India Makes Arrival Card Mandatory for All Foreign Nationals
India now requires all foreign nationals to fill an arrival card, even with visa-on-arrival. Learn the rule and get your card for ₹590.
India Arrival Card Mandatory
If you’re planning to travel to India soon, there’s an important new rule from the Govement of India that all travelers must follow.
The Arrival Card — previously optional for some — has now become mandatory for all foreign nationals. Whether you’re traveling on a visa-on-arrival, e-visa, or pre-approved visa, you must submit a completed Arrival Card to enter India.
In this post, we’ll explain what this means, who it applies to, and how you can easily get your India Arrival Card for just ₹590, ready before your flight.
The Arrival Card is a short immigration form that collects key traveler details such as:
- Full name, nationality, and passport number
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, medical, etc.)
- Flight information and address in India
It helps immigration officials verify travel details, maintain security records, and ensure smooth entry for all visitors.
Earlier, some travelers — especially those using visa-on-arrival — didn’t need to fill this document. But with the latest update, every non-Indian passport holder must complete it before entering India.
New Update: Mandatory for All Foreign Nationals
According to the latest govement notification, the Arrival Card is now required for every traveler with a foreign nationality, regardless of their visa type.
This includes:
✅ Travelers with Visa on Arrival
✅ Visitors with E-Visa approvals
✅ Dual citizens traveling on a non-Indian passport
Even if your visa has already been approved online, you’ll still need to present a filled Arrival Card at the immigration counter.
Without it, officials may delay your entry or ask you to complete the process manually at the airport — which can be time-consuming and stressful after a long flight.
Who Must Submit an Arrival Card?
The rule applies to all foreign nationals, including:
- Tourists from any country
- Business and conference visitors
- Students and medical travelers
- People visiting friends or family
- Dual citizens using non-Indian passports
So whether you’re from the US, UK, UAE, Canada, or Australia, you must now complete this mandatory form to enter India.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it required even if I have an e-Visa or Visa on Arrival?
Yes. Every foreign traveler — regardless of visa type — must submit the Arrival Card.
2. Can I fill it online before traveling?
Yes, you can easily get it prepared online in advance to save time at the airport.
3. What happens if I don’t have it on arrival?
You’ll be required to fill it manually at the counter, which can cause delays or even temporary denial of entry.
4. How much does it cost?
We provide verified Arrival Cards for all nationalities at ₹590, including assistance and processing.
