The India e-Arrival Card processing time is near-instant. Unlike the Indian eVisa, the Su-Swagatam registration requires no government review. Once you submit, registration is processed immediately and you receive a confirmation email within minutes.
The 72-Hour Window
- Opens: 72 hours (3 days) before your scheduled arrival in India
- Closes: At the time of arrival (aim to complete well before boarding)
You cannot submit the form more than 72 hours before your arrival. The system will reject earlier submissions.
When Should You Apply?
- Ideal: As soon as the 72-hour window opens
- Good: 24-48 hours before departure
- Minimum: A few hours before check-in
- Avoid: Waiting until you are at the airport
Confirmation Email Timing
Confirmation usually arrives within 1-5 minutes. If not received:
- Check spam/junk folder
- Verify the email address you entered
- Try submitting again with a corrected email
- See our troubleshooting guide
Does the e-Arrival Card Expire?
It is single-use per trip. If your flight changes, submit a new e-Arrival Card with the updated arrival date. Since it is free and instant, resubmitting is no burden.
Comparison: e-Arrival Card vs eVisa
| Document | Processing Time | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| India e-Arrival Card | Instant (minutes) | Free |
| Indian Tourist eVisa | 72 hours – 4 business days | Paid |
| Indian Paper Visa | 5-15 business days | Paid |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does processing take?
Submission is near-instant. You receive a confirmation email within minutes. No government review is required.
Can I apply more than 72 hours in advance?
No. The portal only accepts submissions within the 72-hour window before your arrival date.
What if my flight is delayed?
If your arrival date changes significantly, submit a new e-Arrival Card with the correct date. Resubmission is free and instant.