China Digital Arrival Card 2025: Essential Guide for UK Travellers and Visa Applicants

From November 20, 2025, China has launched a digital arrival card system for foreign travellers. This replaces the traditional paper arrival card and allows visitors to submit their entry information online before arriving in China. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) introduced this system to streamline entry procedures, reduce errors from handwritten forms, and shorten waiting times at border control.

How UK Travellers Can Complete the China Digital Arrival Card

Official Channels

Travellers can complete the digital arrival card through the following official channels:

• NIA Official Website: https://en.nia.gov.cn
• NIA 12367 Mobile App: available on iOS App Store and Android
• WeChat Mini-Program: search "中国国家移民管理局" (National Immigration Administration), then select Foreigner Service, open Arrival Card, and fill in the required information
• Alipay Mini-Program: search "国家移民管理局" and follow instructions to submit the arrival card

On Arrival

• Present the QR code generated after online submission at border control.
• If the form was not completed in advance, self-service kiosks at airports allow you to fill it on the spot.
• Paper arrival cards remain available as a transitional option.

Form Details

The digital form requires:

• Passport personal information page (scan or photo)
• Full name, nationality, date of birth
• Travel information (flight/train number) and address in China
• Digital signature confirmation After submission, travellers receive a QR code to present at immigration.

Who Is Exempt from the China Digital Arrival Card

Some travellers do not need to fill in the digital arrival card:

• Holders of a Chinese Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
• Holders of Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong / Macao (non-Chinese nationality)
• Travellers on a group visa or eligible for group visa-free entry
• Transit passengers staying less than 24 hours within the restricted area of the port
• Cruise ship passengers entering and leaving on the same vessel
• Those using fast-track/e-channel entry
• Foreign crew members of exit-entry transport vehicles

Benefits of Using the China Digital Arrival Card for UK Visitors

Advantages:

• Faster border processing: pre-filling reduces waiting times at immigration
• Fewer errors: digital forms are clearer than handwritten cards
• Eco-friendly: less paper is used

Considerations:

• Ensure stable internet before travel to complete the form
• Paper cards remain available as a backup
• Save the QR code on your phone for border inspection
• Confirm your port of entry has self-service kiosks if needed
• Use official platforms only to avoid scams

Practical Tips for UK Travellers

• Submit ahead of time: complete the arrival card 24–48 hours before departure
• Save the QR code: screenshot it for easy access at border control
• Check exemptions: if you fall under an exempt category, verify with your arrival airport first

China’s digital arrival card, effective from November 20, 2025, is a major step in modernising immigration services. UK travellers can submit their entry information online and speed up border clearance using the QR code. Most visitors will benefit from completing the card in advance, ensuring a smoother arrival experience.