Emirates has issued a new advisory for passengers flying from Dubai to India, reminding all non-Indian nationals that they must now complete an e-Arrival Card before boarding. The rule, effective from October 1, 2025, follows India’s latest immigration update to move towards a fully digital arrival process.
Travellers must fill out the online form between 72 and 24 hours before departure through the Bureau of Immigration (boi.gov.in) or indianvisaonline.gov.in. The form is free and takes only a few minutes to complete.
According to Emirates, passengers who fail to submit the e-Arrival Card may face longer immigration queues or delayed onward travel. The airline also advised passengers to update their contact details on the Manage Your Booking page to receive all notifications related to travel and immigration procedures.
The new digital form replaces paper disembarkation slips and is part of India’s effort to modernise airport procedures and reduce wait times. After submission, travellers receive a confirmation email, which can be saved digitally or printed for convenience.
Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders are exempt from the new requirement and can continue using the Fast Track Immigration–Trusted Traveller Programme.
Officials clarified that the e-Arrival Card does not replace a visa. A valid Indian visa is still required for tourism, business, or study purposes. The change aims to make arrivals faster, safer, and more efficient for foreign travellers entering India.
