India simplifies entry for GCC travellers with new e-card

India has introduced a new e-arrival card system designed to cut airport immigration wait times, a change expected to benefit the high number of GCC travellers to the country.

 

Effective 1 October, overseas visitors are required to complete an online form between 72 and 24 hours before boarding their flight. 

 

The form, which is free of charge, asks for passport details, nationality, purpose of visit, address in India, length of stay and countries visited in the last six days. No documents need to be uploaded.

 

Authorities say a digital copy of the e-arrival Card is sufficient but recommend visitors have a printed version “for ease during inspection”.

 

The e-arrival card replaces the physical disembarkation card previously filled in upon arrival. 

 

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Passengers who do not submit the e-arrival card in advance may face longer waiting times at immigration, Emirates Airlines has advised.

 

India’s Bureau of Immigration says the switch to digital aims “to streamline immigration clearance and enhance passenger convenience” by reducing congestion at entry points.

 

For GCC visitors, accustomed to high-tech travel processes at home, the system offers faster clearance and improved accuracy of traveller information, strengthening India’s appeal as a destination.

 

More than 200,000 visitors from the GCC travelled to India in 2024, according to data from India’s Ministry of Tourism.

 

For more information, visit indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival