China Arrival Card

The China Arrival Card is the official form introduced for foreign travelers going to China. The card can be filled out online or on arrival, and it simplifies entry procedures.

To complete the China Arrival Card, visitors need to provide their personal and travel information, such as passport number, purpose of the journey, flight number, etc.

It’s important to share accurate and truthful details, as any mistakes can lead to entry denial and legal consequences.

The form is used for processing entries—it streamlines the formalities and checks incoming travelers.

A QR code is generated after the procedure for the China Arrival Card. It must be presented to the immigration officers during border crossing.

NOTE: A China Arrival Card is not a visa. If you are not from a visa-free country, besides the card, you also need a proper permit for entry.

Who Needs a China Arrival Card

Almost all foreign nationals who plan to cross the Chinese border must complete a China Arrival Card.

However, there are some exceptions, including the following:

• Individuals who have a valid Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card issued by China.
• Nationals holding a valid Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese).
• Passengers making an international transit of up to 24 hours, provided they remain inside the designated port area.
• Tourists traveling as part of visa-free groups or those covered by a group visa arrangement.
• Crew members, commercial drivers, and other personnel operating transportation vehicles.
• Cruise ship visitors who arrive and depart on the same vessel.
• Applicants who qualify for special handling through centralized entry/exit document processing.
• Travelers using the E-channel for entry.

Those who are not exempt need to take part in the China Arrival Card process digitally or on arrival. It’s recommended to choose an electronic option, as it expedites the whole procedure.

China Arrival Card Application

To obtain a China Arrival Card, travelers must complete a simple procedure with a few intuitive steps.

The process for the card involves the following:

1. Enter the personal and travel information in the form.
2. Check if the provided details are correct.
3. Attach necessary documentation, such as a photo of the passport bio-data page.
4. Cover the service fee by one of the available methods.
5. Wait for processing, and you'll receive an email with the card.

After the procedure, applicants will get the QR code that must be shown during border control.

Currently, the China Arrival Card may be submitted online or upon arrival. However, it is highly advisable to use the electronic option, as it enables earlier preparation to avoid delays

China Arrival Card Validity Period

The China Arrival Card should be completed online before the trip or upon arrival in China.

The card doesn’t have a validity period like a visa, as it is necessary solely for entry to China.

From 20th November 2025, the form must be submitted each time a non-exempt traveler enters the country.

Requirements on Arrival

On arrival in China, foreign visitors must meet all the entry requirements for a smooth experience.

Among the necessary documentation are:

• A valid passport
• A China visa (if needed)
• China Arrival Card
• Evidence of yellow fever vaccination (if coming from a country with transmission risk)

Before the trip to China, check all the rules and regulations, as they may change at any time. Also, you may be asked for additional documents, so keep that in mind.

China Arrival Card Sample

The China Arrival Card sample is presented below for review:

Required Documents

To complete the China Arrival Card, travelers must have a valid passport (for at least 6 months).

Besides, it’s necessary to share basic personal and travel information and answer some questions:

• Names
• Gender
• Date and country of birth
• Country/region of citizenship
• Type of ID document
• ID number
• Entry transportation mode and vessel number
• City and port of entry
• Contact number
• Email
• Do you hold a valid visa or other entry permit?
• Purpose and date of the entry
• Destination cities in China
• Address in China
• Cities of transit in China
• Do you have any inviting entities or inviters in China?
• Confirmed departure itinerary

Remember to check all the provided details before the submission, as mistakes may lead to rejection and delays.

Important Information

• The China Arrival Card is necessary for all foreigners who are not exempt.
• The form can be submitted online (which is recommended) or on arrival.
• The China Arrival Card is not a visa; it is the document required upon entry.
• The completion of the form is simple and fast, as it usually takes no more than 15 minutes.
• It is necessary to check all the provided information twice before submission.
• To complete the China Arrival Card, travelers need to share personal, contact, and travel details.

FAQ

What is the China Arrival Card?

The China Arrival Card is an official entry form for foreign visitors that collects personal and travel details and generates a QR code required at border control.

Is the China Arrival Card a visa?

The China Arrival Card is not a visa; travelers who are not visa-exempt must still obtain an appropriate visa.

Who must complete the China Arrival Card?

Nearly all foreign travelers need a China Arrival Card unless they qualify for specific exemptions, such as having a Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card or using the E-channel.

How do I apply for the China Arrival Card?

You can complete the form on arrival or online by entering your details, uploading a passport page, paying the fee, and receiving a QR code by email.

What information is required on the form?

You must provide personal details, passport data, travel plans, contact information, and your intended address in China.

When should the China Arrival Card be submitted?

The China Arrival Card should be completed online before travel or filled in upon arrival if necessary.

How long is the China Arrival Card valid?

The card is needed only for the specific visit and must be submitted every time you enter China starting 20 November 2025.

What documents do I need upon arrival in China?

Travelers must bring a valid passport, a visa if required, the China Arrival Card, proof of onward travel, and a yellow fever certificate if relevant.

What if I make an error on the China Arrival Card?

Mistakes can cause delays or refusal of entry, so all information must be reviewed carefully before submission.

Can someone else fill out the China Arrival Card for me?

Yes, but all provided information must be accurate, and the traveler is responsible for its correctness.