Emirates has issued a travel advisory to confirm that all non-Indian nationals who are flying to India are now required to complete a digital e-arrival card before boarding. Moreover, the new rule has already come into effect from the 1st of October 2025. However, it is a part of India’s move to digitise its immigration process.
The e-arrival card must be filled out online via the India Bureau of Immigration portal, Indian Visa website, or Su-Swagatam app between 72 hours and 24 hours before departure. However, the service is completely free of charge. Moreover, failure to complete the card may result in longer immigration queues and possible onward travel delays.
Why the e-Arrival Card matters for UAE to India travellers
Indian airports manage millions of visitors yearly, especially during the busy period such as school holidays, Eid, and festive seasons. Hence, the Indian authority aims for the following goals by replacing paper disembarkation forms with a secure digital system:
- Reduce waiting times at immigration counters.
- Eliminate paper forms on board flights.
- Improve the accuracy of passenger information.
- Enhance security through digital verification.
What travellers need to know
All foreign nationals, including those flying from the UAE, are required to give the following information to get this card:
- Passport details and nationality
- Flight number and arrival city
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, study, medical)
- Duration of stay and address in India
- Contact details
- Countries visited in the last six days
After submission, the digital confirmation will be sent to the email address. Remember, you must store it within your phone or carry a print copy for convenience.
Who is exempt?
As we mentioned above, this rule only applies to non-Indian nationals. However, the following citizens will be exempt from this rule:
- Indian nationals
- Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders
Remember, these citizens can continue using the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) launched in June 2024.
Key takeaway for UAE residents
The new e-arrival card ensures a faster, paperless, and hassle-free experience at immigration for frequent travellers between the UAE and India. Moreover, this new card will guide the tourist to save time. In addition, business travelers will get quick access to meetings through this card. Plus, students and families can enjoy a smoother arrival process through this system.
You can visit the official portal of India visa, i.e, www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival for more details.
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