How to Fill Out China’s Arrival Card for Foreign Visitors

When you arrive in China, you’ll need to fill out a Foreign Arrival Card. You can do this in three ways: on paper, at a self-service kiosk, or online for quick on-site printing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you breeze through immigration.

1. Paper Arrival Card
On the plane or in the arrival hall, you’ll receive a paper Foreign Arrival Card. Fill in your basic information such as your name, passport number, flight details, and address in China in English or Chinese. After landing, hand the card to the immigration officer along with your passport.

Tip: Keep the card safe until you pass through immigration—it’s mandatory.

2. Self-Service Kiosk
The self-service kiosks work just like the paper form. In the arrival hall, swipe your passport at the machine. The screen will display instructions in English or Chinese. Check your information, fill in any missing details, and provide your address in China. Press “Print”, and within 10 seconds, the machine will print your completed card. Sign it and present it to the officer for a smooth entry.

3. Online Pre-Fill and On-Site Printing
Some airports allow you to fill out your arrival card online before you arrive. While interfaces may vary by port, the required information is the same. Here’s an example using Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport:

Step 1: Access the Official Form
Scan the QR code for the e-arrival card or visit the official link. Switch the language at the top-left corner if needed. Click “Foreign Arrival Card”, agree to the policy, and select “Start Application.”

Step 2: Enter Passport Details
Fill in your passport information: name, gender, nationality, date of birth, and passport number. Use English or Chinese clearly.

Step 3: Enter Arrival Information
Provide your phone number, visa exemption status, reason for entering China, flight/train/ship details, layover city, and detailed address or hotel in China.

Step 4: Answer Additional Questions
Answer questions about your exit plan, invitation from a Chinese entity (if any), and countries/regions visited in the past two years.

Step 5: Submit the Form
Check the box confirming that all information is true and accurate, acknowledging that false information may lead to legal consequences. Click “Submit.”

Step 6: Print Your QR Code
Save the QR code or submission record. Upon arrival, scan it at the self-service terminal to quickly print your card. Many terminals support multiple languages.

Pro Tip: Using the online pre-fill can save you valuable time at busy airports.