Welcome to India! With proper preparation and this detailed guide, your arrival at New Delhi Airport will be efficient and stress-free.
Arriving at Delhi Airport
Indira Gandhi International Airport operates three main terminals: Terminal 1 serves domestic low-cost airlines, Terminal 2 handles select domestic flights, and Terminal 3 is the primary international terminal. The majority of international travelers arrive at Terminal 3, a spacious, modern facility equipped with air-conditioning and advanced security systems.
Upon landing, follow the clearly marked "ARRIVALS" signage throughout the airport. International passengers should take escalators or travelators downstairs to reach the immigration area. Airport staff are available to assist if you need directions.
Mandatory E-Arrival Card
All foreign nationals and OCI cardholders must complete an electronic arrival form before immigration. Fill E-Arrival card for Indian visas up to 72 hours before your flight. Required information includes passport number, nationality, purpose of visit, flight details, and accommodation address in India. You can add up to 5 family members on one form. Indian passport holders are exempt.
Understanding Immigration Zones
Immigration is the first official step after landing. Delhi Airport has organized immigration into three distinct zones:
Zone 1 – Exclusively for Indian Passport Holders
Zone 2 – Dedicated E-Visa Counters (all foreign nationals with electronic visas)
Zone 3 – Foreign Passport Holders with traditional paper visas
Critical for E-Visa Holders: Look for purple floor markings and signage directing you to Zone 2, typically located further down the immigration hall. Do not join queues at general "Foreign Nationals" counters as you'll be redirected.
Diplomatic passport holders have separate counters with expedited processing.
OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cardholders must complete the e-arrival form online and proceed through designated channels with their OCI card and passport.
Immigration Clearance Process
At the e-visa counter, present:
- Valid passport (without cover for easy scanning)
- Boarding pass (paper version mandatory)
- E-visa approval confirmation
- E-arrival card confirmation
First-time visitors: Biometric registration is mandatory, including facial recognition and fingerprint capture. This can be done at self-service kiosks near arrival piers or at the immigration counter, taking just 2-3 minutes.
Visa on Arrival(VOA): Passengers from eligible countries(Japan, South Korea, and the UAE) should proceed past the e-visa section to dedicated VOA counters for payment and document verification.
Just remember: E-Visa entry is only allowed through designated airports. Always carry both printed and digital copies of your ETA. Make sure your travel purpose matches your visa category.
IVC Visas also assists nationals of Japan, France, Sri Lanka and other 160 eligible nationalities with e-visa services, making it convenient to resolve visa-related concerns before travelling to India.
Baggage Claim Area
After clearing immigration, follow signs to baggage reclaim. Check the flight information displays to locate your carousel number. Collect all checked luggage, including tagged items like strollers, before proceeding to customs.
Customs Declaration and Clearance
Delhi Airport operates a two-channel system:
- Green Channel – Use if you have nothing to declare
- Red Channel – Mandatory for items requiring declaration: gold, electronics exceeding limits, currency above USD 10,000, or commercial goods
Non-declaration can result in confiscation, heavy fines, or legal penalties.
Timeline Expectations:
During peak hours, it takes 60-90 minutes from landing to airport exit, factoring in immigration queues and baggage claim times.
Arrival Hall - Essential Services for Foreign Travelers
✅Getting a SIM Card
After exiting customs, you'll find SIM card counters in the arrivals hall.
Airport Options: Airtel, Jio, and Vi (Vodafone Idea) have kiosks available. You'll need:
- Original passport
- Valid visa or e-visa confirmation
- Passport-sized photo (they may take a digital photo)
- Hotel booking confirmation (address proof)
- Cash in INR (foreign cards may not be accepted)
Activation: SIM cards typically activate within 2-24 hours after purchase. Tourist plans range from ₹200-500 and include data, calling, and SMS for 28-84 days. The SIM card's validity is generally tied to the duration of your visa.
