If you are planning a trip to China in 2026, one major update will impact your entry process. Beginning November 20, 2025, China will replace the old paper arrival card with a streamlined, digital arrival card that travelers can complete before flying. The new online form makes entry faster, eliminates the need for paper documents, and aligns China with other Asian countries using digital immigration systems. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Below is a complete guide to help you understand where to fill the digital arrival card, who must complete it, who is exempt, and the exact steps to submit your form successfully.
What Is the China Digital Arrival Card?
The digital arrival card is an online immigration form that stores a traveler’s personal, passport, and trip information. It replaces the standard paper arrival form previously required upon landing in China. The goal is to accelerate immigration checks and create a more convenient entry experience for foreign visitors. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Where You Can Complete the Digital Form
Travelers have four official platforms where they can fill out the digital arrival card: :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- National Immigration Administration (NIA) official website (desktop version)
- NIA official mobile app
- NIA 12367 Mobile App
- Mini-programs on WeChat and Alipay
Completing the form on these platforms ensures fast verification during immigration clearance.
If You Forget to Complete the Form
If you do not complete the form before departure, you can still fill it out upon arrival. China will provide QR code stations and electronic kiosks at airports and ports. For now, paper cards will remain available during the initial rollout phase. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Who Is Exempt from Completing the Digital Arrival Card?
Seven categories of travelers are exempt from filling out the online card: :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Non-Chinese nationals with a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong or Macao
- Holders of China’s Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
- Group travelers with collective visas or visa-free access
- Passengers in airside transit who remain within the airport
- Cruise passengers who depart on the same ship
- Travelers using fast-track access lanes
- Foreign crew working on international transport vehicles
How to Fill the China Digital Arrival Card (Step-by-Step)
You may complete the arrival card via the NIA website, app, or WeChat mini-program. Follow the steps below to ensure a smooth submission. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Step 1: Upload Your Passport Identification Page
Log into the platform and upload a clear image of the passport photo page. The system automatically extracts key personal details.
Step 2: Enter Your Personal Information
Review the auto-filled information and complete the remaining fields, including:
- Full name
- Gender
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Flight number and arrival city
Step 3: Provide Contact Information
Enter your phone number, email address, city of birth, and visa status. If you do not have a visa, choose your applicable entry policy (e.g., one-month visa waiver or 144-hour visa-free transit). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Step 4: Enter Your Travel Details in China
Provide details such as:
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, family visit, etc.)
- Intended travel dates
- City of residence during your stay
- Accommodation address
- Inviter information (if applicable)
- Return travel plans
Step 5: Review and Sign
Ensure all information is correct. Sign the declaration and submit the form. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Step 6: Download and Save Your Digital Arrival Card
Once the form is submitted, download the digital arrival card or email it to yourself. It contains a QR code that must be shown during immigration checks upon arrival. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Conclusion
China’s shift to a digital arrival card will make travel more efficient, reduce airport congestion, and streamline immigration procedures. Completing the form before departure is strongly recommended—it saves time, shortens queues, and ensures a smoother arrival experience. Whether you use the NIA website, app, or WeChat mini-program, the process is quick, simple, and traveler-friendly. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}