What is an Electronic Arrival Card?

Electronic arrival cards, sometimes called e-arrival cards, are a type of digital travel document. e-Arrival cards are not visas. Instead, they provide basic information about travelers entering a country to help speed up immigration processes.

Many countries around the world are making their border controls digital, meaning electronic travel documents are becoming increasingly common.

In this post, you’ll find details on how electronic arrival cards compare to traditional paper forms and key tips on getting the digital documentation you need for international travel.

Digital Arrival Cards Explained

An electronic arrival card is an online form that replaces the traditional paper arrival card often used at border control when you enter a foreign country. To get an electronic arrival card, you must fill out an online form before you travel.

Many nations have introduced digital documents to simplify entry procedures, reduce paperwork, and boost security.

Each country has its own requirements for passenger information, but most request your passport data, basic personal details, and travel itinerary. Some electronic arrival cards include a health or customs declaration.

Benefits of Electronic Arrival Cards

Many travelers now opt to use electronic arrival cards instead of traditional paper forms. Some key advantages of digital arrival cards include:

  • Convenience – You can complete the form online from the comfort of home. It only takes a few minutes if you have your details to hand.
  • Fast processing – By submitting your information in advance, authorities in your destination country can verify your details before you arrive.
  • Streamlined arrival process — In most cases, your completed electronic arrival card comes with a QR code. It only takes a few seconds to scan on arrival.
  • Improved security — Digitalized immigration controls help to centralize information about passengers and increase safety at border crossings.

If you need to fill out an arrival card, it’s essential to check the requirements in your destination country. Some agencies allow you to choose between an electronic or paper form, but others have made the digital form compulsory for all travelers.

Online vs. Paper Arrival Cards

Electronic arrival cards are designed to streamline immigration processes, so travelers who use them often experience a smoother and quicker entry process. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between digital and paper arrival cards:

Electronic Arrival Card Paper Arrival Card
Online On arrival
Before travel During immigration controls
Can be filled out from any location Must be filled out at the airport or border control
Mobile and tablet-friendly application You need your details to hand to complete all sections
Pre-verified details Manual check
Faster process on arrival Potential lines and wait time

Which Countries Require an Digital Arrival Card?

As many nations digitalize their immigration systems, electronic arrival cards are becoming more common. The following countries now have a digital arrivals form:

Other countries:

  • Malaysia — Digital Arrival Card
  • Sri Lanka — Arrival Card

The requirements vary from country to country, so it’s essential to check the rules for arriving passengers at your destination.

How is an electronic arrival card different from a visa?

An electronic arrival card may be a requirement for your destination country. However, it serves a different purpose than a visa. Here’s an overview of the key differences between visas and e-arrival cards:

  • A visa grants you entry to a country based on certain criteria, like holding an eligible passport. It also dictates how long you can stay and what types of activities you can take part in, such as business, or tourism.
  • An electronic arrival card is simply a streamlined way to pass through border controls. Completing the form online allows local immigration authorities to process your details quickly.

Even if you’re visa-exempt, or you hold a visa or electronic travel authorization, you may also need a digital arrival card. This depends on your destination country’s requirements for travelers, so it’s crucial to check what’s needed before you travel.

Tips for Using an Electronic Arrival Card

Applying for a digital arrival card helps to speed up the arrivals process when traveling. Here are some tips on using an e-arrival card for your next trip:

  • Apply in good time – Some countries require you to fill out an arrival card just before you travel. Check the rules for your destination so you can apply at the right time.
  • Take care when completing your form – Double-check all your details before submitting your electronic arrival card. Discrepancies can lead to delays and problems at the border.
  • Keep a copy handy – Once your form has been completed and approved, download or screenshot the confirmation. In some countries, you need to present this on arrival. You could also print a paper copy.
  • Check the other requirements – Make sure you have all other documentation ready for travel, including a visa or travel authorization if needed. Most countries have rules on passport validity, so check that your passport complies.

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