Entering China: What to Expect at the Border

Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming. Here's a clear, step-by-step guide to crossing into China so you know exactly what to expect.

Before You Land

On international flights to China, you'll receive an Arrival Card (入境卡). Fill it in completely in English:

• Your name (exactly as in your passport)
• Passport number
• Flight number
• Purpose of visit (Tourism)
• Address in China (your first hotel's address)
• Date of departure

Step 1: Health Check

Some airports have health screening stations. Temperature checks may be conducted. Have your health documentation ready if required.

Step 2: Immigration (入境检查)

Follow signs to Immigration or 入境检查.

• Join the correct queue: "Foreign Passport" lanes are marked
• Automatic gates: Some airports have e-gates for eligible passport holders — look for the automated immigration kiosks
• Prepare: Have your passport, visa, and completed arrival card ready
• The officer will take your fingerprints and photo
• Your passport will be stamped with your entry date and permitted stay duration

Step 3: Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the designated carousel shown on the arrivals board.

Step 4: Customs

You'll pass through either:

• Green channel (无申报): Nothing to declare
• Red channel (有申报): Goods to declare

What to declare:

• Cash over USD 5,000 (or equivalent)
• Valuables and electronics for commercial purposes
• Medications exceeding personal use amounts

Prohibited items include: firearms, certain publications, large quantities of certain foods.

Step 5: Exit Arrivals Hall

Once through customs, you're in China! You'll find:

• Ground transportation: Taxi counters, airport express trains, shuttle buses
• Currency exchange: Bank of China counters accept major currencies
• SIM card kiosks: China Unicom and China Mobile have counters

Registration at Your Hotel

By Chinese law, all visitors must register with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival:

• Hotels do this automatically when you check in with your passport
• If staying in a private home or rental, you must register at the nearest local police station (派出所)

Keep your passport and visa handy throughout your trip — you'll need them for hotel check-ins, train tickets, and some tourist attractions.

Tips for Smooth Entry

• Have your hotel's address in Chinese — the officer or taxi driver may need it
• Keep arrival card safe — you may need it at your hotel
• Charge your phone — you'll want it working immediately for maps and translation
• Queue patiently — immigration lines at major airports can be 30-60 minutes

Welcome to China — your adventure begins here!