India Arrival Card (e-Arrival): Requirements & Online Form Guide
Traveling to India in 2026 is an exciting and uniquely charming experience. But before you start your trip, it's essential for every traveler to know the procedures and documents required for immigration. One of the key documents is the Indian immigration form, or Arrival Card, which must be filled out accurately and completely to ensure a smooth entry. Trip.com presents this article to help explain the important information about the Indian immigration form, so you can be fully prepared for your trip to India.
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What is the Indian Arrival Card?
Source: India Visa Online
The Indian Arrival Card is the official entry declaration form used by India’s immigration to verify traveler identity, travel details, and purpose of visit. Traditionally a paper card distributed on flights or at ports of entry, it has been fully digitized and replaced by the e‑Arrival Card system. This digital document is linked to your passport and must be submitted in advance; it is not a visa, but a compulsory pre-arrival requirement for all non‑Indian citizens entering India.
Do Australians Need an Arrival Card to enter India?
Yes, Australian citizens are required to complete an online e-Arrival Card before entering India.
Key Details & Submission Process
- Who it applies to: All foreign passport holders—including Australian citizens—and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders.
- Submission Window: Must be submitted online up to 72 hours (3 days) before arrival in India.
- Cost: The e-Arrival Card is completely free.
- Official Platforms:
- Portal:indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival
- App: Official Indian Visa Su-Swagatam Mobile App (iOS / Android)
What You Need to Complete It
- Passport & Visa/OCI Details: Passport number, expiry date, and valid Indian eVisa / Visa / OCI number.
- Flight & Arrival Information: Flight number, arrival date, and port of entry (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai).
- Address in India: Hotel name and address or the host's full address.
- Recent Travel History: List of countries visited in the past 14 days.
Important Distinction: The e-Arrival Card does not replace a visa. Australian passport holders still require a valid Indian Visa / eVisa prior to travel.
What is an e-Tourist Visa for India?
An e-Tourist Visa (eTV) for India is an official electronic travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to enter India for non-business, short-term travel. Instead of visiting an Indian embassy or sending away a physical passport, travelers complete the process 100% online.
Once approved, the traveler receives an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email, which is presented at Indian immigration alongside their passport to receive an entry stamp.
Key Features & Options
Visa Type | Validity | Entries | Maximum Continuous Stay |
30-Day e-Tourist Visa | 30 days from date of first entry | Double Entry | Up to 30 days total |
1-Year e-Tourist Visa | 365 days from date of issue | Multiple Entries | Up to 90 or 180 days per visit (varies by nationality) |
5-Year e-Tourist Visa | 5 years from date of issue | Multiple Entries | Up to 90 or 180 days per visit (varies by nationality) |
How to fill out the e‑Arrival Card for India
The e‑Arrival Card is completed exclusively through official government websites — no third‑party agents are required, and no fee is charged.
Step 1: Access the official portal
Use the official Bureau of Immigration or Indian Visa Online portal:
- Indian Visa Online: indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival
- Bureau of Immigration: boi.gov.in
Step 2: Prepare your information
Have your passport info (number, issue/expiry), flight number, arrival date/airport, travel purpose, Indian accommodation address, email, phone, and emergency contact ready.
Step 3: Complete and submit
Fill the form accurately (match passport/visa exactly), review and submit, then save the QR code confirmation (digital or print backup).
Step 4: At immigration
Show the QR code at check‑in and immigration; no paper forms needed, as immigration verifies your digital record electronically.
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Where and When should you Fill out your India Arrival Immigration Form?
When it comes to filling out your India arrival card, there are several ways and times to do it, all designed to help you breeze through immigration quickly and without any hiccups!
✍️ Where to fill out your arrival card.
- On the plane, most airlines will distribute immigration forms for passengers to fill out while traveling to India, which is a convenient way to save time at the airport.
- At the airport in India, if you didn't fill it out on the plane, you can complete your immigration form at the service counters inside the airport before going through immigration.
