China Online Arrival Card 2026: How to Fill the Digital Arrival Card
Traveling to China? The China Online Arrival Card is a digital entry declaration form that allows foreign travelers to submit their arrival information before entering China.
Instead of completing only a paper arrival card at immigration checkpoints, eligible travelers can provide their entry details online through official channels before arrival.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the China Digital Arrival Card, including who needs to complete it, required information, how to fill out the form, QR code usage, exemptions, and common mistakes before entering China.
China Online Arrival Card at a Glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A digital entry declaration form for foreign travelers entering China |
| Who needs it? | Most foreign nationals entering China |
| When should you complete it? | Usually 24–72 hours before arrival |
| Where can you submit it? | Through official National Immigration Administration (NIA) channels |
| What information is required? | Passport details, travel information, accommodation address, and contact details |
What Is China Online Arrival Card?
The China Online Arrival Card, also known as the China Digital Arrival Card, is an online declaration form used to collect relevant entry information from travelers arriving in the People’s Republic of China.
The form helps immigration authorities process traveler information before or during entry inspection. By completing the arrival card online, travelers can save time at airports, railway stations, and other Chinese ports of entry.
The China Digital Arrival Card normally requires travelers to provide:
Full name and personal details
Passport number
Nationality
Arrival information
Transportation details
Purpose of visit
Intended length of stay in China
Accommodation address in China
Contact information in China
For many international visitors, completing the form online is faster and more convenient than filling out paper forms after arrival.
Is China Online Arrival Card Mandatory for Foreign Travelers?
Yes. Most foreign nationals entering China need to complete the China Online Arrival Card or provide the required arrival information before immigration inspection.
However, requirements can vary depending on the traveler’s status, nationality, entry method, and current immigration policies.
One important point:
Visa-free entry does not automatically exempt travelers from completing the arrival card.
Travelers entering China under visa-free policies may still need to submit their entry information online.
The arrival card requirement is separate from visa requirements. A traveler may not need a visa but may still need to complete the digital arrival declaration.
Who Needs to Complete China Digital Arrival Card?
Foreign Travelers
Most non-Chinese citizens entering China for tourism, business, study, family visits, or other purposes need to complete the arrival card.
This includes travelers arriving by:
International flights
International trains
Cruise ships
Other approved transportation methods
Visa-Free Travelers
Travelers using China’s visa-free entry policies are generally still required to provide arrival information.
Visa exemption only affects whether a traveler needs a visa. It does not necessarily remove immigration declaration requirements.
Business and Group Visa Travelers
Visitors entering China for business activities or under approved group visa arrangements should complete the required arrival information before entering the country.
Travelers should ensure that their passport details and travel purpose match their actual documents.
Cruise Passengers Entering China
International cruise passengers may also need to complete the digital arrival card depending on their entry arrangements and immigration requirements.
Who May Be Exempt From China Arrival Card?
Some travelers may not need to complete the China arrival card depending on their status.
Possible exempt categories may include:
Travelers holding valid mainland travel permits
Hong Kong and Macao residents with valid travel documents
Foreign permanent residents with valid foreign permanent resident ID cards
Certain approved entry situations
Because immigration policies can change, travelers should always confirm the latest requirements before departure.
When Should You Complete China Online Arrival Card?
Travelers are recommended to complete the China Online Arrival Card 24–72 hours before arrival.
Completing the form in advance helps avoid unnecessary delays and makes the immigration process smoother.
The best time to complete it is:
After confirming your flight or transportation details
Before boarding your flight to China
Before arriving at a Chinese airport, railway station, or cruise terminal
If you forget to complete the form before departure, you may still be able to submit the required information after landing through available official channels.
How to Fill China Online Arrival Card Step by Step
Completing the China Digital Arrival Card is straightforward if you prepare the required information before starting.
Before filling out the form, prepare:
Valid passport
Flight or transportation details
China accommodation address
Contact information in China
Travel purpose information
The online arrival card can be completed through official online channels provided by the National Immigration Administration (NIA).
Step 1: Access the Official China Arrival Card Platform
Travelers can submit the China Online Arrival Card through official channels, including:
The official National Immigration Administration website
The NIA 12367 mobile app
Approved mobile platforms such as WeChat or Alipay mini programs
Always use official channels to avoid incorrect information or unofficial services charging unnecessary fees.
The China Digital Arrival Card process is managed by the National Immigration Administration and is free of charge.
Step 2: Enter Personal and Passport Information
The first section requires basic identity information.
Travelers usually need to provide:
Full name
Gender
Date of birth
Nationality
Passport number
Contact details
Your information should match your passport exactly.
Incorrect passport details may cause delays during immigration inspection.
Step 3: Provide Travel and Entry Information
Travelers must provide details about their planned entry into China.
This may include:
Arrival date
Entry port
Flight number or transportation details
Purpose of visit
Intended length of stay
The information should match your actual travel plans.
