China's Digital Arrival Card: A Complete Guide

Since November 20, 2025, foreign travelers entering China can — and generally should — complete their arrival card online before landing instead of filling out the paper form at the border. Here is everything you need to know.

What it is and who needs it

The arrival card (officially the "Entry Declaration") is a short standard form that border inspection uses to record your entry. If you are a foreign national entering China by air, land, or sea, you need one — digital or paper. The digital version simply moves the form to your phone.

A few categories are exempt — most notably holders of a Chinese Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card. Border-area residents from seven neighboring countries use a separate channel.

Timing matters: within 3 days

The digital card can only be submitted within 3 days before your arrival. Filing a week in advance does not work — the system will not accept it. For most travelers, the natural moment is right after check-in or the day before departure.

Where to file (official channels only)

• Website: https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/ (computer) or the mobile version linked from the same domain
• The "NIA 12367" app from China's National Immigration Administration
• WeChat or Alipay mini-programs run by the immigration authority
• Scanning the QR code printed on the paper card with your phone

Watch out for scams. The immigration authority has publicly warned about copycat websites that charge fees. The only official domain is s.nia.gov.cn, and filing is free. Never pay anyone for "expedited" arrival card service.

What you will be asked

The form asks for details you already have in your passport: name as printed, passport number, nationality, flight or vehicle number, and your address in China (a hotel name is fine). Each passenger files their own card, including children.

After you submit

You receive a confirmation — screenshot it or note the reference. At border inspection, present it along with your passport; the officer scans the record and you are through. If you could not file online, paper cards remain available at the border — the digital card is convenient, not compulsory.

The Arrival Card tool in PandaTrip opens the official page directly and walks you through each field in your language.