Everything you need to do before you land, at the airport, and on your first day in China — explained simply, step by step.
China now uses a digital arrival card instead of a paper form. You fill it in online — ideally before you get on your flight. Here is exactly how to do it.
The digital arrival card can be completed on any phone, tablet, or computer. You can do it at home up to 3 days before you travel, or on the plane using the airline's Wi-Fi.
Go to haiguan.gov.cn — this is the official Chinese Customs website. Look for the section called "International Travel Health Declaration" or "Arrival Declaration". Always use the official site to stay safe.
Choose your passport country from the drop-down list. Select "Tourist" as your reason for visiting. If you need reading glasses, now is a good time to put them on — the text can be small!
Enter your full name exactly as it appears in your passport. Fill in your passport number, date of birth, and flight number. Double-check everything carefully before moving on.
Type the name and address of your first hotel in China. If you are staying with friends or family, use their address. This is the address where you will be staying on your first night.
After submitting, you will receive a QR code. Take a screenshot of it and save it to your phone's photo album. Print it if you can — customs officers will scan it when you arrive.
Requirements can change. Always check the latest information at china.embassy.gov or your country's foreign ministry website before you travel. We recommend doing this no more than a week before your departure.
China is largely a cashless society. Most shops, restaurants, and taxis prefer digital payment over cash. The two main apps are Alipay and WeChat Pay. Here's how to set one up before you go.
Alipay is the most widely accepted option for international visitors. It has an "International Edition" specifically designed for tourists, which accepts foreign bank cards (Visa & Mastercard). We recommend starting with Alipay.
Search for "Alipay" in your phone's App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android). Download and install the app. It is free.
Open the app and tap "Sign Up". Enter your mobile phone number and your email address. You'll receive a verification code by text message — type it in to confirm your number.
Tap "My" at the bottom, then "Bank Cards". Add your Visa or Mastercard debit or credit card. Alipay International Edition accepts most major foreign cards. Always check your bank allows international use.
To pay, open Alipay and tap the green "Pay" button. Show the QR code on your screen to the shopkeeper, or scan their QR code with your phone camera. Payment is instant — very easy!
While most places accept Alipay, it's wise to carry 500–1,000 Chinese Yuan (CNY) in cash for small markets, older restaurants, or any situation where apps don't work. You can exchange currency at the airport or at bank branches.
Staying connected in China takes a little advance planning because many apps you use at home (like Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram) are blocked in China. Here are the two simplest options.
You can buy special SIM cards at Chinese airports (look for China Mobile or China Unicom counters) or order them online before you travel. Tourist SIM cards usually include a VPN, which lets you access your normal apps from home.
Cost: Around £15–£30 / $20–$40 for a 30-day data plan.
If your home phone plan works internationally, you can download a VPN app before you leave home. A VPN lets you access blocked websites and apps while in China.
Recommended VPNs: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Astrill. Download and test it at home first!
You cannot download VPN apps once you are inside China because the app stores are restricted. Download it at home, test it works, and make sure your account is active before you travel.
Use this checklist as you come through the airport. Tick each step off as you complete it. Easy!
Have your QR code ready on your phone screen — take a screenshot so you can show it even without Wi-Fi.
Passport open at the photo page — hold it with your QR code for faster processing at the immigration desk.
Know your hotel name and address in Chinese — immigration officers may ask where you are staying. Write it down on paper as backup.
Customs declaration — you may need to declare items worth over ¥5,000 (about £550 / $700). If unsure, use the "nothing to declare" green lane for most tourist arrivals.
Exchange some cash — look for the Bank of China or ICBC exchange counter after customs. Get 500–1,000 CNY for your first day.
Buy your SIM card or check your VPN — do this before you leave the airport while the Wi-Fi is still free and fast.
Arrange your transfer to the hotel — use the Didi app (like Uber) for taxis, or look for airport metro/express train signs.
Getting through a Chinese airport is much easier than most people expect. Staff are helpful and used to international visitors. Relax, follow the signs, and enjoy your adventure in China!
Next, learn how to get discounts and save money during your stay:
🏷️ Discounts & Memberships Guide →