Washington, DC, USA: In a significant move to streamline immigration processes, India’s government has announced that all foreign visitors, including Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders, must complete a digital disembarkation form — the E-Arrival Card — before arriving in the country.

The regulation, effective from October 1, 2025, replaces the conventional paper-based disembarkation form with an online version designed to accelerate immigration checks and reduce waiting times at airports.

Travellers can fill out and submit the form up to 72 hours prior to arrival via https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival

 or through the “Indian Visa Su-Swagatam” mobile application. According to officials, the digital system enables pre-screening of passenger information, allowing smoother and faster entry into India.

Although the traditional physical disembarkation card will remain valid during a six-month transition period, authorities strongly encourage international travellers to adopt the digital system immediately to prevent unnecessary delays.

This requirement covers all foreign nationals, including OCI cardholders, while Indian citizens are not affected. Officials also clarified that the E-Arrival Card does not replace a visa — travellers must still possess a valid visa or e-Visa to enter India.

The shift to digital arrival cards is part of a wider government effort to modernise border entry procedures and improve passenger convenience. Launched earlier this year, the Su-Swagatam app now functions as a unified platform for visa services and travel documentation, incorporating the e-Arrival process as well.