India Abandons Paper Forms for Travel

New Delhi, India — April 1, 2023

In short: Foreign nationals and OCI card holders must now complete and submit an e-arrival card online before visiting India.

India Mandates E-Arrival Card for Foreign Visitors

Key Details

• System: The e-arrival card replaces physical disembarkation forms.
• Operational Status: Introduced on April 1, 2023, as part of digitization efforts.
• Eligibility: Mandatory for foreign nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders.
• Clarification: The e-arrival card cannot replace the visa.

What Travel Professionals Should Know

TMCs managing Indian travel itineraries must now ensure their clients complete the e-arrival card process prior to travel. This shift requires updating client communication protocols and potentially integrating e-card submission tools into existing travel management systems. Airport lounge operators should update their client onboarding processes to include e-card verification steps. The new requirement underscores India’s commitment to enhancing digital travel infrastructure, impacting both pre-trip planning and post-arrival compliance for foreign visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the e-arrival card?
An online form that foreign nationals and OCI holders must complete and submit before arrival in India.

Which travel trade segments does this affect?
Travel Management Companies (TMCs), airport lounge operators, and airlines operating to/from India.

When does this take effect?
Effective April 1, 2023.

Reference:Source.