China Arrival Card Online: New Digital Entry Requirement for Foreign Travelers (December 2025 Update)

Anyone who has travelled into China in the past will remember this moment clearly. You step off the plane after a long international flight or you arrive by train, ferry or even a late-night taxi from Hong Kong. You enter the arrivals hall and immediately see it. A massive line of tired travellers stretching all the way to immigration. You want to join the line quickly but then you remember the Arrival Card. You look around for the little writing desks that are usually placed somewhere far from the queues. You walk over to the first desk only to find that the cards have run out. You walk to another one. Also empty. Meanwhile the line keeps moving and you can see people clearing immigration while you are still running around trying to find a simple slip of paper.

You finally spot someone holding one of these cards and you make the painful decision. You politely walk to the front of the immigration line and ask the officer for the paper. He hands it to you and points you back out to the arrivals hall. You return to one of the desks, relieved to finally have the form, only to discover the next problem. No pens. Not a single one. Most foreigners have experienced this scene at least once and it is always frustrating.

The good news is that things are changing. China has introduced a new Online Arrival Card that allows you to complete your entry information before arriving. This makes the entire process smoother, faster and far less stressful for international travellers.

Understanding the China Online Arrival Card

China launched its new Online Arrival Card on November 20, 2025, allowing foreign travellers to submit their entry information digitally before arriving in the country. The system is accessible through the National Immigration Administration website, the NIA 12367 app, WeChat and Alipay mini programs, or by scanning QR codes provided at airports, train stations and other ports of entry. The process is straightforward. Travellers follow the prompts, take a photo of their passport data page and the system automatically fills in the required information. Accuracy is essential because missing or incorrect details may result in delays or refusal of entry. For those unable to complete the form in advance, it can still be done onsite using QR codes, smart self service kiosks or the traditional paper Arrival Card.

The Online Arrival Card replaces the old paper slips that many visitors remember searching for in busy arrival halls and helps reduce waiting times by streamlining the immigration process. The official website for online filling is https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/

Several groups are exempt from completing the Arrival Card. These include holders of a valid Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of China, holders of a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents who are non Chinese citizens, travelers entering on a group visa or group visa free programs, and transit passengers who remain within the restricted airport area for 24 hours. Cruise passengers who enter and depart on the same vessel, E channel users, foreign crew members and other transport personnel, as well as individuals eligible for centralized document submission, are also exempt. Travelers using China’s 24 hour or 240 hour visa free transit policy may use the online system if they leave the port area.

Why the Online Arrival Card Matters

China remains one of Asia’s busiest hubs for international business travel, tourism and regional transit. Major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen receive millions of visitors each year, and improvements to border processes can make a noticeable difference during peak travel periods. The introduction of the Online Arrival Card is part of China’s effort to streamline entry procedures and create a smoother, more efficient experience for arriving travellers.

For frequent travellers, this is especially helpful. Instead of searching for paper slips or pens after a long journey, the form can be completed calmly from your phone before boarding your flight.

It also aligns China with global travel trends as more countries shift to digital border declarations. For travelers with scheduled meetings, family plans or onward connections, the time saved at immigration can make a real difference.

A Smoother Entry Experience for Your Next Trip to China

Whether you are visiting China to explore historical landmarks, attend business meetings, reconnect with family or transit onward to another destination, completing the China Arrival Card Online ensures a faster and more convenient entry process.

Personal Connect is Here to Help

At Personal Connect, we guide foreign professionals and companies through every aspect of China’s entry procedures, work permits and immigration compliance. Our team stays up to date with policy changes, including the new Online Arrival Card system, and we provide clear and practical support to help you navigate China with confidence. If you need assistance or have questions about entering or working in China, we are always here to help.

By Eddie B. @ Personal Connect

December 8, 2025