Travelling from Singapore to India? One of the first things you’ll need to deal with upon arrival is the India Arrival Card. It’s simple but essential. Every foreign visitor must complete before entering the country. This guide is written especially for Singaporean visitors, check it out to ensure a smooth entry into India.
What Is India Arrival Card?
The India Arrival Card is a paper form that all foreign travellers must complete when entering India. It records essential details such as your personal information, passport number, flight details, and address in India. Immigration officers use the card to verify your entry and keep a record of visitors.
It’s a quick but important step, and filling it in accurately helps you move smoothly through border control.
How to Complete the India Arrival Card?
Source: backpackers - Franky_Hung
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:
- Personal details – Write your full name (as shown in your passport), date of birth, phone number, etc.
- Passport information – Include your passport number.
- Flight details – Record your flight number and date of arrival in India.
- Address in India – Provide the full address of your hotel, accommodation, or host.
- Countries visited – Track the countries you visited in the last six days.
- Signature – Sign the card to confirm that all the information provided is correct.
Tips for Singaporean Travellers
- Use block letters (capital letters) for clarity.
- Double-check your passport number and dates to avoid mistakes.
- Keep the card handy with your passport; you’ll need to hand it to immigration officers upon arrival.
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.
India e-Visa
This is your official travel authorisation, which must be applied for and approved before you fly to India. Singaporean travellers can apply online through India Visa Online, upload supporting documents, and once approved, carry the e-Visa for immigration checks. Without a valid visa (or OCI/PIO card), you cannot enter India.
India Arrival Card
This is a paper form that you complete on the plane or upon arrival in India. It is not a visa, but rather a record for immigration and customs purposes.
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.
Special Cases: Long-Term Visa Holders
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.
India Entry Requirements for Singaporeans
Singaporean travellers must meet a few essential requirements before entering India:
- Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
- Visa – Most travellers need a valid India e-Visa. Make sure your visa type matches the purpose of your 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 – Keep up to date with any vaccination requirements or health advisories.
- Customs Regulations – Be aware of items restricted or prohibited in India to avoid fines or confiscation.
Key Steps to Ensure Smooth Entry into India
Complete the Arrival Card Accurately – Fill in the paper India Arrival Card clearly and double-check all details. Mistakes can cause delays at immigration.
Carry All Travel Documents – Keep your passport, visa, and arrival card together for easy access at immigration.
Plan Your Accommodation in Advance – Ensure you have the full address of your hotel or host, as this is required on the arrival card.
Know the Local Customs and Laws – Familiarise yourself with basic cultural etiquette and prohibited items to avoid any issues.
Stay Connected – Consider a local India eSIM or SIM card or roaming plan to stay reachable and navigate easily.
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.