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 Good164 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.46km from downtown
Property is clean and well managed with a smooth running of operations. Very comfortable stay and good breakfast. It’s a popular choice of indian and international tourists visiting India. The service was a tad bit slow, but it’s really not an issue. Staff is very friendly, courteous and professional and we enjoyed our stay here. It felt safe and comfortable and we will be visiting again.FromPHP 7,123
Amazing143 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.FromPHP 17,693
Great105 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|14.42km from downtown
The rooms are beautiful. Very comfy beds and extremely spacious.
The food was amazing and that guava juice... best ive had!
Small areas of service just let it down a little. Such as removing plates before the next course arrives.
Also, the marble surrounding the pool was lethal when wet - perhaps a mat to walk on would be helpful?FromPHP 8,291
Great179 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.84km from downtown
Stayed at Rose House and it genuinely exceeded expectations. The rooms were spotless and comfortable, and the staff went out of their way to make sure everything was sorted — friendly without being intrusive. Great location, easy to get around from here. Would happily stay again and recommend it to anyone visitingFromPHP 9,536
Very Good143 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.7km from downtown
The whole experience began unsatisfactorily, with the first 2 nights stay not great. But after requesting a room change, and a meeting with the manager, the manager tried his best to rectify all the issues, and offered us a free meal for 2 as compensation. The meal was in their Japanese restaurant on our wedding anniversary, and was first class in every way
The staff are super ;olite and helpfulFromPHP 6,644
Business travel
71 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! ,FromPHP 5,457
Very Good136 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.77km from downtown
Great location, superb surroundings, spacious rooms, cleanliness is spot on and staff are amiable.
Whether you are traveling solo or with family a great safe place to stay and plan your daily trips with ease. Walking distance to metro station (3-4 minutes).FromPHP 10,053
Very Good300 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.52km from downtown
The check in counter staff looked very busy in his phone call other staff members were laughing chit chatting around but no one was attending the customer standing for check in at 5 pm. Same story at check out at 10 am . Except counter staff service style other things are ok .FromPHP 7,037
77 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.72km from downtown
1. The amount paid for the room is not appropriate for the price paid.
2. The cleanliness of the room is not as clean as it should be. The chair covers are very old and torn.
3. The refrigerator is not cold and is very old.
4. The safe cannot be locked because the battery in the safe does not have a battery.
5. When delivering the room to the customer, the staff should check the cleanliness, completeness of the appliances such as the refrigerator, safe, and bedroom to see if they are ready for use. The room is quite old and not worth the price paid at 3,600 baht per night.FromPHP 5,553
Great97 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.78km from downtown
The room was quite small for 2 people, but it was still manageable. It was very clean, which we really appreciated. The location was perfect-everything was within walking distance, with plenty of malls, cafes and restaurants nearby. The airport is also very close, which made travel easy and convenient.FromPHP 6,644
Family friendly
Very Good68 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.FromPHP 9,536
Great268 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.75km from downtown
Hey guys I recently visited Holiday Inn in New Delhi and stayed there for two days. It was a wonderful experience. The hotel is very well maintained, clean, and comfortable. The atmosphere was pleasant, and I really enjoyed my stay. The weather and overall ambiance made the experience even better. I would definitely prefer to stay at this hotel again whenever I visit Delhi in the future.FromPHP 7,937
Amazing132 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!!FromPHP 11,403
Very Good69 Reviews
New Delhi|9.32km from downtown
Absolutely stunning atmosphere and great service out there. From the welcoming person to the person who is handling the Gym and the spa are really hospitable and respectful. You will have all the facilities you want during your stay including a fitness center, SPA, Sauna, Steam bath, Jacuzzi and delicious food buffet. Recommending to anyone who is looking for a nice hotel located in New DelhiFromPHP 6,003
Amazing82 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|6.91km from downtown
Hotel feels rather dated. The exterior needs a fresh paint and refurbishment. The interior is still decent but needs a face lift.
