Mainland China Entry Guide | Hong Kong to Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area

Why complete your arrival card in advance?

The arrival card provides mainland China immigration authorities with traveller and arrival information for your trip. If you need to complete one, filling it in ahead of time can help you arrive better prepared:

• Spend less time filling in forms at the border: Complete your details beforehand so you do not have to look up information and fill in the form when you arrive.
• Check your details before travelling: Allow time to review your passport details, accommodation address and itinerary, helping reduce omissions or errors.
• Help family members prepare: Explain the form requirements in advance and help each traveller have their information ready.

Completing the card in advance can reduce preparation at the border, but does not provide priority clearance or guarantee shorter queues or checks. Actual crossing times depend on passenger numbers and arrangements at the port.

An arrival card records arrival information. It does not replace a visa or other entry requirements and does not constitute approval to enter.

Who needs to complete an arrival card?

Foreign nationals entering mainland China should complete an arrival card unless an official exemption applies. The published exemptions include:

• Holders of a Permanent Residence ID Card for Foreigners of the People’s Republic of China.
• Holders of a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Non-Chinese Citizens).
• Travellers holding a group visa or eligible for visa-free entry as a group.
• Travellers in direct transit for 24 hours who remain within the designated port area.
• Cruise passengers entering and leaving on the same cruise ship.
• Travellers entering through an e-channel.
• Foreign crew members of international transport services.

If you are unsure whether an exemption applies, contact the National Immigration Administration’s 12367 hotline or ask border inspection staff.

Before-you-travel checklist

• A valid passport or applicable travel document.
• Any visa or other evidence of entry eligibility required for your trip.
• Your expected entry date, destination and itinerary.
• Your accommodation address and contact details in mainland China.
• Your confirmed transfer arrangements and driver’s contact details.

Follow the actual information requirements shown in the official form.

At the border

Travel from Hong Kong to mainland China generally involves Hong Kong departure checks and mainland China entry checks, with customs checks as required. Keep your documents ready and follow staff instructions. Whether you need to leave the vehicle, take your luggage with you, and where you rejoin the vehicle depends on the crossing and arrangements that day. Follow your driver’s directions and allow extra time for onward plans.