Traveling to China is an exciting prospect, whether for business, tourism, or visiting family. To improve customs efficiency and align with international standards, China has implemented significant updates to its entry process. Understanding the latest rules before you board is essential for ensuring a smooth arrival.
Key Points
- Digital Entry Card: Starting November 20, 2025, travelers can declare entry information online in advance, replacing traditional paper forms.
- Health Declaration: All travelers must still complete the Customs Health Declaration within 24 hours of arrival to obtain a QR code (the “Black Code”).
- Declaration Exemptions: Seven categories of personnel, including foreigners holding Chinese permanent residence cards, are exempt from filling out entry declaration information.
- Customs Channels: Use the Red Channel if you have goods to declare; otherwise, use the Green Channel.
- Cash Limits: Carrying more than USD $5,000 in foreign currency or RMB 20,000 in cash must be declared.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the latest entry requirements, focusing on the new digital entry card system while covering health declarations and customs regulations to ensure you clear Chinese border control smoothly.
1. Entry Cards and Health Declarations: Going Digital
To streamline procedures and reduce waiting times, China has digitized the entry declaration process.
The New Digital Entry Card System
From November 20, 2025, foreign travelers will no longer need to fill out paper entry cards upon arrival. You can submit your information online in advance through the following channels:
- National Immigration Administration (NIA) Official Website
- National Government Service Platform
- “NIA 12367” Mobile App
- WeChat and Alipay Mini Programs
Declaring in advance can help immigration officers reduce manual processing time by 30 to 60 seconds per traveler, effectively relieving queue pressure at airports during peak hours. It is recommended that you take a screenshot of the confirmation page after submission. If you forget to declare in advance, you can still fill it out upon arrival at the port by scanning a QR code or using self-service terminals.
The following seven categories of personnel are exempt from declaring entry information:
- Foreigners holding Chinese Permanent Residence ID Cards
- Travelers in direct transit within 24 hours who do not leave the port area
- Passengers entering and exiting on the same cruise ship
- Other personnel who meet specific exemption conditions
Health Declaration (“Black Code”)
All inbound travelers must still complete the Customs Health Declaration within 24 hours prior to arrival.
- How to Declare: Complete via the “Customs Pocket Declaration” WeChat mini-program or the “China Customs” App.
- Timing: Be sure to fill this out within 24 hours of arrival, as the generated QR code (often called the “Black Code”) is only valid for 24 hours.
- Process: Once submitted, you will receive a QR code. Take a screenshot immediately, as you will need to scan this code at automated gates before passing through immigration.
2. Customs Declarations: What You Need to Declare
After clearing immigration and collecting your baggage, you will pass through customs. China uses a dual-channel system:
- Green Channel: For travelers with “Nothing to Declare.”
- Red Channel: For travelers carrying goods that require declaration.
Currency Limits
You must declare your cash if you are carrying more than:
- USD $5,000 (or equivalent in foreign currency)
- RMB 20,000
Duty-Free Allowances
For personal use, you are generally allowed to bring:
- Alcohol: Up to 1,500ml of alcoholic beverages (with an alcohol content of 12% or above).
- Tobacco: Up to 400 cigarettes, 100 cigars, or 500 grams of tobacco.
3. Prohibited and Restricted Items
China strictly enforces rules on items prohibited from entering the country. Avoid carrying the following to prevent delays or legal issues:
- Fresh Food: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats (raw or cooked) are generally prohibited.
- Plants and Seeds: To protect local agriculture, bringing in soil, seeds, or live plants is forbidden without a special permit.
- Media Content: Books, magazines, or hard drives containing content detrimental to China’s politics, culture, or morals are prohibited.
- Drugs: China has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs, with severe penalties.
4. Practical Tips for a Smooth Entry
Prepare in Advance
Before traveling, ensure your briefing includes the URL or QR code for the declaration website. It is highly recommended that travelers screenshot their submission confirmation to ensure smooth clearance.
Download Key Apps
Download WeChat, Alipay, or the “NIA 12367” App in advance. These apps are essential tools for travel and completing various declarations in China.
Be Patient and Polite
Border control officers are professional but strict. Answer questions directly and honestly. If asked to open your luggage for inspection, please cooperate calmly.
Final Thoughts
China’s entry process is becoming “smarter” and more convenient. By completing the digital entry card and health declaration online in advance, you can enjoy a more efficient and seamless customs experience.
Disclaimer: Immigration and customs policies are subject to change without notice. Please verify the latest information with official government sources or your local Chinese consulate before traveling.