As China's travel infrastructure continues to evolve into a fully integrated digital ecosystem, one major shift is already transforming the arrival experience—the transition from the traditional paper “Blue Card” to the China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC).
At TravelChinaService (TCS), we work on the ground across every major gateway in China. For travel agents and professional partners, understanding the CDAC is no longer optional—it is a critical operational detail that directly impacts client experience upon arrival.
At key entry hubs such as Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport, properly prepared travelers consistently move faster, experience less stress, and begin their journey on a positive note.
This guide reflects our on-the-ground expertise—helping you advise clients with precision, prevent avoidable delays, and deliver a seamless China arrival experience.
What is the China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC)?
The China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC) is an official electronic entry declaration system introduced by the National Immigration Administration.
The China Digital Arrival Card (CDAC)
It allows international travelers to submit their arrival information digitally before landing, replacing the need to complete paper forms during the flight or at immigration counters.
Once submitted, the system generates a unique QR code, which is scanned by immigration officers upon entry.
Why This Matters for Travel Agents
From a ground-handling perspective, the CDAC is one of the first operational checkpoints that defines a client's experience in China.
Key Advantages
• Faster Processing
Pre-submitted QR codes allow access to dedicated e-lanes or smart entry channels in major airports
• Reduced Errors
Built-in OCR (Optical Character Recognition) extracts passport data, minimizing manual mistakes
• Pre-Arrival Control
Forms can be completed up to 72 hours before arrival, giving agents time to verify accuracy
TCS Operational Insight
In our experience, most arrival issues are not caused by immigration complexity—but by lack of preparation.
The CDAC has effectively become an “arrival experience filter”:
- Well-prepared clients 👉 smooth, efficient entry
- Unprepared clients 👉 confusion, delays, and immediate dissatisfaction
How Travel China Service Advises Clients to Complete CDAC
The CDAC is 100% free and must only be completed through official government channels.
Official Access Points
• Web Portal:
National Immigration Administration (NIA) Portal
• Mobile App: NIA 12367
• Mini-Programs within: WeChat / Alipay
TCS Advisory:
We strongly recommend avoiding third-party “processing services,” as they are unnecessary and may create confusion or additional cost.
Step-by-Step CDAC Submission Process
1. Identity Verification
Clients upload a clear image of their passport data page.
Upload a photo of passport page
The system will automatically populate:
• Full name
• Date of birth
• Passport number
Always manually verify accuracy—especially the common “O” vs “0” issue.
Basic Information Filling
Basic Information Filling
2. Travel Logistics
Clients must enter:
• Flight number (e.g., CA988)
• Arrival port (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou)
• Arrival date
Travel Information Filling
3. Visa or Entry Status
Clients must select the correct entry category:
• Visa holders
• 30-Day Visa-Free Entry (where applicable)
• 240-Hour Transit Visa-Free Entry
Misclassification here is one of the most common causes of delays.
4. Accommodation Details (Mandatory)
A complete and verifiable first-night address is required.
TCS Best Practice:
Provide your clients with confirmed hotel details in advance to ensure accuracy.
5. Submit & QR Code Generation
Once submitted:
• A QR code is generated instantly
Clients should:
• Screenshot the QR code
• Save it offline
• Carry a printed backup copy
Take a screenshot of the QR code
Who Does NOT Need to Submit a CDAC?
Based on current policy, the following travelers are generally exempt:
• Holders of Chinese Foreign Permanent Resident ID Cards
• Individuals with Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao residents
• Travelers under group visa arrangements or group visa-free policies
• Transit passengers remaining within the airport for less than 24 hours
Common Mistakes We See on the Ground (And How to Prevent Them)
1. OCR Errors (O vs 0)
- Issue: Passport numbers misread
- Solution: Manual verification before submission
2. No Offline QR Code
- Issue: Airport Wi-Fi instability
- Solution: Save locally + print backup
3. Incorrect Entry Type
- Issue: Wrong visa category selected
- Solution: Agent pre-verification is essential
4. Re-Entry Misunderstanding
- Issue: Clients assume one submission covers multiple entries
Reality:
The CDAC is valid for single entry only.
If clients travel to Hong Kong or Macao and return:
• A new CDAC must be submitted
Why This Matters for Your Agency
In today's China travel environment, success is defined not just by itinerary design—but by execution precision.
A poorly managed arrival:
• Creates immediate stress
• Impacts client perception
• Increases on-ground support pressure
A well-managed arrival:
• Builds confidence
• Enhances overall trip satisfaction
• Reinforces your professional credibility
