If you are planning a trip to India, keeping up with entry and immigration requirements is essential for a smooth journey. To streamline airport arrivals and protect public health, the Government of India requires international passengers to complete mandatory digital documentation prior to boarding their flights.
To avoid delays at check-in or upon landing, here is a complete breakdown of the two key online forms travellers need to complete before departure.
1. Air Suvidha Health Self-Declaration Form
The Air Suvidha form is a mandatory health self-declaration required by India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
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Who Must Fill It: All international passengers arriving in India by air, including Indian passport holders, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, and foreign tourists or business travellers.
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When to Complete: Fill out the online declaration within 24 to 72 hours prior to scheduled departure to India.
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Cost: 100% Free (be cautious of third-party scam websites charging fees).
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Official Portal: Air Suvidha – Government of India
Key Tip: Once submitted, keep a digital copy or printed receipt of the confirmation on your phone. Airlines may verify your Air Suvidha acknowledgement at the boarding gate, and immigration/health officers will inspect it upon arrival.
2. Indian e-Arrival Card
The e-Arrival Card serves as the digital replacement for the traditional paper disembarkation card handed out on flights. It captures basic arrival details to speed up your clearance at airport immigration counters.
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Who Must Fill It: Foreign passport holders and OCI cardholders entering India. Indian passport holders are exempt.
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When to Complete: Submit the form online within 72 hours before arrival in India.
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Important Note: The e-Arrival Card is not a visa. Foreign nationals must still possess a valid Indian Regular Visa or e-Visa prior to travel.
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Official Portal: Indian e-Arrival Card – Government of India
Checklist Before You Fly
To ensure a seamless airport experience, make sure you have the following ready before heading to the airport:
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Valid Passport & Visa/OCI Card
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Completed Air Suvidha Confirmation Receipt
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Completed e-Arrival Card Confirmation (for non-Indian passport holders)
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Accommodation Address & Travel Itinerary in India
Completing these forms early ensures faster processing at check-in counters and a faster, queue-free transition through immigration when you touch down in India.
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