Gym, Jacuuzi, Steam room and cold bath combo was great. Breakfast is really busy but they have an alternate venue below. Variety and taste is 4/5.FromPHP 11,067
Hot spring
Very Good72 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.FromPHP 4,940
Very Good43 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|0.77km from downtown
Upon entering the hotel, there's a security check for all guests, regardless of whether you're staying or not. All your belongings go through a machine, similar to airport security. While it's a bit of a hassle, it definitely makes you feel safer knowing that unauthorized people can't easily get in. The location is excellent, right in the heart of Connaught Place, which is a prime spot in Delhi. The room was very spacious and clean. Hot water for the shower was instant. They also provided two large bottles of water, which was very convenient for brushing teeth and so on.FromPHP 7,362
Great141 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.38km from downtown
I had a wonderful stay at the Pullman New Delhi Aerocity. The hotel is conveniently located near the airport, making it perfect for transit travelers and business trips. The rooms were modern, spacious, and very well maintained, with comfortable beds and great amenities.
The staff provided excellent hospitality throughout my stay and were always professional and welcoming. The breakfast buffet had a wide selection of delicious food, and the dining experience overall was impressive. I also enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere and the hotel facilities, especially the gym and pool area.
Overall, Pullman Aerocity offers a luxurious and comfortable experience, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting New Delhi.FromPHP 8,693
Great396 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.46km from downtown
The hotel is certainly clean, and the staff are polite. However, at this price, I was surprised there wasn't even a private bathroom. The fact that Wi-Fi required free member registration was also inconvenient. The buffet was luxurious with a wide variety of dishes, but the variations were all Indian cuisine. There were breads, but no rice, just curries and naan. Since there were croissants and bacon, Western food wasn't an issue. Also, the laundry service is absolutely not recommended. They didn't tell me the price beforehand, and I was charged 4000 yen when it was done. The phone service was also poor. It's a good hotel, but for this price, I feel there should be more services. As it was my first time in India, I don't know the standard, but perhaps this is normal for India?FromPHP 6,261
Very Good452 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.62km from downtown
This hotel is not far from the airport. You can easily get there either by metro or by taxi. We used the metro as it was faster than accessing the parking and waiting for uber. The room is clean, but very small. If you get here only for sleeping - it’s more than fine. Several cafes and restaurants nearby. The only thing that was annoying - the buzzing dynamic mounted on the corridor ceiling. When you have all devices and sources of sound turned off - you can hear only annoying buzz from it.FromPHP 5,227
Gym
101 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.12km from downtown
Excellent service from the Ms.Ruby madam for processing is check in and check out smoothly and also alerting us for the hotel regulations and supporting us very effective whenever we need details. Thanks for her and a nice place to stay with family and loving ones. Best of luck to the hotel to achieve great customer service in india.FromPHP 4,691
Great118 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.5km from downtown
My flight was in the morning, so I stayed at a hotel near the airport. They were very flexible during my stay. My flight was delayed, and I requested an extended stay, an additional breakfast, and laundry service, all of which they accommodated. Although the extended stay was unexpected, there are souvenir shops and restaurants within walking distance, so I got to experience a different side of India.FromPHP 7,372
Great124 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.94km from downtown
The Claridges was excellent value for money. It is located in a quieter area, so we needed to get a taxi every day, but we preferred to be further away from the hustle and bustle of Delhi. There was an excellent spread at breakfast and the pastries were yummy. You could also order French toast, eggs benedict, masala dossa etc. I cannot praise the staff at breakfast enough - they were efficient, attentive, and polite! We used the pool and the sauna. The only hiccup was that we were placed next to a room which was under refurbishment. There was tolerable noise during the day, but by day 3 there was a strong smell of solvent. We were given a room upgrade which was appreciated but I do not expect a 5 star hotel to place any guests in a room adjacent to one that is being actively refurbished.FromPHP 12,398
Amazing127 Reviews
New Delhi|7.07km from downtown
A truly beautiful hotel, part of an excellent hotel chain in India. The soundproofing is fantastic; I celebrated New Year's Eve there, and by 00:30 I was comfortably back in my room sleeping, with almost no street noise audible. The breakfast was delicious, and the massage was great. Everything was superb!
P.S. You don't even need to leave the hotel – it's like an apocalypse outside!FromPHP 23,810
Great54 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.63km from downtown
◼︎ **Access**
About a 15-minute Uber ride from the airport. I stayed two nights here – one on my arrival day late at night, and another for an early morning flight on my departure day. It's truly close to the airport, which was great for taking a shower and resting before a long flight.
