travel_explore China Arrival Card

The China Arrival Card is the immigration form that can be completed online or upon arrival, and was introduced to simplify the entry procedures for travelers visiting China.

The form requires providing personal details, passport number, flight information, and the purpose of the visit.

The China Arrival Card serves as a tool for processing entries and maintaining records of foreign visitors.

The new system streamlines formalities, so it’s important to follow the official steps carefully, as any omission or concealment may result in serious consequences and denied entry.

After the process, a QR code will be generated that must be shown upon entry to China.

Who is Exempt from the China Arrival Card?

The following foreign nationals are exempted from completing the China Arrival Card:

• Holders of a valid Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of China.
• Foreigners with a valid Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese).
• Travelers transiting directly within 24 hours without leaving the port’s restricted area.
• Members of tourist groups who are visa-exempt or hold a group visa.
• Crew members, drivers, and other transport vehicle personnel.
• Passengers entering by cruise ship and returning on the same cruise.
• Individuals eligible for special treatment through the centralized submission of entry and exit documents.
• Those entering through the E-channel.

If you belong to any of the categories listed above, you do not need to complete the China Arrival Card.

How to Complete a China Arrival Card Online?

The procedure for the China Arrival Card consists of several intuitive steps that may be done from a computer or a smartphone.

Foreigners need to follow the simple instructions:

1. Upload necessary documents: Log in to the system and attach a photo of the passport bio-data page.
2. Provide basic information: It is necessary to fill in the fields with accurate data.
3. Share personal details: Enter further contact and administrative details.
4. Add travel information: The section covers the itinerary and stay in China.
5. Agree to the terms and conditions: Sign the form and then click the confirmation button.
6. Receive the digital arrival card: You can download the Arrival Card directly or send it to your email address.

The best option is to complete the form before the journey to China, but it is possible to do it upon arrival, using a special kiosk. Temporarily, paper versions are available as well.

NOTE: The China Arrival Card has a QR code that must be presented to the authorities during the border check in China.

What Information is Necessary for the China Arrival Card Process?

Among the necessary details that need to be filled in while getting the Chinese Arrival Card are:

• Last Name
• First Name
• Gender
• Date of Birth — Year / Month / Day
• Country/Region of Citizenship
• Type of ID Document
• ID Number
• Entry Transportation Mode
• Arrival Flight/Train/Vessel Number
• City of Entry
• Port of Entry
• Chinese Name — Optional
• Country/Region of Birth
• City of Birth
• Contact Number
• Email
• Do You Hold a Valid Visa or Other Entry Permit? — Yes/No
• Purpose of the Entry
• Date of Entry
• Destination Cities in China
• Address in China
• Cities of Transit in China
• Do You Have any Inviting Entities or Inviters in China? — Yes/No
• Confirmed Departure Itinerary

Remember to check all the information before confirmation, as any discrepancies or false data may lead to further complications, such as delays or legal consequences.

Entry Requirements to China

Entry requirements are crucial for travelers, as they determine whether they can cross the border.

To enter China, the following documentation is usually necessary:

• A valid passport
• A visa to China
• A special permit (if necessary)
• China Arrival Card
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination (if coming from the country of risk)
• Evidence of an onward or return ticket

Foreign nationals may also be asked for additional documents, depending on the individual circumstances, such as their travel purpose.

Before the trip to China, it is advisable to check all the information on the official websites or contact the nearest embassy or consulate.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the China Arrival Card?
  The China Arrival Card is an immigration form that travelers must complete online or upon arrival. It was implemented in order to simplify entry procedures into China.
• What information is necessary for the China Arrival Card?
  Travelers must provide personal details, passport information, travel data, contact details, and the purpose of their visit.
• Why is the China Arrival Card important?
  The card is used by immigration authorities to process entries and keep records of foreign visitors, helping to maintain smooth and secure border control.
• Who is exempt from completing the China Arrival Card?
  Individuals, such as permanent resident ID holders, transit passengers within 24 hours, certain tourist groups, cruise passengers, crew members, and E-channel users, are exempt from the requirement to complete the China Arrival Card.
• Can I fill in the China Arrival Card upon arrival?
  It is recommended to complete the form before traveling; however, you may also fill it in at a kiosk upon arrival. Paper versions are temporarily available as well.
• What happens after submitting the online China Arrival Card?
  After completing the form, a QR code is generated, which must be shown to border authorities during entry into China.
• What happens if the information I provide in the China Arrival Card is incorrect?
  Any errors, omissions, or false information may lead to delays, denied entry, or other legal consequences.
• How do I complete the China Arrival Card online?
  You must upload required documents, fill in accurate personal and travel information, agree to the terms, and then download or email the digital Arrival Card.

Conclusion

The China Arrival Card is a necessary requirement for travelers entering China, designed to streamline border procedures.

Submitting the card online before the trip is the most convenient option, but the process can also be completed upon arrival.

Always review the details carefully for a smooth and trouble-free entry into China, as incomplete or false data in the Arrival Card may lead to issues and denied entry.