India Introduces Digital Disembarkation Card for Foreign Travellers – Effective from 1 October 2025

Travelling to India is about to get simpler, faster, and more convenient. Starting 1 October 2025, all foreign nationals arriving in India will be required to complete the new Digital Disembarkation (D/E) Card. This online arrival form replaces the traditional paper card that passengers used to fill out during flights or at immigration counters.

The move marks a major step forward in India’s efforts to modernise travel formalities, reduce queues, and improve the overall passenger experience at airports.

What is the Digital Disembarkation (D/E) Card?

The Digital Disembarkation Card is a mandatory online form that all non-Indian travellers must complete before entering India. Designed to replace the outdated paper version, it streamlines the arrival process and ensures immigration officers receive traveller information in advance.

• Submission timeline: Travellers must complete the form within 72 hours before departure.

• How to submit: The D/E Card can be filled online via the official portal indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival or through the Indian Visa Su-Swagatam mobile app.

By moving this process online, India is aiming to create a smoother and more efficient system that reduces manual paperwork and speeds up border clearance.

Why Has It Been Introduced?

The introduction of the D/E Card is more than just a paperwork change; it’s part of a wider initiative to make India’s borders smarter and more secure.

• Faster immigration clearance: Passengers can expect reduced queues and quicker processing.

• Enhanced security checks: Authorities gain access to traveller details in advance, making verification more efficient.

• Health and safety monitoring: The form allows for the collection of basic health and travel history to support screening when necessary.

• Sustainability & convenience: By going digital, the need for paper-based forms is eliminated, making travel more seamless for both travellers and officials.

This system benefits both sides: immigration officers receive accurate information earlier, while passengers enjoy shorter waiting times at airports.

Information Required for the D/E Card

The digital form is straightforward and requests information similar to the old paper card. Travellers will need to provide:

• Passport details – number, nationality, validity.

• Visa or e-Visa information – type, reference number, validity.

• Flight details – airline, PNR, and seat number if available.

• Accommodation in India – hotel reservation, host’s address, or hospital details

• Basic health and travel history – recent trips and declarations relevant to health checks.

Once submitted, travellers will receive a preview of their e-Arrival Card. Immigration officers may request to see this digital copy during arrival formalities, so it’s best to keep it accessible.

Who Needs to Complete the D/E Card?

The requirement applies to all foreign nationals entering India, regardless of the purpose of travel, tourism, business, study, medical treatment, or any other reason.

This clear distinction ensures that only non-Indian nationals need to complete the process.

Final Note

From 1 October 2025, the Digital Disembarkation Card will be mandatory for all foreign nationals travelling to India. Completing it within 72 hours before departure will help ensure a smooth, hassle-free arrival experience and faster immigration clearance.

For personalised guidance or more information on the D/E Card process, reach out to Visa Roots, your trusted travel partner for a seamless journey.