- Online (e-Arrival Card): India has an online immigration form system that helps you breeze through checkpoints and spend less time waiting in line.
✍️ Best time to fill out
- If you're filling it out on the plane, make sure to finish before you land at the airport in India.
- If you're filling it out online, be sure to do so at least 24 hours before your trip.
- If you're filling it out at the airport, it's best to do it as soon as you arrive to avoid wasting time in line.
✍️ Important Tips
- Always make sure to fill in all your details completely and accurately.
- Keep your completed immigration form with you until you leave India.
- If you spot any incorrect information, please let our staff know right away so we can fix it!
How to Prepare for your Trip to India
Preparing for your trip to India is crucial for a smooth and safe journey. Check out this table to help make your planning easier.
Category | What to pack | Additional tips |
Important Documents | Passport, Indian visa, and Indian immigration form | Check your passport expiration date and apply for your visa in advance. |
Flight tickets | Round-trip ticket or proof of onward travel from India | Book in advance for the best rates. |
Accommodations in India | Hotel information and accommodation address | Book in advance and keep the address handy for filling out your immigration form. |
Money and Finance | Indian Rupee (INR), Credit/Debit Cards | Calculate your estimated budget: “How much does it cost to travel to India in 2026?” |
Health and Vaccinations | Check for any required vaccinations, such as yellow fever or the flu shot. | It's a good idea to get a health check-up before your trip and don't forget to pack your essential medications. |
Prohibited Items | Avoid bringing prohibited items, such as narcotics, weapons, or certain types of food. | Carefully research the “items prohibited from entering India.” |
Communication devices | India SIM card or India eSIM | Buy it in advance or at the airport for convenience. |
Itinerary | Plan your travel route and activities | Prepare information on tourist attractions and how to get there |
Language and Culture | Learn some basic vocabulary and essential etiquette for your trip to India. | Helps you communicate and understand the culture even better. |
[10% Off] What are Best Hotels for India
We recommend the following India accommodations with 10% Off:
India Hotels
5 star
Very Good156 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.46km from downtown
*Poor hospitality - hotel staff lying to guests & downgrading guest’s room type during their stay*
This is my second time staying at this hotel, as I find the location and facilities suitable. However, I am extremely disappointed this time due to the poor level of hospitality.
I booked my stay from February 11 to 14 initially, and then added one more night on February 10. We arrived at the hotel at 23:45 on February 10.
When we checked in, we informed the staff that we had two bookings. At first, the staff asked us to check out and check in again on February 11. This was very strange and inconvenient for us. After some discussion, the staff said we did not need to check out and check in again on February 11. The room type was also upgraded to a suite, and the staff assured us that this upgrade would be valid for the entire stay until February 14.
On February 11, around 16:00, we received a call from the hotel informing us of issues on the entire 11th floor and requesting us to move to another room. This was very disturbing, as we had just checked in late the previous evening. Unpacking and repacking our bags exhausted us.
The staff assured us that the new room would be of the same type as our current one. However, when we moved and reached the new room, it was a standard room. We are disappointed that the staff has been dishonest. How can a hotel downgrade a guest’s room during their stay? This is absolutely unacceptable.
When we called the staff, they claimed that we had to leave the suite because it was full. The reason given earlier (issues on the 11th floor) was a lie. Moreover, we did not receive a room of the same type as our original one. This has been a completely horrible experience for us.
When we returned at night, we saw that some guests were going to the 11th floor, which indicates there are no issues there. This clearly shows that the staff's explanation was false.
I hope there will be an explanation. Is this discrimination because I am not a local Indian? I also believe that better training for your staff is needed. This kind of hospitality only damages the hotel’s reputation.
I am also providing the upgraded and downgraded room type as a proof of this comment.FromPKR 25,383
Amazing138 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.73km from downtown
I had a wonderful stay at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi. The hotel combines luxury, comfort, and excellent hospitality in one of the best locations in Delhi. The rooms were spacious, clean, and very comfortable, with beautiful city views and high-quality amenities.
The breakfast was outstanding with a wide variety of international and Indian options, and the service throughout the hotel was consistently warm and professional. The spa, health club, and overall atmosphere made the stay very relaxing.
What I appreciated most was the attention to detail and how welcoming the staff were at every moment. The location is also excellent, close to Connaught Place and many key attractions in Delhi.
Overall, it was a memorable experience, and I would highly recommend Shangri-La Eros New Delhi for both business and leisure stays.FromPKR 52,995
Very Good95 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|14.42km from downtown
The room layout was well-designed, cozy, and comfortable. The service was prompt and responsive to our needs. Breakfast was plentiful, and the staff were all very polite. We had a very satisfying stay and found it convenient being close to the airport.FromPKR 27,117
Great172 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.84km from downtown
Here’s a more natural version of your review:
The stay at The Roseate was an experience from the moment I arrived. The welcome begins with a traditional blessing ceremony, followed by fresh juice, sweets, and water. Everyone makes you feel genuinely looked after.
The spa was very good, but the highlight of my stay was definitely breakfast. It is, without question, the best hotel breakfast I have experienced. The variety of choices is outstanding, the service is exceptional, and even the use of technology—a serving robot—adds a fun touch without taking away from the hospitality.
There is one area that could be improved: cleaning . I found a hair in the bathtub, and the divan behind the cushions was dusty and hadn’t been cleaned properly.
Next time, I will check the room when I arrive and ask for anything that needs attention to be cleaned.
Despite that, I would happily stay at The Roseate again.
Despite that, I would happily stay at The Roseate again.FromPKR 34,298
Very Good138 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.7km from downtown
The hotel is conveniently located near Connaught Place. I chose this hotel specifically because it has a bathtub. It turned out to be a great decision! The water temperature was around 40°C, which was a bit lukewarm for me, but it was essential to soak away the fatigue from my trip in India, so it was a huge help.
This was my hotel for the final night of my 7-day trip. My stomach was quite tired, and I was craving Japanese food. To my surprise, I found a Japanese restaurant on the first floor of this very hotel when I searched online.
The prices were on the higher side, but the taste was as good as what you'd find in Japan, and the presentation was delicate. I was extremely satisfied.FromPKR 25,466
Business travel
69 Reviews
Karol Bagh New Delhi|4.9km from downtown
The staff are very friendly and the room is kept very clean! recommend! The staff are very friendly and the room is kept very clean! recommend! The staff are very friendly and the room is kept very clean! recommend! The staff are very friendly and the room is kept very clean! recommend! ,FromPKR 19,646
Very Good135 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.77km from downtown
My stay at the Ambassador Hotel in New Delhi was a very special and welcoming experience.
The location of the hotel is right next to the “Khan Market” metro station, in a central area but yet quiet and peaceful. The room and facilities are of a high standard, and the breakfast offers a wide variety, including Indian specialties as well as Western options.
As it is my first time visiting India, I had many inquiries, the front office team (Wasi, Tashi, Nipaisn, Kishan, Vansh, and the Front Office Manager Lakshay Nirvla) were very patient and helped me navigate in Delhi. Furthermore, after checking out, I had difficulty booking trains for my next destination, but they all helped. Thanks to them, I had all my journey arranged, including taxi drivers and train tickets.