◼︎ **Room Cleanliness**
I'm a bit of a germaphobe, but there wasn't a single thing that bothered me. (Literally, not a speck of dust!) The entire room was clean, and I had a very comfortable stay.
◼︎ **Concierge Hospitality**
This was the most satisfying aspect of my stay. Just before my trip, the national rail train tickets I booked through an agency were suddenly canceled, leaving me in a bind. The concierge immediately arranged replacement tickets for me. I expected to pay a hefty service fee, but they actually secured tickets that were cheaper than what I had originally booked myself. They also provided detailed information on how to access Delhi's tourist attractions, which really helped me enjoy my sightseeing. I'd like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the concierge.
◼︎ **Hotel Surroundings**
There's a 24-hour restaurant within the hotel, and the Aerocity shopping mall (or something similar) is right next door, so finding food is never an issue. Also, perhaps due to recent terror concerns, there are security gates with luggage checks for all vehicles and guests entering the hotel, which made me feel very safe during my stay. The surrounding area also felt reasonably safe, even late at night.
◼︎ **Overall Impression**
If I ever come to Delhi again, I will definitely book this hotel.FromPHP 12,073
Swimming pool
Amazing140 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.FromPHP 11,355
Very Good134 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.94km from downtown
Great stay at Le Meridien New Delhi! Rooms are comfortable, service is attentive, and the location is perfect for exploring the city. Would definitely come back. 🌟FromPHP 15,424
Outstanding128 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|1.32km from downtown
I visit India once a year for both business and leisure, and I usually stay at various super luxury hotels. However, this time, my usual hotel was fully booked, so I ended up at The Imperial. It was the best decision ever! I will never return to my previous hotels. The service, rooms, food, and internet here are all exceptional. The staff is remarkably efficient.
I highly recommend this place!
P.S. The hotel lounge serves better French onion soup than you can find in France!😆FromPHP 27,152
Amazing139 Reviews
Central Delhi New Delhi|3.39km from downtown
What a luxurious stay - they recently renovated but kept the design and interior to exude with a strong Indian charm. Rooms are really clean, and the housekeeping team is very meticulous in ensuring that the room is organized and fresh for your stay. Restaurants within the hotel are of great quality as well - one of the best Asian/ Chinese food I’ve had in Delhi.FromPHP 20,124
Very Good63 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.25km from downtown
I was truly satisfied with my stay at Hari Piorko. The accommodation fee was reasonable, the room was spacious, and the bed was very comfortable, allowing me to sleep soundly and recover from my fatigue. There was no noise at all; although the hotel faces a main street, my room was at the back, so it was quiet. The staff at Shigeta Travel were incredibly helpful, assisting with everything from arranging a SIM card to exchanging currency in Japanese and offering local advice, which made my trip to India enjoyable and worry-free. The hotel reception staff were also kind and welcoming, making me feel the warmth of the Indian people. I didn't opt for breakfast, but 24-hour room service and breakfast options were available. I only ordered toast and lassi, which was very convenient. I highly recommend this hotel to Japanese travelers looking to stay in Main Bazaar and seeking cleanliness comparable to a Japanese business hotel.
When I first saw Main Bazaar on YouTube, I was surprised by the powerful auto-rickshaws, bikes, and car horns. But seeing it in person, the energy was more than ten times greater, a place where the vitality of New Delhi is condensed. On my way to the hotel, nearly 20 Indians spoke to me, and I gave up trying to come from New Delhi Station. For those planning to come from New Delhi Metro Station, please be aware. Although it requires a transfer, I recommend coming to this hotel from the Ramakrishna Ashram Marg station on the Blue Line.FromPHP 1,158
Breakfast
Very Good99 Reviews
South Delhi New Delhi|12.08km from downtown
With ITC you cannot go wrong. Always a great experience staying at any ITC properties for their hospitality, quality of room, staff, amenities etc…FromPHP 9,124
11 Reviews
Pahar Ganj New Delhi|1.29km from downtown
Near New Delhi Station, it’s better than a normal hotel.FromPHP 3,016
26 Reviews
Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport Area New Delhi|13.11km from downtown
Location convenient and budget stay, food is niceFromPHP 2,212
Very Good46 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 ก่อนเดินทางต่อFromPHP 1,867
Good99 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... FromPHP 3,179
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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