7 best eSIMs for China in 2026
Compare 7 of the best eSIMs for China in 2026, including prices, data, internet access and coverage, plus tips for choosing and activating your plan today.
China arrival card for Singaporeans: how to complete it online
Most foreign travellers entering mainland China, including Singapore passport holders using visa-free entry, need to complete a China Arrival Card before passing through immigration unless an exemption applies.¹
You can submit the arrival information online before travelling. If you cannot complete it in advance, digital and paper submission options are also available at the border.
This guide explains who needs a China Arrival Card, where to find the official form, what information to prepare and how to complete it.
We'll also introduce the Wise card, a handy travel companion to make seamless card payments when you're overseas.
| Table of Contents |
|---|
What is the China Arrival Card?
The China Arrival Card is an entry declaration for foreign travellers arriving in mainland China.
It provides immigration authorities with information about your identity and visit. Depending on the current version of the form, you may be asked for details such as your:
- Passport information
- Flight, train, ship or other arrival details
- Port of entry
- Contact information
- Address or accommodation in China
- Purpose of travel
The arrival card is separate from a Chinese visa. Travelling visa-free does not automatically exempt you from completing the card.
Who needs a China Arrival Card?
Most foreign travellers entering mainland China need to provide arrival information unless they fall within one of the official exemption categories.¹
Do Singaporeans need a China Arrival Card?
Usually, yes. Singapore passport holders generally need to complete the China Arrival Card even when entering mainland China under a visa-free arrangement.
Visa-free entry determines whether you need a visa. The arrival card is a separate immigration declaration completed for your particular arrival.
Who is exempt from the China Arrival Card?
According to China’s National Immigration Administration, you may not need to complete the card if you:²
- Hold a Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of the People’s Republic of China
- Hold a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents who are non-Chinese citizens
- Travel under a group visa or qualify for group visa-free entry
- Transit directly for less than 24 hours without leaving the restricted area of the port
- Enter and leave on the same cruise ship
- Use an eligible immigration fast lane
- Work on an international aircraft, vessel, train or other exit-entry transport service
A normal stopover is not necessarily exempt. For example, you may still need to complete the card if you leave the airport transit area or formally enter mainland China.
Check the latest official guidance if you are unsure whether an exemption applies to your journey.
Where to fill in the China Arrival Card
You can submit your arrival information through several official channels:²
- The official China Arrival Card website
- The National Immigration Administration government-service platform
- The NIA 12367 app
- The official WeChat or Alipay mini-program
- An official QR code provided by immigration authorities
If you cannot submit the information online, you can complete it after arriving using the facilities available at the border. These may include QR codes, smart devices and paper Arrival Cards.
Is the China Arrival Card free?
Yes. Completing the official China Arrival Card is free.³
Be careful with unofficial websites that ask for payment to submit the form. China’s National Immigration Administration has warned travellers about fraudulent sites impersonating the official service.
Use an official government channel and check the website address before uploading your passport or personal information.
What do you need to complete the China Arrival Card?
Prepare your passport and confirmed travel details before starting the form.
You may need:
- A clear image of your passport biodata page
- Your arrival date
- Your flight, train or vessel number
- Your port of entry
- Your purpose of travel
- Your contact details
- The full address of your hotel or other accommodation in China
The online system may read some details from your passport image. Check every pre-filled field carefully and make sure the information matches your passport and travel bookings.
How to fill in the China Arrival Card online
The exact layout may change, but the general process is:
- Open the official China Arrival Card website.
- Start a new arrival declaration.
- Select your passport type and upload a clear image of the biodata page.
- Check the personal and passport information shown.
- Enter your arrival, contact and accommodation details.
- Review the declaration carefully.
- Submit the form.
- Save or screenshot the confirmation or QR code shown.
Keep the confirmation somewhere you can access without mobile data. You can also print a copy if you prefer.
When should you complete the China Arrival Card?
Complete it shortly before travelling, once your arrival and accommodation details are confirmed.
The official notices cited in this guide do not specify a universal 72-hour submission window. If you cannot complete the card before departure, you can use the official digital or paper options available after arriving in China.²
What if you cannot complete the form online?
You can still submit your arrival information at the border.
