Effective November 20, 2025, China will introduce a digital arrival card system, allowing foreign travelers to complete entry information online before arriving in the country. This initiative follows China’s recent extension of its unilateral visa-free policy for 45 countries, reinforcing its commitment to streamlined travel and international openness.
How the Digital Arrival Card Works
Foreign travelers—whether entering with a visa or visa-free—can submit their arrival details through:
- National Immigration Administration (NIA) website (PC or mobile)
- “NIA 12367” app
- WeChat or Alipay mini programs
For those unable to complete the process in advance, options remain available upon arrival:
- Self-service kiosks
- QR code scanning
- Paper forms (during a transitional period)
This move aligns China with other Asian destinations like India, Indonesia, and South Korea, which have adopted similar digital entry systems.
Who Is Exempt?
The NIA has outlined seven categories exempt from completing the digital arrival card:
- Holders of a Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card in China
- Non-Chinese citizens with a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao
- Group travelers with collective visas or visa-free entry
- Transit passengers staying within port areas
- Cruise passengers entering and departing on the same vessel
- Travelers using fast-track entry lanes
- Foreign employees of exit-entry transport vehicles
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.