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Transit Planning and Airport Logistics in China: real experience from chats

Short answer
Complete the digital China Customs Declaration online up to 90 days before arrival and save the QR code for rapid inspection. You only need to fill out this card if you plan to exit the airport transit area.

From real experience

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.
✓ 2 reports from chats
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.
✓ 1 report from chats
Short layovers in China (Shanghai/Beijing): 1. Single-ticket bookings allow for shorter transit times (under 2 hours) as airline staff assist with tight connections.
2. If a passenger accidentally exits the transit zone, use offline translation apps (English to Chinese) to communicate with airport staff. 3. Health declaration forms are required for Guangzhou but not for Shanghai.
✓ 1 report from chats
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.
✓ 1 report from chats
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.
✓ 1 report from chats

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