China Entry Requirements, China Arrival Card & 12367 APP Guide for Travellers [2025]

Planning a trip to China for business or leisure? It’s best to understand China entry requirements and how to fill out China arrival card before arrival to ensure a smooth journey. I’ve gathered the latest updates to help you prepare confidently for your Singapore to China trip. Whether you’re heading to Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Beijing, Chongqing, Chengdu or any other cities, these entry guidelines apply wherever you land in China.

Visa Requirements for Singaporeans Travelling to China

Singaporeans travelling to China for tourism can enjoy 30-day visa-free access for short visits. However, if you plan to stay longer, engage in business, or visit family, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa (e.g., tourist, business, or family visa).

The application process typically requires a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and supporting documents such as flight bookings or an invitation letter. Visa processing usually takes 4-7 business days, so it's best to apply in advance. If you want to apply for China visa for domestic helper, S2 Visa is required.

Important Tips

• Apply early: While the visa application process isn’t usually lengthy, it’s best to apply a few weeks in advance of your trip.
• Consular updates: Keep an eye on the Chinese Embassy or Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) for any updates or changes to visa requirements.

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Required Documents for Entering China

1. Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into China.
2. Visa: For tourism, business, or family visits and other specific reasons to stay in China for longer than 30 days, you'll need to apply for a China visa unless you're eligible for 30-day visa-free entry.
3. Visa application form: Complete the appropriate visa application form based on your purpose of travel.
4. Passport-sized photos: Typically 2 recent passport-sized photos (check requirements for size and background).
5. Flight and hotel details: Proof of onward travel (return flight) and hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a Chinese host (for business or family visits).
6. Additional documents:

✅For business travellers: An invitation letter from a Chinese company.

✅For students: Admission letter from a Chinese educational institution.

✅For family visits: Proof of relationship.

How to Submit China Arrival Card On-Site?

Except for a valid passport or other immigration documents, foreign citizens also need to complete a China arrival card for inspection before entering China.

This paper version of entry registration card is usually provided during the flight or available near airport immigration counters. You’ll need to fill in basic details like your name, passport number, flight information, travel history and purpose for entering China. Make sure the information matches your travel documents to avoid any delays at immigration.

The arrival card is an essential part of the entry process for foreign travelers, so don’t skip it, even if you’re entering with a visa or visa exemption.

How to Submit China Arrival Card Online? [Latest Update on 12367 APP]

For added convenience, travellers can now complete the China Arrival Card online before landing. Previously, declarations were filled out on paper, and at a few airports like SHA, electronic forms were available. According to the latest policy, the declaration methods have been fully optimised and upgraded, and multiple electronic submission methods are now supported.

Just make sure to submit the form within 24 hours before your arrival. Once completed, you’ll receive a QR code. Keep a screenshot handy, as you’ll need to scan it in the self-service printing area of the entry card and print it out.

Here're the methods you can submit China Arrival Card online:

1. Visit the official website: https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/
2. Use the "Immigration Bureau 12367" APP
3. Search for "Immigration Bureau 12367" on WeChat (Alipay) mini-programs
4. Scan the official QR code to fill out the form

👀Note: First-time foreign visitors are required to have their fingerprints collected upon arrival in China. For foreigners unable to fill out the form online, you can scan the QR code or use on-site smart devices upon arrival at Chinese ports of entry to fill out the entry information online. Alternatively, you can still fill out the paper Arrival Card.

Submit China Arrival Card Online Through Official Website

After entering the official website of submitting China Arrival Card, choose Entry Declaration. Then you can add detailed information.

1. ID Information

You will need to submit your ID type (Ordinary Passport, Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport, Passport for Public Affairs, Seaman's Book), and upload your ID document page.

2. Basic Information

Fill out your name, gender, date of birth, country/region you're from, passport number, entry transportation mode, flight/train/vessel number, and your entry city/port.

3. Personal Information

Here you will need to submit your birthplace, contact number, visa number (if there is), etc.

4. Travel Information

You will also need to confirm your purpuse of entry, date of entry, destination cities, etc.

5. Confirm Information

Last, confirm the information you have submitted.

Submit China Arrival Card Online Through "Immigration Bureau 12367"

You can search "移民局12367" or "Immigration Bureau 12367" to download the app. If you have WeChat, search for it on WeChat mini-programs to submit.

Here's how:

1. Open 12367
2. Choose "Foreigner Service"
3. Choose "Arrival Card"
4. Choose "Entry Declaration"

The submission process is the same as the website. Just fill out your ID information, personal information, travel information, etc.

Who Can Be Exempted from Submitting China Arrival Card?

Foreigners in the following seven categories are exempt from filling out the form:

1. Those holding a Permanent Resident Identity Card of the People's Republic of China;
2. Those holding a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents (non-Chinese citizens);
3. Those holding a group visa or meeting the criteria for group visa-free entry;
4. Those transiting directly across the border for 24 hours without leaving the designated port area;
5. Those entering and exiting the country by cruise ship and returning on the same cruise ship;
6. Those entering through the fast track, and foreign employees of inbound and outbound transportation vehicles, etc.

Customs and Declarations

What You Can Bring into China?

• Personal items: Personal use are generally allowed without restriction.
• Duty-free items: Alcohol and tobacco products are allowed within limits (usually 1 liter of spirits, 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars, etc.).

Prohibited or Restricted Items

• Substances: Severe penalties for the possession of banned items.
• Pornographic materials: Any form of pornography is prohibited.
• Endangered species: Products made from endangered species, like ivory, are banned.
• Counterfeit goods: Bringing in counterfeit products is illegal.

Currency Declaration

• Chinese Yuan (CNY): If you’re carrying more than ¥20,000 (or equivalent), you must declare it at customs.
• Foreign currency: For amounts over USD 5,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, declaration is required.

Electronics & Goods for Commercial Use

If you’re carrying electronics or items that could be seen as for resale or commercial use (like multiple phones, cameras, etc.), you may need to declare them.

Health-Related Restrictions

Some medicines and health products are restricted or require special permits. It’s important to check if the items you're bringing require approval from Chinese authorities.

Agricultural and Food Products

Bringing in fresh food, meat, or dairy is heavily restricted. Always check the list of permitted and prohibited items before packing.

❤️Tip: Always err on caution when declaring items at customs. If in doubt, declare it to avoid fines or confiscation.

Tips for Your China Trip

• Download useful apps: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Amap is also convenient for navigation. You can set these up before arrival.
• Public transport: China has a fantastic public transportation system, especially the high-speed trains and subways in major cities. If you prefer car hailing, download Didi, China’s version of Uber, which is great for getting around.
• Internet and access: It’s easy to buy a China eSIM or local SIM card for internet access in China.