Arrival and Customs Declaration Forms: how it works in China — first-hand
Short answer
Complete the digital Arrival Card via the official website or mini-program in advance and save the QR code on your device for faster processing. You only need to fill out this card if you plan to exit the airport transit area; if staying in the transit zone, a declaration is generally not required.
From real experience
An Arrival Card is mandatory for international entries into China.
For transit flights, if you do not exit the transit zone, you do not need to fill it out. If you leave the airport transit area for the city, you must complete the card. Fill in the destination as the city of first landing in China if there is a domestic connecting flight. It is highly recommended to fill out the digital arrival card via the official link in advance, rather than using paper forms on arrival.
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China transit entry/arrival: Travelers must complete an Arrival Card (China Customs Declaration) via the official website/mini-program.
This can be done up to 90 days before the crossing. If the transit does not involve clearing immigration or changing terminals, a declaration may not be required. Always have the QR code saved as an image on your device for rapid inspection.
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For transit flights through China (e.g., Shanghai) on a single ticket, passengers are often guided through dedicated transit corridors.
To expedite security screening, travelers should remove all metal items and extra layers of clothing immediately. Passengers with K-ETA for Korea on a transit layover in China are generally exempt from filling out Chinese entry cards.
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Travelers entering China must complete arrival cards.
It is acceptable to prepare multiple cards in advance if there are multiple entries planned (e.g., visiting HK in between). Only the port of entry, departure, and the primary city of stay are strictly required; detailed itinerary listing is not mandatory.
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When transiting through China with a layover that allows for exiting the airport, it is recommended to fill out an electronic Arrival Card online beforehand to expedite border control procedures.
Ensure sufficient time is allocated for this process and for navigating airport procedures.
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For transit through China requiring exiting the transit zone, passengers can pre-fill the health declaration QR code to expedite passage.
If an arrival card asks for a Chinese address and none is available (e.g., for transit), enter the airport address.