The Return of a Key Travel Document
For anyone travelling to India from an international location, the Air Suvidha Self-Declaration Form (SDF) is once again a non-negotiable part of the journey. Initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the form has been made mandatory again. According
to a travel advisory from the Directorate General of Health Services (Dte. GHS) in June 2026, the requirement was reinstated in response to an ongoing Ebola disease outbreak. The Bureau of Immigration has emphasised that the rule applies to all international arrivals, including Indian passport holders, Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, and foreign nationals, with no exceptions. The primary purpose of the form is to collect health details and travel history to monitor public health and allow authorities to identify and assist passengers who might need medical assessment upon arrival.
Who Needs to Fill the Form?
The mandate is universal for all passengers arriving in India by air, regardless of their nationality or recent travel history. This includes tourists, business travellers, foreign nationals, OCI cardholders, and even Indian citizens returning from abroad. The Bureau of Immigration has been clear in its communication, stating the form 'is not optional'. Even if you have not travelled to a country directly affected by the Ebola outbreak, you are still required to complete the declaration. The government has designed the system to ensure every person entering the country provides their details for comprehensive health screening and surveillance protocols.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Submission
The process is entirely digital and free of cost. Travellers must fill out the form on the official Air Suvidha portal (airsuvidha.civilaviation.gov.in) before their journey. It is recommended to complete it during web check-in to avoid any last-minute issues. The form can be filled up to 72 hours before your arrival in India. You will need several pieces of information handy: your passport details, flight number, address of your stay in India, and a 21-day travel history. The form requires an OTP verification, so a working mobile number and email address are essential. After successful submission, you will receive an acknowledgement with a registration number or QR code, which must be downloaded and kept ready for presentation to health and immigration officials upon landing.
What Happens Upon Arrival?
Having your Air Suvidha acknowledgement ready is key to a smooth airport experience. Upon arrival, you may need to present the confirmation at the International Travel Health Desk. Based on the information provided, an Airport Port Health Officer may decide if any additional screening is necessary. Arriving without a completed form is strongly discouraged as it will lead to delays. In such cases, you will be directed by airport staff to the health desk to complete the formalities, taking up valuable time after a long flight. It is important to note that the Air Suvidha form is a separate requirement from an Indian visa; both are necessary for entry. By complying with this health declaration, travellers contribute to the safety and efficiency of public health monitoring across the country.
