How strict are the checks when entering China really? What’s the deal with the new digital Arrival Card? In this article, I’ll show you step-by-step what the immigration procedure at an airport in China looks like in 2026. First things first: It’s not as daunting as it sounds!
The Digital Arrival Card: Preparation is Everything
Probably the most important change compared to the past: the old-fashioned paper card is history. China completely digitized the process in 2026. You now conveniently enter your data online via the official website of the immigration authorities and receive a QR code as confirmation.
It’s highly recommended to fill out this digital Arrival Card in peace from home before your flight. While you technically only need it upon arrival in China, you definitely don’t want to spend precious time typing after a long-haul flight. Additionally, public Wi-Fi at Chinese airports is often tricky and usually requires a local phone number for registration. A vital tip from me: Make sure to use only the official website for the digital Arrival Card (external link) and don’t fall for third-party providers that often appear at the top of Google ads. You’ll end up paying unnecessary fees there and never know exactly what happens to your sensitive passport data. Take a screenshot of the QR code after filling it out—that way, you have it ready offline at all times.
Health Check Upon Arrival at the Airport in China
As soon as you leave the plane, the path leads you to the Health Inspection. This part of the airport procedure when taking the immigration to China is usually very low-key. You simply walk through gates equipped with thermal imaging cameras. These measure your body temperature as you pass by.
Make sure to briefly remove any headwear so the sensors have a clear view. If the camera registers an increased temperature, you will be asked to step aside for a manual measurement. In case of a fever, further examinations or, in extreme cases, quarantine can be ordered. So, if you’re already feeling unwell before departure, consider carefully whether you want to start the trip.
Fingerprint Stations for First-Time Visitors
Before you head to the actual passport control, you’ll encounter a row of stations for biometric registration. This applies to everyone traveling to China for the first time or anyone with a new passport. The process is self-explanatory: you scan your passport, and the device guides you via voice output and display instructions to scan your fingerprints. At the end, you’ll receive a small receipt, which you can simply keep with your documents.
Passport Control Procedure
Now follows the heart of the immigration process. Look for the signs for foreigners (外国人, wàiguó rén) to end up in the correct queue. At the manual passport control, you present your passport. Usually, you don’t even need to actively show the QR code of your digital Arrival Card, as your data is already linked to your passport number in the system. However, keep the screenshot ready just in case the officer asks for it.
At the counter, a photo of your face will be taken, and occasionally individual fingerprints will be cross-checked again. Once the stamp lands in your passport, you’ve officially made it: Welcome to China!
Customs and Luggage Check
After you’ve picked up your luggage from the carousel, the final step is customs control. In China, it is common for all suitcases to be passed through large X-ray machines at the exit once more. Just follow the instructions of the staff here and place your luggage on the conveyor belt if requested. Once you’ve passed the X-ray station, the sliding door to the public terminal opens, and you’re standing right in the middle of China’s vibrant life.
My Personal Conclusion on the Immigration Procedure at the Airport in China
I know that entering a country with such strict rules can seem intimidating at first. But my experience shows: the immigration procedure at the airport in China in 2026 is extremely modern and often completed faster than at some European airports. The people on-site are helpful, and as long as you have your digital Arrival Card prepared, everything runs like clockwork.
Now that you’re ready for your entry into China, why not check out my overview of the top travel destinations in China? Do you have any questions about the process or have you just entered the country yourself? Feel free to share your experiences with our community in the comments!
Note: This article is for general information purposes only and reflects my personal experiences. It does not claim to be complete or up-to-date. Since entry and security regulations can change at short notice, this report does not replace a case-specific check of current daily requirements. Binding information is provided exclusively by the relevant authorities (e.g., the embassy or the foreign office). Liability for the content is excluded.