For example, if you arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport, your entry port information should reflect that location.
Step 4: Add Accommodation Address and Contact Information
Foreign travelers entering China are generally required to provide where they will stay during their visit.
You may need to enter:
Hotel name and address
Residential address in China
Contact information in China
If you are staying at a hotel, use the official hotel address shown on your booking confirmation.
If staying with friends or relatives, provide the correct residential address and contact details.
Step 5: Submit the Form and Save Your QR Code
After completing all required fields:
Review your information carefully
Submit the China arrival card
Receive your confirmation
Save the QR code
Travelers should keep a screenshot of the QR code on their mobile phone.
During immigration inspection, officers may request travelers to show the QR code when checking entry information.
China Arrival Card Required Information Checklist
Preparing your information before filling out the form can make the process faster.
| Required Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport number | Your valid passport information |
| Personal details | Name, nationality, date of birth |
| Arrival information | Arrival date and entry port |
| Transportation details | Flight, train, or cruise information |
| Purpose of visit | Tourism, business, study, etc. |
| Length of stay | Planned duration in China |
| Accommodation address | Hotel or residential address |
| China contact information | Local contact details if required |
China Online Arrival Card vs Paper Arrival Card
Although China has introduced digital entry procedures, paper arrival cards may still be available at some immigration checkpoints.
The online arrival card is usually more convenient because travelers can complete the information before reaching immigration.
| China Online Arrival Card | Paper Arrival Card | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Digital form | Printed paper form |
| Completion time | Before arrival | Usually after arrival |
| Convenience | Faster and easier | Requires manual filling |
| Confirmation | QR code available | No digital confirmation |
Completing the digital arrival card in advance can reduce waiting time at airports and immigration areas.
What Happens After Submitting China Arrival Card?
After submission, travelers should:
Keep the confirmation information
Save the QR code
Carry their passport
Prepare visa or visa-free entry documents if required
The arrival card is only one part of the China entry process.
Travelers may still need to complete:
Immigration inspection
Passport verification
Customs procedures
China Entry Process After Arrival
The typical entry process after arriving in China includes:
1. Arrival at Chinese Port of Entry
Travelers arrive at an airport, railway station, or cruise terminal.
2. Immigration Inspection
Immigration officers check:
Passport
Visa or entry eligibility
Arrival information
3. QR Code Verification
If required, travelers may show their China Online Arrival Card QR code during inspection.
4. Customs Clearance
After immigration approval, travelers collect baggage and complete customs procedures.
Common China Online Arrival Card Problems
I Forgot to Complete the Arrival Card Before Traveling
Do not panic.
Travelers who did not complete the form in advance may still be able to submit their arrival information after landing through available channels.
However, completing it before arrival is recommended because it saves time.
I Cannot Receive the QR Code
Common reasons include:
Incorrect passport number
Missing required information
Internet connection problems
Incorrect personal details
Check all information carefully and submit again if necessary.
I Entered Wrong Information on the Form
If you discover incorrect information, follow the official instructions to update or correct your details.
Do not provide false information, as entry information must match your travel documents.
Tips for a Smooth China Arrival
Before traveling to China:
Complete the China Online Arrival Card in advance
Check your passport validity
Confirm visa or visa-free eligibility
Save important travel documents offline
Keep your hotel address available
Download necessary travel apps before arrival
Preparing these details early can make the immigration process faster and easier.
Final Checklist Before Entering China
Before boarding your flight, make sure you have:
✓ Valid passport
✓ Visa or visa-free eligibility confirmation
✓ Completed China Online Arrival Card
✓ QR code saved on your phone
✓ Hotel or accommodation details
✓ Transportation information
A little preparation before departure can make your arrival in China faster and smoother.
China Online Arrival Card FAQ
Is China Online Arrival Card free?
Yes. The China Digital Arrival Card service provided through official National Immigration Administration channels is free.
Travelers should avoid unofficial websites that charge fees for submitting the form.
Do I need China Arrival Card if I enter China without a visa?
Yes. Visa-free entry does not automatically exempt travelers from completing the arrival card.
Travelers using visa-free policies may still need to submit their arrival information before entering China.
How early can I complete China Digital Arrival Card?
Most travelers can complete the China Online Arrival Card around 24–72 hours before arrival.
Completing it before departure is recommended.
Can I fill out China Arrival Card after landing?
Yes. Travelers who did not complete the form before arrival may still be able to provide their information after landing through available official channels.
However, completing it in advance helps avoid delays.
What information is needed for China Arrival Card?
Travelers typically need:
Passport number
Personal details
Travel information
Entry port
Intended stay duration
Accommodation address
Contact information in China
Where can I submit China Online Arrival Card?
Travelers should use official online channels provided by the National Immigration Administration, including the official NIA website and approved mobile platforms.
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