advanced airport.
- User-Friendly Submission: Travelers can fill out forms from anywhere—at home, on the go, or even during transit—up to 72 hours before landing.
- Multiple Access Points: Cards can be submitted via several secure platforms—official government websites, mobile apps, or the airport’s digital portal.
How to Fill Out an E-Arrival Card
- Visit one of the official portals:
- Bureau of Immigration: https://boi.gov.in
- Indian Visa Website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Su-Swagatam Mobile App
- Delhi Airport Website: www.newdelhiairport.in
- Enter personal and travel details: Full name, nationality, passport number, date of arrival, address in India, email, phone number, emergency contact, and travel history for the past six days.
- Choose purpose of visit: Tourism, business, study, medical, employment, research, or conference.
- Submit and download your confirmation: Keep the digital copy ready to show at immigration, if requested.
Benefits for Foreign Travelers
- Shorter Queues: Digital forms make the arrival process faster and smoother.
- No last-minute rush: Avoid scrambling at the airport—your information is already registered.
- Greater Control and Security: Digitization allows for better data tracking and strengthens border management systems.
- Global Standards: Experience the same level of convenience as top airports worldwide.
Transition Period and Exemptions
For the first six months, paper disembarkation cards will still be available to ease the transition, but travelers are encouraged to use the digital system for maximum benefit. Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders remain exempt from the E-Arrival Card requirement.
Why This Matters for Indian Tourism
This facility signals India’s strong digital outlook in travel, making the arrival experience seamless and attractive for global tourists. Delhi Airport’s collaboration with the Bureau of Immigration represents a crucial step in delivering world-class standards while promoting eco-friendly practices.
Conclusion
The launch of E-Arrival Cards at Delhi Airport is more than just a technological upgrade—it’s a transformative move towards a modern, efficient, and sustainable travel experience for visiting foreigners. As India continues to allure global explorers, streamlining entry processes at one of Asia’s busiest airports marks a bold stride towards international best practices. Foreign travelers can now look forward to stress-free arrivals, enhanced convenience, and assurance of world-class standards the moment they set foot in Delhi. At Explore The Holiday Packages, we welcome this digital change, knowing that smoother arrivals spark the fun that comes with discovering India’s vibrant cities, cultural riches, and scenic wonders. For all international visitors planning your next adventure, let the new E-Arrival Card be the first click in your memorable journey—and for more tips, travel inspiration, or booking help, reach out to our expert concierge team anytime!
FAQs
1. Who needs to fill out the E-Arrival Card?
Ans. All foreign nationals arriving at Delhi Airport after October 1st, 2025, must submit an E-Arrival Card before landing.
2. Are Indian citizens required to use E-Arrival Cards?
Ans. No. Indian citizens and OCI cardholders are exempt from this requirement.
3. How far in advance can the E-Arrival Card be submitted?
Ans. The form can be filled and submitted up to three days (72 hours) before your arrival at Delhi Airport.
4. What platforms can I use to submit my arrival details?
Ans. You may use the Bureau of Immigration website, the Indian Visa website, the “Su-Swagatam” app, or Delhi Airport’s official portal.
5. Will I still be able to use the paper arrival card?
Ans. A paper version will be available during a six-month transition, but the digital option is recommended for speed and efficiency.
6. What information is required on the E-Arrival Card?
Ans. Personal info (name, nationality, passport number), travel itinerary, address in India, contact details, and emergency contact.
7. What are the benefits of switching to digital arrival cards?
Ans. Reduced queues, faster processing, greater convenience, and support for green initiatives by minimizing paper use.
8. Is there any fee for using the E-Arrival Card facility?
Ans. No, the digital submission is free of charge for foreign travelers.
9. What happens if I forget to submit the form online?
Ans. You may face delays at immigration, and may need to complete a manual form, but it’s best to submit the digital version beforehand.
10. Where can I get help if I face issues with submitting the E-Arrival Card?
Ans. Support is available on all official portals; the Bureau of Immigration and Delhi Airport websites offer helplines, and at Explore The Holiday Packages, our experts can help guide you through the process.