PVG - Shanghai pudong airport

Question

I am traveling to china for the first time. I don't need a visa because my country got visa-free access to china for a month. I will arrive at PVG shanghai pudong Airport. Can anyone advise what I should do once I arrive at the airport? Will I get an arrival card to fill out on the plane? What is the customs clearance process like? If someone could explain the process step by step before entering the country, I would be really grateful :) I am traveling with a chinese friend and he has made an invitation letter, so I don't think I need to explain much if asked? I am going to china as a tourist for a month and staying at my friend's family's home.

Answer

Arriving at Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) as a first-time visitor with visa-free access for up to 30 days involves several steps. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly:

1. Disembark the plane: Follow the signs for “Arrivals” and proceed towards immigration. Most international flights will provide an arrival card on the plane. If not, you can find them near the immigration counters.

2. Fill out the arrival card: The card asks for basic personal information such as your name, passport number, flight details, and address of stay in China. Since you are staying at a friend’s home, fill in their address accurately. Your friend’s invitation letter can help if the officer asks for clarification.

3. Proceed to immigration: Queue at the counters for foreigners. You will present your passport, arrival card, and potentially the invitation letter. The officer may ask basic questions such as purpose of visit and duration of stay. Be honest and concise; having the invitation letter usually simplifies the process.

4. Immigration clearance: The officer will review your documents, may take a photo or fingerprints, and stamp your passport with entry details, indicating the allowed stay period.

5. Baggage claim: After immigration, follow signs to baggage claim and collect your checked luggage.

6. Customs declaration: Proceed to the customs area. You may need to fill out a customs declaration form if you are carrying certain goods or large amounts of currency. For typical tourist visits, you can usually go through the “Nothing to Declare” line.

7. Exit the airport: Once through customs, you can exit into the arrivals hall. Here you can meet your friend, take a taxi, or use the metro to reach your destination.

Tip: Keep your passport and arrival card handy throughout the process.
Tip: Follow signage carefully; Pudong Airport is large, but well-marked in English.
Tip: If asked about accommodation, state your friend’s address clearly; the invitation letter can be shown if necessary.

In summary, the process involves disembarking, completing the arrival card, passing immigration, collecting luggage, clearing customs, and exiting. Having an invitation letter and accurate address of stay makes the experience straightforward, especially for a tourist visit under the 30-day visa-free policy.

PVG - Shanghai pudong airport

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