China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC) 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Travelers
- Xavi
- 11 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 16 minutes ago
BEIJING, August 18, 2026 — China has officially replaced its traditional paper arrival card with a digital system known as the China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC), launched by the National Immigration Administration (NIA) on November 20, 2025 .
The system applies to virtually all foreign nationals entering China by air, land, or sea — including tourists, business travelers, students, and those entering under visa-free waivers or transit privileges .
What Is the China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC)?
The CDAC is an online declaration form that replaces the traditional paper arrival card previously handed out on airplanes or at immigration counters. It allows travelers to submit their entry information digitally before arrival, streamlining the border inspection process .
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Aspect | Details |
Launch Date | November 20, 2025 |
Official Name | China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC) / Foreigner Arrival Card |
Managing Authority | National Immigration Administration (NIA) |
Cost | Free of charge |
Submission Window | Up to 72 hours before arrival |
Applies To | All foreign nationals arriving by air, land, or sea |
Important: The CDAC is completely free. Beware of scam websites attempting to charge fees for the service .
Who Needs to Complete the CDAC?
Must Complete
The CDAC is required for virtually all foreign nationals entering China, including:
Tourists
Business travelers
Students
Those utilizing visa-free waivers or transit privileges (24/144-hour) who wish to leave the airport
Exemptions
The following categories are exempt from completing the arrival card :
Exempt Category | Details |
Foreign Permanent Residents | Holders of a valid Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card |
Hong Kong/Macao Travel Permit Holders | Holders of a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese citizens) |
Group Visa Holders | Holders of a group visa or those eligible for group visa-free entry |
24-Hour Direct Transit | Passengers transiting within 24 hours without leaving the port's restricted area |
Cruise Passengers | Passengers entering and exiting on the same cruise ship |
E-Channel Users | Travelers entering through fast-track channels |
Transport Crew | Foreign crew members of cross-border transport vehicles |
How to Complete the CDAC: Three Methods
Method 1: Pre-Arrival (Highly Recommended)
Fill out the form 24 to 72 hours before arrival .
Official Platforms (100% Free):
Platform | Access Method |
Official Website | |
Mobile App | Download "NIA 12367" app (Android: scan QR code; iOS/HarmonyOS: app store) |
WeChat Mini Program | Look up "NIA 12367" on WeChat |
Alipay Mini Program | Look up "NIA 12367" in Alipay |
What happens after submission:
You receive a confirmation QR code via email or in-app
Save the QR code on your phone
Show it to immigration officers at border control
Method 2: Digital on Arrival
If you didn't complete the form in advance, you can still submit digitally upon arrival :
Option | Description |
Scan QR Code | Use your phone to scan QR codes displayed at the airport |
Smart Kiosk | Use self-service kiosks at the checkpoint |
Method 3: Paper on Arrival
Paper-based arrival cards remain available as a backup at immigration desks for travelers who lack internet access or a smartphone .
Information Required for the CDAC
You will need to provide the following information :
Information Required | Details |
Full Name | As shown on your passport |
Passport Number | From your valid passport |
Nationality | As shown on your passport |
Arrival Flight Number | Flight or vessel number |
Place of Stay in China | Hotel address or residence details |
Recent Travel History | Countries visited before arriving in China |
Health Declaration Information | Health status declaration |
Official Platforms (100% Free)
Platform | Access |
Official Website | |
NIA 12367 App | Download from app stores (Android/iOS/HarmonyOS) |
WeChat Mini Program | Search for "NIA 12367" in WeChat |
Alipay Mini Program | Search for "NIA 12367" in Alipay |
Remember: The NIA 12367 hotline also offers multilingual services, including French and other languages, for assistance .
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Quick Reference Summary
Aspect | Details |
System Name | China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC) |
Launch Date | November 20, 2025 |
Cost | Free |
Submission Window | Up to 72 hours before arrival |
Official Website | |
Mobile App | NIA 12367 |
WeChat/Alipay | Look up "NIA 12367" |
Exemptions | Permanent residents, group visa holders, 24-hour transit passengers, and others |
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