India Arrival Card 2026: How to Fill, Requirements & Latest Updates

By Leona

April 6, 2026

Travelling from Singapore to India? One of the key entry requirements you’ll need to be aware of upon arrival is the India Arrival Card.

Although it is a simple document, it is an essential part of the immigration process that every foreign visitor must complete before entering the country.

This form helps Indian authorities record traveler details and ensure a smooth and efficient entry process at the airport.

This guide is specially created for Singaporean travelers, providing all the important information you need to complete the India Arrival Card correctly and avoid any delays.

With the right preparation, you can enjoy a hassle-free arrival and start your journey in India smoothly.

What is the India Arrival Card?

The India Arrival Card is an official immigration form that collects basic traveler information such as personal details, passport data, travel purpose, and address in India.

It helps immigration authorities process entry efficiently and maintain accurate visitor records.

India is moving toward a fully digital arrival system, making the process faster and more convenient for travelers.

Who Needs to Fill the Arrival Card?

Tourists Arrive India

All foreign nationals entering India are required to complete the arrival card, including:

Tourists
Business travelers
Students
OCI card holders (from April 2026 rule update)

How to Complete the e-Arrival Card

The process is simple and fully digital:

For Singaporean travellers, the card is usually handed out by airline staff during your flight to India or made available at the immigration counters upon arrival.

Accuracy matters for filling out the arrival card. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

📌 Section	📝 Details
Personal Details	Full name (as in passport), date of birth, phone number, etc.
Passport Information	Passport number and related passport details
Flight Details	Flight number and date of arrival in India
Address in India	Full address of hotel, accommodation, or host in India
Countries Visited	List of countries visited in the last six days
Signature	Signature confirming all information provided is correct

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India e-Visa vs India Arrival Card

Source: India Visa Online

Although both are part of the entry process, the India e-Visa and the India Arrival Card serve very different purposes.

Item	India e-Visa	India Arrival Card
Purpose	Official travel authorisation required for entry into India	Immigration and customs declaration form
Type	Electronic visa (pre-approved before travel)	Paper or digital arrival declaration
Application	Apply online via India Visa Online before departure	Completed on the plane or upon arrival
When to complete	Before flying to India	During flight or at immigration
Requirement	Mandatory for most foreign travellers (unless exempt like OCI/PIO holders)	Mandatory for all arriving passengers
Purpose at immigration	Grants permission to enter the country	Used for record-keeping and customs processing
Result	Approval required before boarding	Submitted upon arrival, no approval needed

👉In short: The e-Visa grants you permission to travel to India, while the arrival card records your entry details at the border. You’ll need both to clear immigration smoothly.

Latest Update Arrival Card

From April 1, 2026, all passengers, including OCI holders, must complete a digital e-Arrival Card before or upon arrival in India.

Must be filled via the Bureau of Immigration website or Su-Swagatam app
A QR code will be generated after submission
The QR code must be shown at immigration for verification

This new system replaces traditional paper arrival cards in most airports.

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Long Term India Visa

If you are travelling to India on a visa valid for more than 180 days, you are required to register with the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival.

This registration is separate from the arrival card and is mandatory under Indian immigration law.

Examples of travellers who must register include:

Foreign nationals, staying in India on long-term visas.
Holders of five-year multiple-entry visas.
Any visitor whose visa explicitly requires registration.

Failure to register within the required time frame may result in penalties or difficulties when leaving or re-entering India.

To avoid issues, it is best to complete the registration as soon as possible after arrival.

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India Entry Requirements for Singaporeans

Singaporean travellers must meet a few essential requirements before entering India:

📌 Requirement	📝 Details
Valid Passport	Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India
Visa	Most travellers need a valid India e-Visa. Ensure the visa type matches your purpose of visit (tourism, business, or study)
Arrival Card	All foreign visitors, including Singaporeans, must complete the paper India Arrival Card before presenting themselves at immigration
Health & Safety	Stay updated on any vaccination requirements or health advisories before travel
Customs Regulations	Be aware of restricted or prohibited items in India to avoid fines or confiscation

Special Note for Singapore Travelers

If you are traveling from Singapore to India, make sure you complete the e-Arrival Card in advance.

Singaporean travelers frequently benefit from the e-Visa system, but the arrival card is still mandatory for smooth immigration clearance.

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Final Thoughts

The India Arrival Card system is designed to make entry into the country more efficient and secure.

With the introduction of the digital e-Arrival Card in 2026, the process is now faster and more convenient than ever before.

By completing it correctly, travelers can enjoy a smooth arrival and focus on exploring India’s rich culture, history, and attractions.

FAQs About India Arrival Card

When should I fill in the card?
The card is usually handed out by airline staff during your flight or is available at immigration counters on arrival. It must be completed before you reach the immigration officer.
Do Singaporean travellers need to fill it out?
Yes. All foreign visitors, including Singaporeans, are required to complete the India Arrival Card upon arrival.
What happens if I make a mistake on the card?
Minor errors may be corrected by immigration officers, but significant mistakes can cause delays. Always double-check your details before submission.
Is the Arrival Card the same as a visa?
No. The Arrival Card is not a visa. You still need a valid India e-Visa or regular visa to enter the country. The card is only for recording your entry details.
Can I complete the Arrival Card online?
For paper arrival cards, no. You must fill it in by hand either on the plane or at the airport.

Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.

Leona

Traveller, Writer, Cat Lover, Sea Lover

Always on the hunt for smart travel! I love exploring new places, testing out travel products, and finding little hacks that make every trip smoother.

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