Major Providers in India:
- Airtel: Excellent nationwide coverage, reliable 4G/5G network
- Jio (Reliance): Affordable rates, high-speed data, widespread coverage
- Vi (Vodafone Idea): Good urban coverage, competitive pricing
Travel abroad with unlimited data: Airtel's International Roaming (IR) service provides seamless connectivity across 184+ countries, with packs that activate automatically upon landing. Key support includes a 24x7 helpline and management at +91-99100-99100 (toll-free).
✅Internet & Calling:
India has no restrictions on internet access or Wi-Fi calling. Most providers offer unlimited data plans with daily limits (1-2 GB/day at high speed). WhatsApp, video calls, and VoIP services work without restrictions.
You can consider purchasing an e SIM online before traveling for immediate connectivity upon arrival, avoiding airport queues.
✅Currency Exchange
Multiple 24/7 currency exchange counters operate in the arrivals area. For better rates, compare counters or use ATMs. Major banks and authorized forex dealers provide competitive INR conversion rates and are available in Connaught Place, Janakpuri, Malviya Nagar & Barakhamba Road. It's advisable to exchange a moderate amount at the airport and use ATMs in the city for better rates. You may contact Orient Exchange & Financial Services (P) Ltd, Click Forex Pvt. Ltd. and many more.
✅Booking Transportation - Cabs and Taxis
In the arrivals lobby, you'll find authorized transportation services.
Always use official pre-paid taxi booths or authorized app-based services like Uber and Ola.
Avoid private operators or touts who approach you in the terminal, as they may overcharge or be unsafe. Pre-paid taxi counters offer transparent pricing and registered drivers.
Essential Information for Foreign Travelers
Language in Delhi
Delhiites generally speak Hindi, but English is also widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, airports, and among educated residents. Most signage is bilingual (Hindi and English). You'll find it easy to navigate Delhi with English alone.
Digital Payments, Internet & Navigation
India boasts an advanced digital payment ecosystem. With an activated SIM card, travelers can utilize numerous apps for navigation, hotel bookings, communication, and food delivery services. Airport-wide complimentary Wi-Fi ensures continuous connectivity during the SIM activation period. India's modern digital framework supports reliable app-based services, including mapping applications, cab-booking platforms, and mobile wallets, creating a hassle-free experience for international travelers.
Emergency Helpline Numbers
Save these important contact numbers:
National Emergency Number: 112 (connects to police, ambulance, fire)
Police: 100 or 112
Ambulance: 102 or 108
Fire: 101
Women in Distress: 1091
Women Helpline (Domestic Abuse): 181
Tourist Helpline: 1363 (24/7 assistance for tourists)
Foreigners Safety & Assistance: Contact nearest police station or dial 112
FRRO Delhi Office
The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) handles visa extensions, registration requirements, and immigration matters. Foreigners staying longer than 180 days or on certain visa types must register with FRRO within 14 days of arrival. Consider knowing these details:
Address: East Block VIII, Level II, Sector 1, R.K. Puram, New Delhi – 110066
Phone: +91-11-26711384, 26711443, 26713851
Jurisdiction: Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand
Foreign Embassies and Consulates in Delhi
Delhi hosts over 159 embassies and high commissions, primarily located in Chanakyapuri, Vasant Vihar, and Shanti Niketan diplomatic enclaves.
To locate your country's embassy or consulate: Visit the official Indian Government portal at the Ministry of External Affairs website. These trusted government sources provide complete contact details, addresses, and services for all diplomatic missions in India.
In emergencies, contact your embassy immediately for consular assistance, passport issues, or legal support.
For more info you may also visit Delhi Airport official website.
Disclaimer: IVC Visas is an independent visa service provider. We assist with application preparation and submission to official government portals. Final visa approval decisions are made solely by Indian immigration authorities. All information is based on current regulations as prescribed by the Government of India, which may change. Always verify the latest requirements before travel.