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China Arrival Card
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Get your China Arrival Card: Apply now

Skip the queues. Complete your China Arrival Card in minutes with iVisa.

Last updated: December 2025

Apply for your China Arrival Card now, the new digital entry form for all foreign travelers arriving in China. It replaces the old paper arrival forms that were handed out on flights or at immigration.

Fill it out quickly with iVisa’s simplified process and breeze through border control.

China Arrival Card Visa fast facts

➡️ Valid for one trip: You’ll need the arrival card each time you enter China.

➡️ Quick delivery: Forgot to get your arrival card? Choose Super Rush processing for instant review and delivery to your email inbox.

➡️ Easiest way to apply: Skip the confusing government questions and account creation with our simple process.

➡️ Apply anywhere: Forgot to fill out the arrival card? Apply on the go with the iVisa app.

What you need for the China Arrival Card

Most travelers only need the basics. Have these ready for a quick application:

✔️ A valid passport

✔️ Travel details

Don’t have your documents right now?

Simply start your application today, save your progress, and add your documents when you’re ready to proceed.

💡iVisa pro tip: “Immigration isn’t forgiving of mismatched passport details. Apply ahead and let us double-check everything for a smooth arrival.”

Why choose iVisa for your China Arrival Card

iVisa ✅ Do it yourself ❌
Error-free application: We ensure everything’s correct. Even a typo can cause delays or issues on arrival.
Easiest way to apply: Simple questions and rush processing options. Government processes can be confusing without support.
Support in 14+ languages: Need help? Get support in your language. No support available.
Last-minute delivery: Forgot to apply? Get it quickly without mistakes via our app. Unclarity on delivery and multiple steps required.
Save & resume anytime: Pause and pick up where you left off. Start over if you wait too long.

Ask iVisa

Have a visa question? We'll provide the answer.

Andi P.
GermanyNovember 18, 2025
I’m visiting China for tourism now, but might come back later for business. Do I need anything different? Thnx
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iVisa
November 18, 2025

Hi Andi,

You’ll complete one Arrival Card for this visit. When you return later for business, you’ll simply submit another Arrival Card for that trip. Same quick process, every time.

With iVisa, you can skip the hassle of filling out the form again, as we can securely store your details for your next visit with your permission, for an even faster process.

German citizens don't need a visa for tourism, business, or transit in China.

Daniela
BirminghamOctober 21, 2025
My flight is tomorrow. Can I still do this in time?
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iVisa
October 21, 2025

Hi Daniela!

Yes. Even close to departure you can get your China Arrival Card quickly. Since this is not a visa but a government form, it doesn’t require a formal approval, but it’s important everything is filled out correctly and completely.

iVisa makes it fast and simple, upload your passport, fill out the simplified form in minutes via our platform or app, select Rush or Super Rush processing, and get your Arrival Card delivered ASAP to your email inbox.

How to Apply: Arrival Card

01
FILL OUT ONLINE APPLICATION

Complete our easy online application

02
RECEIVE DOCUMENT VIA EMAIL

Don't waste time in a queue or filling out forms on the plane or at the airport. We will do it for you

03
CHECK IF YOU REQUIRE A VISA (PAPER OR ELECTRONIC)

Some nationalities require a visa to enter this country. Check with your local embassy / consulate

04
ENTER DESTINATION

Present your passport and the document we provide to save you time and hassle when entering destination

How to Apply: Embassy Registration

01
Fill Out Online Application

Complete our easy online application and pay with credit card or PayPal

02
Travel Safely

Your embassy will assist you if an emergency (eg. Natural disasters, civil unrest, etc) occur

Why Register with the Embassy

Travel Registration is a service provided by the government. This service allows you to record information about your upcoming trip abroad to the Department of State so it can be used to assist you in case of an emergency. People residing abroad can also get routine information from their nearest embassy or consulate if registered.

Required Information to Apply

Once You Have Registered With Your Embassy Or Consulate, You Will Need To Update Your Data If:

  • your contact details change,
  • your civil status changes,
  • you are going back to your home country.

Questions?

No. The China Arrival Card is an arrival registration form, not a visa. If your nationality requires a visa for China, you still need the right visa plus this Arrival Card.
All foreign travelers entering China by air, land, or sea, including minors (minors can be included on a parent/guardian application). You’ll have to complete a new Arrival Card for each entry.
You may be exempt if you are:
  • A foreigner with a Chinese Permanent Resident ID Card, or
  • A non-Chinese holder of a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong & Macao residents, or
  • An exempt travel/transport category such as tour groups, transport crew, drivers, or vehicle employees.

Not always. You’re exempt if your layover is under 24 hours and you don’t leave the restricted transit area.

This also applies to certain cruise passengers continuing with the same cruise. If you pass immigration or leave the port, complete the Arrival Card.

You can still do it on arrival at self-service kiosks, via QR code, or by paper form during the limited transition period. But completing it online first means no scrambling at the airport and a faster arrival experience.
No. It can’t be extended and is single-entry only. You’ll need to submit a new one each time you travel to China.
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