Planning a trip to China? Don’t get caught off guard at the border. As of November 20, 2025, China has implemented a new digital arrival card system that every foreign traveler must complete before entering mainland China. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the China Entry Card (also called China Arrival Card or Arrival Form) so you can breeze through immigration with confidence.
—
What Is the China Entry Card?
The China Entry Card (入境卡) is an official immigration form required by the Chinese National Immigration Administration (NIA) for all foreign nationals entering mainland China. It collects essential information including:
- Personal details: Full name, date of birth, nationality
- Passport information: Passport number, issuing country, expiry date
- Travel information: Flight number, port of entry, arrival date
- Accommodation details: Hotel name and address or host/company information
- Purpose of visit: Tourism, business, family visit, study, or transit
Important: The China Entry Card is NOT a visa. It does not replace visa requirements or visa-free entry policies. You must still hold a valid visa or qualify for visa-free entry based on your nationality.
—
Who Needs to Fill Out the China Entry Card?
Most foreign travelers entering mainland China need to complete this form, including:
| Traveler Type | Status |
|---|---|
| Visa-free tourists (30-day policy) | ✅ Required |
| 240-hour transit travelers | ✅ Required |
| L tourist visa holders | ✅ Required |
| M business visa holders | ✅ Required |
| X student visa holders | ✅ Required |
| Family visit visa holders | ✅ Required |
You Are EXEMPT If You:
- Hold a Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of China
- Hold a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong/Macau Residents (non-Chinese citizens)
- Have a group visa or qualify for group visa-free entry
- Are transiting directly within 24 hours without leaving the port’s restricted area
- Enter and exit China on the same cruise ship
- Enter through E-channel (automated gates)
- Are a foreign employee of cross-border transport vehicles
—
How to Fill Out the China Entry Card Online (Recommended)
The best approach is to complete your China Arrival Card online before your trip. Here’s how:
Official Channels (100% Free)
- NIA Website: https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/
- WeChat Mini Program: Search “移民局12367” or “NIA 12367”
- Alipay Mini Program: Search “移民局12367” or “NIA 12367”
- NIA 12367 App: Download from App Store or Google Play
- QR Code: Scan the official arrival card QR code at airports
⚠️ WARNING: The Chinese government has confirmed that fake websites are charging fees for this FREE service. Only use official channels!
—
Step-by-Step Filling Instructions
Step 1: Access the System
Visit https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/ or scan the official QR code. Select your language (English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean available).
Step 2: Upload Passport Photo Page
Take a clear photo of your passport’s data page and upload it. The system will auto-extract your basic information. Always double-check the extracted data!
Step 3: Enter Basic Information
| Field | What to Enter |
|---|---|
| Full Name | As shown on passport (SURNAME, Given Names) |
| Gender | Male / Female |
| Date of Birth | DD/MM/YYYY format |
| Nationality | Your country of citizenship |
| Passport Number | Exactly as on passport |
| Passport Expiry | Check passport validity |
Step 4: Travel Information
| Field | Example |
|---|---|
| Transport Mode | Air / Train / Ship / Foot |
| Flight/Train Number | CA981 |
| Port of Entry | Beijing Daxing International Airport |
| Arrival City | Beijing |
Step 5: Accommodation Details
This is critical! You must provide the complete address of where you’ll stay in China.
| Field | Example |
|---|---|
| Hotel Name | Grand Hyatt Beijing |
| Full Address | No.1 East Chang An Avenue, Dongcheng District, Beijing |
| Contact Phone | Hotel’s phone number |
| Your email address |
💡 Pro Tip: “Beijing Hotel” is NOT enough. You need the complete street address including district.
Step 6: Entry Purpose
Select the purpose that matches your visa or travel reason:
- Tourism – Visa-free or L visa
- Business – M visa
- Family Visit – Q1/Q2 visa
- Study – X1/X2 visa
- Transit – 240-hour transit policy
Step 7: Submit and Save QR Code
- Review all information carefully
- Agree to the declaration
- Click Submit
- SAVE your QR code (screenshot AND email it to yourself)
—
When Should You Fill Out the China Entry Card?
| Timing | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 24-72 hours before arrival | ✅ Recommended – Fastest processing |
| Upon arrival at airport | ⚠️ May cause delays |
| After landing | ❌ Not recommended – Rushed, error-prone |
Best Practice: Complete your China Arrival Card 24-72 hours before departure to avoid queues and potential processing delays.
—
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong entry port name | Form rejected | Check official airport/city names |
| Vague accommodation address | Form rejected | Provide complete street address |
| Passport details mismatch | Immigration issues | Verify all numbers EXACTLY match passport |
| Wrong purpose selection | Incorrect records | Match to your actual visa type |
| Expired passport | Entry denied | Ensure 6+ months validity |
—
What If You Can’t Fill It Online?
Don’t worry! If you don’t have internet access or can’t complete the online form, you have alternatives:
- Scan QR code at the port – Upon arrival, scan the QR code with your mobile phone
- Use smart devices at immigration – Most major airports have self-service kiosks
- Fill out paper card – Available at selected entry points
—
Essential Tips for Your China Trip
- ✅ Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, and QR code
- ✅ Register accommodation within 24 hours if staying at a non-hotel
- ✅ Check visa requirements for your nationality before booking
- ✅ Allow extra time at immigration if completing the form on arrival
- ✅ Contact +86-10-12367 for immigration helpline assistance
—
Ready to Explore China?
The new China Digital Arrival Card system makes entering China easier than ever. By completing this simple form online before your trip, you’ll save time and ensure a smooth arrival experience.
At Eternal China Tours, we help international travelers discover the wonders of China with expertly curated tours and comprehensive travel guidance. From the Great Wall to the Forbidden City, let us help you plan an unforgettable journey.
Have questions about entering China? Contact us today for personalized travel advice and tour packages tailored to your interests!