I usually don’t write reviews of my hotel stays, but this wonderful experience and the warm-hearted people I met here truly made the difference. I warmly recommend this hotel for its location, facilities, food, and, most of all, its amazing team.FromPKR 31,740
Very Good281 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.52km from downtown
I stayed one night with my husband to stop over to the next place. The location is super good, it is near the airport. You can enjoy variety of meals inside the hotel and outside too.FromPKR 27,406
71 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.72km from downtown
The hotel is a decent property located at a prime location in New Delhi. The rooms are a tad bit small and look a little dated. The house keeping team does a fantastic job of cleaning up each day and it feels good to be back to a well made bed and clean room after a long work day. The key cards seem to be a recurring issue with them needing repeated activation. Breakfast spread is decent and not much to brag about. In room dining is pretty expensive and is quite a deterrent. But the location helps to overlook a lot of the minor inconveniences.FromPKR 19,068
Very Good66 Reviews
New Delhi|8.3km from downtown
The staff were professional, courteous, and always willing to assist, which made the overall experience seamless. The dining options are excellent, with a good variety of cuisines and high-quality food. The location is also convenient, providing easy access to key business districts.FromPKR 31,409
Family friendly
Great256 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.75km from downtown
We stayed for a night where was a comfy stay after stayed in the scam hotel (Hotel Emerald).
The location is convenient as it’s nearby the airport. The security, front line & restaurant staff provide good services with smiles. You also can go to food court nearby with different food choices. Highly recommendedFromPKR 22,453
Amazing131 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|6.57km from downtown
- Slow service at front desk staff, the lady at front desk took more than 20mins for a check out guest 1 queue before me. She even didnot care or look at me keeping petiance while waiting too long just to ask for deposit back. And when it comes to my queue, slowly took mor than 10 mins to return cash deposit. DISAPPOINTED!!
- Breakfast, almost good, but staff is not well manner, keep focus on introduction to the breakfast instruction without realize that the guest is engaging on the phone. Still keep distract with bad manner!! DISAPPOINTED!!FromPKR 34,629
Very Good65 Reviews
New Delhi|9.32km from downtown
Good place but ultimate location, right at community center of NFC makes it super nice and easy for accessibility. Property is old but well managed with valet parking services and nice reception with cafe.FromPKR 18,614
Amazing79 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|6.91km from downtown
About 25 mins drive from the airport in good traffic.
The hotel is huge, grand and luxurious. There are 2 flights of stairs to navigate from the entrance to the lobby level. Something to note for those with physical disabilities.
The room is a little small for 2 pax, though the bathroom and shower area is a good size with all amenities provided. Water pressure in the shower is good. Bed and pillows are way too soft for my liking, never a fan of beds that sink in.
Breakfast at the Capital Kitchen is a standard spread. A small selection of cold cuts, typical buffet line of American breakfast staples of sausages, baked beans and potatoes. Live station for eggs and Indian staples.
Service was excellent and friendly. Overall a comfortable stay but I do think they can go easy with the scent / perfuming, it was so strong (and pungent for me) that it gave me a bad headache.FromPKR 26,002
Great108 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.5km from downtown
I requested a non-smoking room, but was given a smoking room. There was a clear smell of smoke upon entering, and an ashtray with matches was on the table. Since I arrived late at night, I couldn't be bothered to switch rooms. The location is excellent, which is a significant plus.FromPKR 30,295
Hot spring
Very Good65 Reviews
New Delhi|12.7km from downtown
Great value for money, and my main clients are nearby. I'll definitely book this hotel again. The breakfast spread was excellent too, a really good choice overall. The staff were polite and enthusiastically explained how to rent a car for our travels.FromPKR 20,224
Very Good42 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.77km from downtown
Very friendly staff. Specially the security guards including Mr Daulat who helped a lot with address and luggage issues. The managers and the employees were very kind and polite as well. Overall wonderful stay ! Will come back againFromPKR 25,425
Very Good427 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.62km from downtown
A great choice for a layover at New Delhi Airport. Ibis is an international hotel chain, and the biggest fear when transiting at New Delhi Airport is ending up in a dodgy hotel. Staying at Ibis offers peace of mind, as both the service and hygiene quality are very reliable, and the price is quite affordable. Although the hotel has some history, the facilities are still good. The breakfast is also delicious, with food options suitable for international travelers' tastes. Recommended for travelers looking for a safe and comfortable hotel at an economical price.FromPKR 17,995
98 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.12km from downtown
This property has an excellent location with close proximity to shopping, dining & tourism. Restaurant has great food selection (buffet with many cook to order stations). Chef Nazir is great & extremly accommodating to special request overall wonderful service. Staff in all areas is well trained & shows 1st class hospitality. Only re commendation is to fix the glass doors of the bathrooms in the rooms. They have big gaps leading to lack of privacy. This should be on a priority list for the hotel management to address.
Overall a great hotel!FromPKR 21,751
Very Good181 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.34km from downtown
When booking, I was torn between rooms. After comparing photos, I chose the Standard Queen Room because I liked the idea of a window in front of the desk.
Upon checking in, I was shown a windowless room, but when I requested a change, they happily accommodated me.
The location is convenient, but it's an area with constant heavy traffic, so some taxi drivers might lie and say they can't get in, trying to drop you off. Just be aware of that point.
The room was generally clean, though there were a few spots that weren't thoroughly cleaned, which is why I haven't given it a top score. However, considering the price, I think this hotel offers excellent value for money.
From my impression of walking around the area, there are many cheap hotels, but if you need a simple and bright atmosphere, this is probably the only choice.FromPKR 7,140
Gym
Great121 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.94km from downtown
Ruined my trip to India! It was the first hotel we stayed at for the whole trip and this set the bar SO HIGH for all other hotels. It was an AMAZING experience, the hotel looks better in person than in the pictures. Cannot recommend it enough. If you get the chance, definetly go for it!FromPKR 40,407
Amazing126 Reviews
New Delhi|7.07km from downtown
Heard so much about the Leela Palace hospitality & wanted to experience it myself. It was indeed a lovely experience starting from the warm welcome we received upon arrival.
Food wise they had a good selection for dinner & breakfast including both continental & Indian dishes.
The hotel needs an upgrade to the facade & rooms as it’s beginning to show signs of age.
On the whole an enjoyable experience.😊👍🏼FromPKR 66,409
Great51 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.63km from downtown
The hotel is conveniently located near the airport, which is great for layovers. The room was clean enough and had all the essentials. Check-in took an exceptionally long time, possibly due to an early check-in. We spent about an hour at the front desk. We used room service, and the food was delicious with a nice presentation. They also helped us with an airport transfer. You can walk around the neighborhood; there are many shops and stalls.FromPKR 51,964
Amazing134 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.49km from downtown
Facilities were good but our room key kept de-activating so it was a bit annoying to keep going down to reception to get it re-activated. Breakfast - there are limited options on the first floor so we preferred to sit on ground floor as we had to keep going down from first to ground floor to get some items that were not available on first floor. Other than that pleasant stay. Toothbrush, toothpaste, gowns, slippers provided which was nice and the big sofa in hotel room was very nice. Cosy.FromPKR 34,133
Very Good132 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.94km from downtown
Good Experience! The staff was welcoming and accommodating right from the moment in hotel. The room was clean, and the view of the city from it was splendid.FromPKR 46,928
Swimming pool
Outstanding128 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.32km from downtown
Second time staying in this hotel. Service is as good as you can get anywhere, top notch. Facilities are great, with gym and spa. Staff are well trained, polite and often remember my name, make a huge difference. Did a spa this time which is slightly pricy but experience is decent.FromPKR 73,096
Amazing139 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.39km from downtown
The Taj Mahal Delhi is a beautiful hotel with splendid decor and an old school ambience. However, some of the underlying cost cutting is noticeable.
The breakfast buffet for example is anything but - with a handful of items such as bread and rudimentary cereal laid out but anything substantial needs to be ordered and it arrives in due time in small portions. It's awkward to know how many times can one order in the circumstances.
Another example occured when I changed some currency at the hotel. I expected the rate to be bad and it was, but this was not an issue. I am happy to pay for luxury and convenience. However, what irked me slightly was when the staff explained that there was no change so she couldn't give me 60 INR. It's a very small amount but I felt it was a liberty - imagine offering currency exchange at an exorbitant rate but you don't have currency.
