China Online Arrival Card
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The China Online Arrival Card is an entry form that most foreign nationals must complete before or upon arriving in China. Introduced by the National Immigration Administration (NIA) effective November 20, 2025, the form can be submitted online in advance or on arrival at the port. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or transit, completing the arrival card correctly is a required step in the immigration process.
What Is the China Online Arrival Card?
The China Online Arrival Card is an official immigration declaration submitted to the NIA. It collects your personal, travel, and health or customs information before or at the point of entry into China. The form replaced the traditional paper-only Arrival Card system — you now have the option to complete the form online before you travel, which reduces processing time at the immigration inspection site. Paper cards remain available at ports for those who cannot submit online.
NOTE: The arrival card is not a visa, an entry authorization, or a guarantee of entry into China. You must still hold a valid visa or qualify for an applicable visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangement before traveling.
Who Needs to Complete It?
Travelers Who Must Submit
All foreign nationals entering China are required to complete the arrival card, regardless of the purpose of their visit — including tourism, business, family visits, study, or work.
Exemptions and Special Cases
Seven categories of foreign nationals are exempt: holders of a PRC Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card; holders of a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Non-Chinese Citizens); group visa holders or those eligible for group visa-free entry; travelers transiting directly within 24 hours without leaving the restricted port area; travelers entering and exiting on the same cruise ship; travelers using designated fast lanes; and foreign employees of exit-entry transport vehicles. If you are unsure whether you qualify, contact the China Immigration Service Hotline 12367 before your journey.
When to Submit
You may complete the form at any time before you arrive in China. Submitting in advance is strongly recommended, as it reduces the time you spend at the immigration inspection counter. If you do not submit online in advance, you must complete the process upon arriving at the port — by scanning the QR code with your mobile phone, using the smart devices available at the port, or filling in a paper Arrival Card.
What You Need Before You Start
Passport and Personal Details
- Full name as it appears on your passport
- Passport number and nationality
- Date of birth and passport expiry date
Travel, Transport, and Accommodation Details
- Flight number, vessel name, or train number used to enter China
- Date of arrival and port of entry
- Address of your accommodation in China
- Intended length of stay
How to Complete the Form Step by Step
1. Access the Official Service
Use only official NIA channels. The official online submission website is s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC. You can also access the form through the NIA's official website (en.nia.gov.cn), the NIA Government Service Platform, the "NIA 12367" mobile app, or the WeChat/Alipay mini program.
2. Enter and Review the Information
Complete all required fields accurately, double-checking your passport number, accommodation address, and port of entry and travel details.
3. Submit and Save the Confirmation
You will receive a confirmation — either as a QR code, a reference number, or a downloadable document. Save it immediately by taking a screenshot, downloading the PDF, or noting the reference number separately.
What Happens After Submission?
On arrival, proceed to the immigration inspection counter and present your passport and arrival card confirmation. The officer will verify your details and may ask follow-up questions. Completing the form online does not guarantee entry into China — immigration officers retain full authority to assess each traveler's eligibility at the border.
How to Correct Errors or Retrieve the Confirmation
If you submitted the form with an error, contact the China Immigration Service Hotline 12367 for guidance, or inform the immigration officer of the discrepancy on arrival and present your passport for verification.
China Arrival Card vs Visa and Other Entry Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| China Visa | Authorizes entry into China |
| Visa-Free Entry | Allows entry without a visa for eligible nationalities |
| 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit | Allows short-term transit without a visa |
| China Online Arrival Card | Immigration declaration form completed on arrival |
The arrival card is a declaration form, not a travel authorization. Holding a confirmed arrival card submission does not permit entry if you do not also hold a valid visa or qualify for a visa exemption.
Key Points Before You Travel
- Confirm you hold a valid visa or qualify for an applicable visa-free or transit arrangement.
- Complete the arrival card through an official NIA channel, or know how to do so at the port.
- Save your confirmation in a format accessible without internet.
- Confirm your accommodation details match the address entered on the form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs the China Arrival Card?
All foreign nationals entering China, unless they fall into one of the seven exempt categories.
When should I fill it in?
Before your departure — early submission reduces processing time at the immigration counter.
Is the official online service free?
Yes, completing the form through any official NIA channel is entirely free.
Can I complete the form at the border if I did not submit online?
Yes, by scanning the QR code, using port smart devices, or filling in a paper Arrival Card.
Does the arrival card replace a Chinese visa?
No, it is a declaration form only and does not function as a visa.