China Introduces Digital Arrival Card & Expands Visa-Free Transit From 2025

Beijing China

China Introduces Digital Arrival Card and Expands Visa-Free Transit in 2025

China is making it easier for international travelers to enter the country by introducing a new Digital Arrival Card and expanding its visa-free transit programs. These changes are part of China’s ongoing effort to simplify travel procedures, encourage tourism, support business travel, and align with global digital entry systems.

The new policies begin in November 2025 and will benefit millions of visitors, including transit passengers, tourists, and business travelers.

What is the Digital Arrival Card?

Starting 20 November 2025, all foreign travelers arriving in China will need to fill out a Digital Arrival Card before entering the country. This will replace the traditional paper form over time.

Where to Fill the Digital Arrival Card

Travelers can complete the form through:

• The National Immigration Administration (NIA) website

• The “12367” mobile app

• WeChat or Alipay mini-programs

If travelers are unable to submit the form before boarding, they will still be able to complete it upon arrival using:

• QR codes provided at the airport

• Self-service machines in immigration halls

  

Paper Form Transition

The existing paper arrival card will remain available for a short transition period until the digital system becomes standard.

Category No.	Traveler Category	Details
1.	Permanent Residents	Foreign nationals holding a Chinese Permanent Resident ID.
2.	Hong Kong & Macao Residents	Those holding Mainland Travel Permits.
3.	Group Travelers	Individuals entering China under collective visas or group visa-free programs.
4.	Airport Transit Passengers	Travelers who do not clear immigration and remain inside the airport (Airside Transit).
5.	Cruise Passengers	Passengers who enter and depart China on the same cruise ship (no land excursions).
6.	Fast-Track Lane Users	Travelers using designated fast-track channels.
7.	Foreign Crew Members	Individuals serving on international ships, aircraft, or trains.

Visa-Free Transit Options Expanded

China is also expanding its 24-hour and 240-hour visa-free transit policies to make international travel easier.

24-Hour Visa-Free Transit Expansion

Effective 5 November 2025, travelers transferring through China on their way to a third country can use the 24-hour visa-free transit facility at 10 more international airports, including:

• Tianjin

• Dalian

• Nanjing

• Fuzhou

• Qingdao

• Wuhan

• Nanning

• Haikou

• Chongqing

• Kunming

Transit passengers must remain within the airport transit zone unless entering under longer transit exemptions.

240-Hour (10-Day) Visa-Free Transit Program

The 240-hour visa-free transit program has been expanded to more ports across Guangdong Province. Eligible travelers from 55 countries can stay for up to 10 days for:

• Tourism

• Business trips

• Visiting family and friends

New Eligible Ports Include:

• Guangzhou Pazhou Ferry Terminal

• Hengqin Port

• Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Port

• Zhongshan Passenger Port

• West Kowloon Station (High-Speed Rail Port)

Why This Matters for Travelers

These new procedures:

• Reduce paperwork and waiting time

• Support digital convenience

• Make short visits and transit travel easier

• Encourage travelers to use China as a transit hub for international flights

This is especially beneficial for travelers planning multi-country trips across Asia, Europe, and North America. Watch the video here: