India remains one of the most popular destinations for travelers from the United States and the United Kingdom — whether it’s for exploring the country’s rich culture, visiting family, studying, or attending business meetings.
But starting 1 October 2025, there’s an important new rule:
👉 US and UK passport holders must submit the e-Arrival Card before entering India.
Below is your step-by-step travel checklist to ensure a smooth journey.
Table of Contents
✅ 1. Check Passport Validity
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in India.
- Ensure it has at least two blank pages for visa stamps and immigration markings.
- If your passport is nearing expiration, renew it before applying for a visa or booking flights.
✅ 2. Apply for the Correct Indian Visa
Even with the new e-Arrival Card, you still need a valid visa to enter India.
- Tourist Visa / e-Visa – for sightseeing, family visits, short stays.
- Business Visa – for meetings, events, or trade.
- Student or Employment Visa – for study or work purposes.
- Apply only through official Indian government sites (avoid third-party agents).
🕐 Processing Time: Usually 3–5 business days for an e-Visa, but apply early to avoid delays.
✅ 3. Submit the e-Arrival Card (Mandatory)
This is the new key requirement for 2025.
📌 What is it?
An online arrival form that replaces the paper disembarkation card.
📆 When to Submit
Within 72 hours before your flight to India.
🌐 Where to Submit
- Indian Visa Online Portal (official)
- Su-Swagatam App – the official immigration mobile app.
📄 Information You’ll Need
- Passport number and expiry date
- Flight details and arrival airport
- Accommodation address in India
- Purpose of visit
- Recent travel history (last 30 days)
💡 Tip: Save your confirmation (PDF / screenshot / print). You’ll need it at immigration.
✅ 4. Check OCI Card Status (if applicable)
If you’re an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) holder with a US or UK passport:
➡️ You must also submit the e-Arrival Card before traveling.
Make sure your OCI card details match your passport. If you’ve renewed your passport recently, carry both the old and new passports.
✅ 5. Book Flights & Accommodation Wisely
- Use airlines that operate direct or one-stop flights from the US / UK to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
- Keep copies of hotel bookings or host addresses — this is required for both your visa and e-Arrival Card.
- If staying with family or friends, have their contact number and full address ready for verification.
✅ 6. Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)
- Buy travel and health insurance that covers:
- Medical emergencies
- Trip cancellations or delays
- Lost baggage or documents
- India requires proof of funds and return plans for some visa types, so having insurance strengthens your case at immigration.
✅ 7. Vaccinations & Health Requirements
- Although no mandatory vaccines for most travelers, it’s advised to be up-to-date on:
- Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid)
- COVID-19 (if required by airlines or connecting countries)
- Carry a basic first-aid kit and prescription medications with original labels.
✅ 8. Currency & Payments
- India’s official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR).
- You can exchange USD / GBP at authorized forex counters or withdraw cash from ATMs upon arrival.
- Digital payments (UPI, Google Pay, Paytm) are widely accepted — consider getting a multi-currency travel card that supports INR.
✅ 9. Pack Smartly
- Dress modestly and according to local climate — India’s weather can vary from hot and humid to cool in northern regions.
- Carry universal plug adapters (India uses Type C, D, M sockets).
- Bring printed copies of:
- Passport & Visa
- Flight tickets
- e-Arrival Card confirmation
- Hotel booking or local contact info
✅ 10. Arrival at the Indian Airport
When you land in India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, etc.):
- Follow “Foreign Nationals / e-Visa” lane at immigration.
- Present:
- Passport
- Valid Visa or OCI card
- e-Arrival Card confirmation
- Officials may verify your accommodation details or return ticket.
💡 With pre-submitted e-Arrival information, the entire entry process should be faster and smoother.
✅ 11. During Your Stay
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa; keep originals in a safe place.
- Respect local laws, customs, and cultural norms.
- Register with the US Embassy in New Delhi or British High Commission if staying for an extended period.
- Keep emergency contacts handy:
- 112 – All-India emergency helpline
- US Embassy: +91-11-2419-8000
- British High Commission: +91-11-2419-2100
✅ 12. Before Leaving India
- Double-check your departure date — overstaying your visa may lead to fines or travel bans.
- Keep your boarding pass and passport handy for exit immigration.
- If you plan to return to India soon, remember to update your e-Arrival Card again before your next trip.
🧭 Quick Summary: The “Big Three” Rules for 2025
- Visa: Apply online or through an Indian mission.
- e-Arrival Card: Mandatory for all US & UK travelers — submit within 72 hours before arrival.
- OCI Holders: Must also comply with the new e-Arrival process.
🌏 Pro Tip for Frequent Travelers
If you travel to India often, create an account on the Su-Swagatam App. It securely stores your details for future e-Arrival submissions, saving time on repeat trips.
✉️ Final Reminder
As per India’s latest immigration rule:
US and UK passport holders must submit the e-Arrival Card before entering India.
This digital system will replace paper forms from October 2025 and aims to make your travel experience smoother and faster. So, before you fly, check your visa, submit the e-Arrival form, and carry proof of confirmation — and you’ll breeze through Indian immigration without a hitch.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Reliance on this information is strictly at your own risk. The information presented in this article is based on publicly available sources, official government releases. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reliability, the publication does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions. Readers are advised to verify facts independently before making any decisions.
