Many travellers confuse the India e-Arrival Card with the Indian eVisa. They are two completely different things, and you need both if you are flying to India on an eVisa.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | India e-Arrival Card | India eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Arrival registration (replaces paper form) | Grants permission to enter India |
| Cost | Free | Paid (varies by nationality/type) |
| Processing | Instant (minutes) | 72 hours – 4 business days |
| When to apply | Within 72 hours before arrival | At least 4-7 days before travel |
| Who needs it | All foreign nationals + OCI cardholders | Most foreign nationals (not OCI) |
| Portal | indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival | indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa |
| Mandatory from | 1 April 2026 | Required to enter India (all time) |
What Is the India e-Arrival Card?
A mandatory digital arrival form replacing the paper Disembarkation Card. It collects your travel information and submits it to Indian authorities before you land. It does not grant permission to enter India. Learn more: What Is the India e-Arrival Card?
What Is the India eVisa?
An electronic travel authorisation that grants permission to enter India. Without a valid visa or OCI card, you cannot enter the country regardless of whether you completed the e-Arrival Card.
Do You Need Both?
Yes – if you are a foreign national (not OCI):
- Indian eVisa – apply weeks/days before travel (grants entry permission)
- India e-Arrival Card – complete within 72 hours before arrival (mandatory registration)
OCI cardholders do not need an eVisa but still need the e-Arrival Card since October 2025.
Which Should You Apply for First?
Always apply for your Indian eVisa first – processing takes days. The e-Arrival Card can only be completed within 72 hours of arrival:
- Apply for Indian eVisa (several weeks before travel)
- Receive eVisa approval
- Within 72 hours of departure, complete India e-Arrival Card
- Travel to India with both documents ready
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the India e-Arrival Card the same as the eVisa?
No. They are completely different. The eVisa grants permission to enter India and has a fee. The e-Arrival Card is a free arrival registration form. You need both.
Can I travel to India with just the e-Arrival Card?
No. You must have a valid Indian visa or OCI card. The e-Arrival Card alone does not grant entry.
If I have an OCI card, do I need an eVisa?
No. OCI cardholders do not need an eVisa. But they must complete the e-Arrival Card since 4 October 2025.