India to end paper arrival cards in Delhi from April 2026

March 28, 2026|Joshua

From April 1, 2026, international travellers arriving in Delhi will no longer need to fill out paper arrival cards, as India fully adopts the digital e-Arrival Card system introduced in October 2025 to streamline immigration processes.

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India is moving ahead with digitising border entry procedures, with paper arrival cards set to be discontinued for passengers arriving in Delhi from April 1, 2026. The change follows the rollout of India’s e-Arrival Card system, which was introduced on October 1, 2025 and allows travellers to submit arrival details online before landing.

Delhi International Airport said in a social media post dated March 21 that physical arrival cards will only continue until March 31, 2026. From April 1, 2026, arriving travellers in the Indian capital are expected to use the digital e-Arrival Card instead of completing paper forms.

What is India’s e-Arrival Card?

The e-Arrival Card is a digital arrival information form that travellers can complete in advance of travel. It is designed to reduce manual processing at immigration and streamline entry formalities.

Key points:

It is free of charge.
It does not replace a visa or eVisa. Travellers must still meet India’s normal entry requirements (such as holding a valid visa/eVisa if required).
It is available via the official portal and via the Government of India’s “Indian Visa Su-Swagatam” mobile app.

Who is affected?

Based on the Delhi airport announcement, the immediate operational change applies to:

International travellers arriving in Delhi (DEL) who would otherwise complete a paper arrival card.

Travellers arriving at other Indian airports may see similar changes if adopted locally or nationally, but the announced deadline specifically references implementation for the national capital.

Effective date and transition timeline

Until March 31, 2026: Paper arrival cards remain accepted in Delhi.
From April 1, 2026: Only the e-Arrival Card is expected to be recognised for arrivals in Delhi.

When can travellers complete the form?

The e-Arrival Card can be completed within four days before arrival.

Two processing scenarios apply, depending on when the form is submitted:

More than 72 hours before travel: No QR code presentation is required at immigration control.
Within 72 hours of arrival: Travellers must present the generated QR code at immigration to complete the process.

How to complete the e-Arrival Card

Travellers can submit details using:

The official e-Arrival Card portal (listed under “Apply now” below)
The “Indian Visa Su-Swagatam” app on iOS and Android

Typical information requested on arrival forms may include passport details, flight information, and basic travel and contact information.

Important reminders for entry to India

The e-Arrival Card is an additional step and does not change the underlying entry rules. Travellers should still confirm:

Whether they need a visa or eVisa for their nationality and purpose of travel
Passport validity and any carrier-specific requirements (airlines can enforce document checks at check-in)
Any other arrival conditions communicated by Indian immigration authorities or the arrival airport