Depending on the airport or checkpoint, you may be able to:
- Scan an official QR code
- Use an immigration service device
- Complete a paper Arrival Card
Allow additional time if you plan to complete the declaration after landing. Having your hotel address and arrival details saved offline can make the process easier.
What if your travel details change?
Check whether the official portal allows you to update the declaration. If you cannot edit it, submit a new declaration using the correct information and retain the latest confirmation.
Make sure the declaration you present matches your actual passport, journey and accommodation details.
Do you need a new Arrival Card every time you enter China?
Yes. The arrival information relates to a specific entry into mainland China, including the relevant arrival date and transport details.
Complete another declaration when you leave and later re-enter mainland China. This can apply even during the same holiday.
For example, if you travel from mainland China to Hong Kong or Macau and then return to the mainland, prepare a new Arrival Card for the return journey unless an exemption applies.
What happens when you arrive in China?
Follow the signs and instructions provided by immigration officers at your airport or border crossing.
Depending on the location and process in use, you may need to:
- Present your digital confirmation or QR code
- Scan the code at a service device
- Print or sign an Arrival Card
- Complete a digital or paper declaration if you have not already submitted one
Keep your passport, arrival details and accommodation address accessible until you have cleared immigration.
China Arrival Card vs China visa
A China Arrival Card does not replace a visa when your nationality or purpose of travel requires one.
| Feature | China Arrival Card | China visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides information about a particular entry | Gives permission to travel when a visa is required |
| Who needs it | Most foreign arrivals unless exempt | Depends on nationality, trip length and purpose |
| Application | Online or at the border | Separate visa application process |
| Official cost | Free | Visa and service fees may apply |
| Singapore passport holders | Generally required unless exempt | Eligible short visits may be visa-free |
Singapore ordinary passport holders may qualify for visa-free short visits, but you may need a visa if you plan to stay longer, work or study. Read our guide to the China visa application process in Singapore for visa types, documents, fees and application steps.
For wider planning, see our guide to travelling to China from Singapore, covering entry requirements and practical travel information.
Information checked on 10 September 2026.
Pay in China by QR code or card with Wise
Wise customers can use the Wise app to scan supported Alipay+ QR codes and pay from an available Wise balance. Availability depends on your account country, currency and the type of QR code, so check the eligible countries and QR payment requirements before travelling.
You can also use a Wise card to pay for transport, meals, shopping and accommodation.
The Wise card lets you spend in 40+ currencies at the mid-market rate including MYR, JPY, CNY, and USD so you know you'll be getting a great deal in over 150+ countries. Simply create a free Wise account, order a card and top-up SGD to get started.
Virtual cards are free and can be added to your Google or Apple Pay wallet, while a physical Wise card can be ordered for a low fee of 8.50 SGD. Having a physical Wise card allows you to make chip and pin payments, as well as free ATM withdrawals up to the value of 100 SGD each month, before low fees start.
While abroad, you can choose to spend with directly in SGD and let auto-conversion do the trick, or convert to your desired currency with your Wise account. Either way, you’ll get the exchange rate you see on Google, with low, transparent fees from 0.26%.
Plus, you can activate Wise Interest to earn returns* on your SGD and other currencies, meaning your travel money could be growing right up until you spend it.
*Growth is not guaranteed. Capital at risk.
Sources:
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
Money without borders
Find out more
China visa Singapore: visa-free rules, requirements and application
Do Singaporeans need a visa for China? Learn about the 30-day visa-free rule, China visa requirements, fees, processing time and how to apply in Singapore.
How to Use Alipay in China: A Guide for Singapore Travellers
Learn how to set up and use Alipay in China from Singapore, link a Singapore card, make QR payments and understand the possible fees and limits.
Tomorrowland China 2026: festival dates, tickets, lineup and travel costs
Tomorrowland China returns to Shanghai on 17–18 October 2026. Learn about tickets, location, prices, travel costs, payment methods and budgeting in CNY.
How to Use Your Wise Card in China
Travelling from Singapore to China? Learn how to use your Wise card for payments, ATM withdrawals, and Alipay or WeChat Pay, with transparent fees.
What is digital yuan (e-CNY) and how to use it
Learn what the digital yuan (e-CNY) is, how it works, and how foreigners can use it in China. Compare e-CNY with Alipay and WeChat Pay.
