China
Arrival Card for Foreigners
How to complete China’s official arrival card, prepare the required information, save your QR receipt, and avoid fake paid websites.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Quick answer
Quick answer
The China Arrival Card is an entry information form for many foreign visitors before immigration inspection. Complete it through official NIA channels if required, save the QR receipt, and never pay a third-party website to fill it in for you. If needed, you can still complete it at the port on arrival.
Who needs to complete it
The arrival card mainly applies to foreign travelers entering China, but some categories may be exempt.
Most foreign visitors entering China
Many foreign travelers entering China may need to complete an arrival card before immigration inspection, unless they fall into an exempt category.
Visa-free and visa holders
Whether you enter with a visa, visa-free policy, or transit arrangement, check whether the arrival card is required for your situation.
Some travelers may be exempt
Exemptions may include foreign permanent residence card holders, eligible 24-hour direct transit passengers staying inside the port area, group visa travelers, e-channel users, and certain crew members.
Four official submission methods
Use official channels only. The online arrival card service should not require payment.
Official NIA web form
Use the official National Immigration Administration Arrival Card website before traveling to China.
NIA government service platform
Use the National Immigration Administration government service platform if this channel is easier for you.
NIA 12367 app
Use the official NIA 12367 app if you prefer to complete the form on your phone.
WeChat / Alipay mini program or QR code
Use the official WeChat or Alipay mini program, or scan the official arrival card QR code with your phone.
On-arrival QR code
Entry ports may display an official blue QR code notice like this one. Scan it to open the arrival card form if you could not submit before traveling.
Use only official NIA signs and domains. Self-service devices or paper arrival cards may also be available.
Information required
Prepare these details before opening the form so you can complete it quickly.
Passport information
Prepare your passport number, full passport name, nationality, date of birth, and other identity details.
Arrival transport details
Prepare your flight, train, ship, or other arrival information, including arrival date and port of entry if requested.
Address in China
Prepare your hotel name, Chinese address, city, district, and phone number if available.
Trip purpose and stay details
Prepare your visit purpose, intended length of stay, and return or onward travel information.
When to submit
Submit once your arrival details and China address are ready. Do not wait until the immigration queue if you can avoid it.
Submit before traveling if possible
Complete the form after your arrival details and China address are confirmed. This helps reduce stress after landing.
You can still complete it on arrival
If you cannot submit online in advance, you may complete it at the port by scanning the QR code, using on-site smart devices, or filling a paper arrival card.
Check the latest official instructions
If the official form shows a validity window, QR expiry time, or update rule, follow the instruction shown on the official page.
QR receipt, changes, and companions
After submission, handle the confirmation carefully and check whether each traveler needs separate information.
Save the QR receipt
After submission, save the QR code or confirmation screen. Take a screenshot in case mobile data or app login fails at the airport.
Fix mistakes before immigration
If you notice a wrong passport number, name, flight, or address, correct it through the official form if possible. If you are unsure, ask staff before immigration inspection.
Do not assume one QR covers everyone
Each traveler may need their own arrival information. For children or companions, follow the official form instructions and fill separate traveler details if required.
Official links and fraud warning
The official service is free. Avoid fake websites that imitate the China Arrival Card form and ask for payment.
The official service is free
Do not pay a third-party website just to complete the China Arrival Card. Use official NIA channels only.
Check the domain carefully
Be careful with websites that imitate the official form, ask for unnecessary fees, or use suspicious payment pages.
Use official links or QR codes
If you are not sure, access the form through the NIA website, NIA 12367 app, WeChat or Alipay mini program, or official QR code.
Official Arrival Card form
Use this official NIA page to fill the China Arrival Card.
National Immigration Administration
Check official immigration notices, policy updates, and service information.
NIA fraud warning
Official reminder that online arrival card filling is free and fake websites may charge travelers.
China Arrival Card FAQ
Common questions foreign visitors search before arrival.
Do foreigners need to complete a China Arrival Card?
Many foreign visitors entering China may need to complete arrival information before immigration inspection. Some traveler categories may be exempt, so follow the official NIA instructions shown for your situation.
When should I fill in the China Arrival Card?
Complete it after your arrival transport and China address are confirmed. If you cannot submit before traveling, you may still complete it at the port on arrival.
Is the China Arrival Card free?
Yes. The official online arrival card service is free. Avoid third-party websites that imitate the form and ask for payment.
What information do I need?
Prepare your passport details, arrival flight or transport information, China address, visit purpose, contact details, and return or onward travel information if requested.
What if I make a mistake?
Correct the information through the official form if possible. If you are already at the port or unsure what to do, ask immigration or border inspection staff before inspection.
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