e-Arrival Card Submitted but Immigration Officer Never Asked for It

My family arrived in Mumbai from Canada about two weeks ago. None of us were asked to show the e-Arrival Card confirmation, even though we had separate QR codes saved on our phones.

The officer processed our passports, confirmed our visa details, and asked where we would be staying. That was it.

Based on our trip and what I've read from other travelers, it seems fairly common that some officers don't ask to see the QR code. I still recommend downloading the confirmation before your flight because it's better to have it available if someone does request it.

I flew into Chennai from Singapore last month and had a different experience. The immigration officer asked whether I had completed the e-Arrival Card and then briefly looked at the QR code on my phone before continuing with the passport check.

It only took a few seconds, but they definitely wanted to see it in my case. That's why I wouldn't assume it will never be requested. Even if many travelers aren't asked, it's still a good idea to have the confirmation ready.

I had almost the same experience at Delhi Airport after arriving from the UK. I completed the e-Arrival Card a couple of days before departure and had both the QR code and a printed copy ready.

When I reached immigration, the officer only scanned my passport and checked my e-Visa. I wasn't asked for the QR code or the confirmation email. Everything was completed in just a few minutes.

My guess is that they could already see the information electronically, although I don't know exactly how their system works. I still think it's worth completing the e-Arrival Card and carrying the confirmation because another officer or airport might handle things differently.