Other than that we had a good stay. The pool was stunning as was my beautiful club suite. It was a very generous size and beautifully designed with views over the pool and Delhi beyond - a real oasis in noisy and bustling Delhi.
The club lounge is ok but not really worth paying for - the timings for high tea etc are so inconvenient that you won't be able to use them.
Overall, this was still a good stay and probably the best hotel for the price in this part of town.FromPKR 49,074
Very Good52 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.25km from downtown
The service was excellent, and the staff also gave me helpful advice about things to be careful about while traveling in India. On top of that, the breakfast was delicious. I highly recommend this hotel!FromPKR 4,788
Very Good109 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|12.81km from downtown
We stayed here for 2 nights for a weekend getaway. The location is ideal—just a 5-minute walk from Central Station and right next to great local restaurants. The room was spotless, and the bed was incredibly comfortable.FromPKR 32,235
Great98 Reviews
New Delhi|5km from downtown
The original Anzhen Delhi, after changing the self-operated brand, the price is close to the people. Kerry Hill's classic work, the light and shadow effect of the corridor is very good, you can see the design inspiration of Tokyo Anzhen here. Fully equipped, very close to Humayun’s Tomb. For breakfast, let people forget to be in India.FromPKR 94,145
Breakfast
Very Good95 Reviews
South Delhi New Delhi|12.08km from downtown
Fast check in by the receptionist, the hotel is nice and beside a shopping mall. Wifi is quite strong and all the necessary amenities are provided in the room.FromPKR 40,407
11 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.29km from downtown
Near New Delhi Station, it’s better than a normal hotel.FromPKR 13,001
15 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.11km from downtown
Location convenient and budget stay, food is niceFromPKR 9,534
Very Good49 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.33km from downtown
โรงแรมอยู่ในโซนใจกลางเมือง ห่างจากสถานีรถไฟและสถานี MRT ไม่มาก ตัวโรงแรมตั้งอยู่ในซอยแยกจากถนนใหญ่ไปนิดเดียว ทำให้ไม่จอแจ และเป็นส่วนตัวมากขึ้น มีร้านค้าอยู่ใกล้เคียงหลายร้าน บริการในโรงแรมดี มีครบทุกอย่าง ทั้ง แอร์คอนดิชั่น ไดร์เป่าผม ตู้เย็น กาน้ำร้อน มี room service ที่ราคาไม่แพง และมีเมนูหลากหลาย รสชาดใช้ได้ มีอาหารเช้าให้บริหารทั้งอาหารอินเดียและอาหารเช้าแบบฝรั่ง ภายในโรงแรมเหมือนเพิ่งปรับปรุงทาสีใหม่ แต่เครื่องใช้จำพวก เครื่องนอน ผ้าเช็ดตัว ออกจะเก่าอยู่ซักหน่อย ความสะอาดภายในห้องพัก กลางๆ พื้นห้องเป็นไม้ ให้ความรู่สึกเหมือนมีฝุ่นที่พื้นอยู่บ้าง ห้องน้ำสะอาดพอใช้ได้ ภายนอกห้องพัก ก็สะอาดใช้ได้ แสงสว่างดีค่ะ คุ้มค่ากับราคาสำหรับพักค้างคืน ก่อนเดินทางต่อFromPKR 7,553
Good100 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.31km from downtown
Easy checkin process... 24 hours kitchen services... I stayed in room number 105..spacious room with an outside view... we order three times food during our stay.... frankly speaking I didn’t find any complaints about the taste... FromPKR 13,868
FAQs About India Arrival Card
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Do I need an Arrival Card to enter India?
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How do I fill out an e‑Arrival Card for India?
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What is an Indian Arrival Card?
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What happens if I don’t submit the India Arrival Card?
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What is the difference between India e-Visa and e-Arrival Card?
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