International travel to India now includes a critical pre-departure step. The Air Suvidha Self-Declaration Form is once again mandatory for all arriving passengers, aimed at strengthening public health screening at all points of entry.
What is the Air Suvidha Form?
The Air Suvidha
form is a digital self-declaration that collects travel and health information from passengers before they arrive in India. Originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the 'Air Suvidha 2.0' portal has been reactivated. Its purpose is to screen international arrivals for potential health risks, allowing authorities to conduct a risk assessment before the passenger lands. The form is mandatory for every international passenger, including Indian citizens, Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, and foreign nationals, regardless of their country of origin. The Bureau of Immigration has stressed that the form is not optional and must be completed by all flyers.
Why is it Mandatory Again?
The Indian government has made the Air Suvidha Self-Declaration Form (SDF) mandatory as a precautionary measure in response to global health alerts. Following the World Health Organization's declaration of the Ebola/Bundibugyo virus outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in May 2026, the Directorate General of Health Services issued a new travel advisory. This digital system helps Airport Health Organisation (APHO) officials and other authorities to efficiently screen passengers, identify those who may require further medical assessment, and ensure a smoother clearance process upon arrival. It is part of India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its border health surveillance.
Information You Need to Have Ready
To ensure a quick and smooth submission process, it's best to gather all necessary information before you start filling out the form. You will need your passport, flight details (including flight number and seat number, if available), and the address of your stay in India. The form also requires you to declare your travel history for the past 21 days. This includes details of any transit stops. Finally, have a valid email address and mobile number handy, as a One-Time Password (OTP) will be sent to verify your contact information before you can submit the declaration.
Step-byStep Guide to Filling the Form
The process is entirely online and can be completed in a few minutes. First, visit the official Air Suvidha portal at airsuvidha.civilaviation.gov.in; be wary of unofficial sites that may charge a fee, as the official form is free. Begin by entering your personal details as they appear on your passport, followed by your flight information, including your first airport of arrival in India. Next, provide your contact details and the address where you will be staying. You will then need to complete the OTP verification sent to your email or mobile number. The form will ask for your travel history over the last 21 days and a health declaration regarding any symptoms. After carefully reviewing all the information for accuracy, consent to the declaration and submit the form.
When to Submit the Form
The form should be filled out before you start your journey to India. While some guidelines mention a window of up to 72 hours before arrival, authorities recommend completing it before you leave for the airport or during web check - in to avoid last - minute issues. For travellers from the UAE, for example, the guidance is to submit it within 24 hours of arrival. The key is to complete it before boarding your flight, as you may be asked to show proof of submission.
What to Expect After Submission
Once you successfully submit the form, you will receive an acknowledgement with a unique reference number, usually via email. You should save a digital copy of this confirmation on your phone or take a screenshot. While a printout is also an option, a digital version is sufficient. This confirmation must be presented to airline staff at check - in or boarding if requested, and to immigration or health officials upon arrival in India. Having this acknowledgement ready will help ensure a hassle - free clearance process. Passengers who arrive without having completed the form may face delays and will be directed to the health desk for assistance.
