Keeping up with travel news isn’t always easy—important updates can slip through the cracks, especially when it comes to entry requirements. That’s why we’re bringing back this recent development that could affect your upcoming trip to India.
Going Digital Like Everyone Else
We’ve all seen it happening: paper documents are gradually disappearing in favor of digital alternatives, and entry formalities are no exception. More and more countries are making the switch, and India has just joined the club by replacing its traditional paper arrival form with a new digital system called the e-Arrival Card.
Like the old paper form, this new digital format allows immigration services to collect passenger information (purpose of visit, local address, etc.). But thanks to digitalization, authorities say it will “streamline the immigration process and prevent delays at checkpoints.” And just like other countries using similar systems, the Indian administration has set up a dedicated website where travelers can complete the process up to 5 days before arriving in India.
What Americans Need to Know About Indian Visas
American travelers (along with most other nationalities) must obtain a tourist visa to visit India for leisure purposes. Without exception, anyone arriving in India without a valid visa or e-Visa will be automatically denied entry by Indian authorities.
Since July 2025, applications for Indian tourist visas—aside from online e-Visa requests—must be submitted directly and exclusively through the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C. or relevant consulates.
As for the e-Visa, it allows you to exit India through land borders, but you cannot re-enter the country the same way. This digital format only permits entries through the country’s main seaports (3) and airports (around 30).
No tourist visa can be extended once you’re in the country, nor can it be changed to a visa for a different purpose.
Finally, to qualify for a visa, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your visa’s expiration date and must contain at least three blank pages.
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.
