What is the new rule for entering India?

U.S. citizen travelers are now able to travel to India with a valid e-visa (or physical visa from an Indian embassy/consulate) AND a valid e-arrival form. All travelers to India should consult with their airlines to confirm entry requirements at the time of ticket purchase.

What are the new immigration rules for India?

India introduces new e-Arrival Card requirement. Effective 1 October 2025, all foreign nationals entering India are required to apply for an e-Arrival Card within 72 hours prior to arrival, with limited exceptions. The new requirement applies to all foreign nationals, including those holding regular visas and e-visas.

What is the new travel rule in India?

Foreign travellers entering India are now required to complete an e-Arrival Card within 72 hours prior to their arrival, as part of a new digital immigration process introduced on 1 October, 2025.

Can US citizens get an India visa on arrival?

Citizens of 43 countries, including the US, are now able to enter India and obtain a 30 day tourist visa upon arrival at the airport there. The sole purpose of visiting India must include recreation, sight-seeing, a casual visit to meet friends or relative, short duration medical treatment or casual business.

Do Indian citizens need to fill an e-Arrival Card?

It replaces the previous paper-based form that was typically filled out upon arrival or during the flight. The e‑Arrival Card can be submitted either via the official website of the Indian authorities or conveniently through the Visa Su-Swagatam app. Indian citizens are not required to fill out the e‑Arrival Card.

Can OCI Card Holders Be BANNED from Entering India in 2025?

How can I get Indian e-Arrival Card online?

The e-arrival card can be filled out and submitted online through the Indian visa website (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ ), the Indian Bureau of Immigration website (http://boi.gov.in ), and the Indian visa Su-Swagatam mobile app up to 72 hours prior to travel.

Is an Arrival Card still required?

All travellers must submit their SG Arrival Card (SGAC) within three days before arrival. Submission of the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) is free of charge and should only be done via ICA's official channels (ICA's SGAC e-Service or MyICA Mobile app).

How far in advance should I apply for an Indian visa?

Ans- (i) For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival. Such application can be made 120 days in advance from proposed date of travel.

What happens if you arrive in India without a visa?

You must have a visa to visit India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India ( OCI ) cardholder. India has a number of visa categories. Make sure you get the right visa for your travel. You could be refused entry or deported for having the wrong visa.

What is the 45 minute rule?

To check bags or check in at the airport, you must be there a certain amount of time before scheduled departure: Within the U.S. – 45 minutes. To or from destinations outside the U.S. – 60 minutes.

What kind of clothes to wear in India?

* Loose, flowing cotton clothes are ideal. * Kurtahs (tunics), salwar kameez, and long dresses are perfect. * Avoid skimpy or tight western clothes outside touristy areas.

How much cash can I take to India?

As per NRI Foreign Currency Rules in India NRIs can carry up to US $5,000 in cash and US $10,000, including cash, traveler's cheque, etc. Anything above this limit must be declared before the customs department upon arrival. If the cash is in Indian currency, then only up to Rs 25,000 is allowed.

Why is the US Embassy cancelling visa appointments in India?

U.S. consulates across India have begun cancelling and automatically rescheduling H-1B and H-4 visa appointments (often 90 to 120 days later) due to the new online presence and social media vetting rules taking effect Dec. 15, 2025.

How long does an India E visa take?

However, the official Indian Visa Online portal notes that visa processing requires a minimum of three working days and may take longer depending on nationality, verification requirements, and the workload of the issuing Mission or Post.

What is the new immigration Act 2025 in India?

The Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025 came into effect on September 1, 2025, restructuring India's immigration laws, imposing stricter penalties and strengthening reporting and monitoring of foreign nationals. Restructuring of immigration laws.

Do US citizens need a visa for India?

Everything you need to know for American citizens

Travelers need a visa to visit India for Tourism for a maximum stay of 180 days in 1 calendar year. An India eVisa is the fastest and easiest way of obtaining a visa for India because travelers can submit their applications and supporting documents online.

What is the new e Arrival Card for India?

All foreign nationals visiting India are now required to fill out the Disembarkation card (or) e-Arrival card digitally before arrival, with effect from 01 October 2025. The digital form should be completed up to 72 hours before arrival in India.

What documents do I need for an Indian eVisa?

• Scanned Bio Page of the passport showing the Photograph and Details*
• Copy of Business Card.
• Any letter of invitation if applicable from indian parties which wish you conduct the business (optional).
• For Sports Related Activity. Copy of Passport page containing personal particulars *

What is the difference between a visa and an eVisa?

E-Visas (electronic visas) are digital versions of traditional visas obtained through an online application process. They typically require submission of passport information, travel itinerary, and supporting documents. Unlike traditional paper visas stamped in passports, E-Visas are delivered electronically via email.

What is the new visa fee for USA?

The U.S. is introducing a new $250 Visa Integrity Fee for most nonimmigrant visa applicants starting in fiscal year 2026. The fee is paid when a visa is issued, cannot be waived or reduced, and may increase yearly with inflation.

Who needs to fill an arrival card?

All international travellers arriving at major airports like Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), or Montreal (YUL) can submit it. It's optional for now, but may become mandatory in the near future.

Where do I get an arrival card?

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) typically issues Form I-94 electronically.

• If you are traveling by air or sea, a CBP officer will issue you an electronic I-94 at your point of entry during the admission process.
• If you are traveling by land, you can apply for an I-94 in person at your point of entry.

What does ICA stand for?

The International Cooperation Administration (ICA) was established by the U.S. State Department Delegation of Authority 85, from June 30, 1955, pursuant to EO 10610, May 9, 1955. Its predecessor was the Foreign Operations Administration (FOA) founded in 1953.