China Landing Card - Digital or Paper Format

Hello.

Do I get a paper China landing card on my flight and fill it in for immigration-Flying into Tianfu airport.

Or is there an official Chinese government website that allows you to fill your arrival details online?

Did online research but only came across websites that charged a fee to process the card. So that cannot be right.

Other travel websites said that some airports in China are using arrival QR codes but no mention of Tianfu airport using QR codes for arrivals.

Any guidance/advice on this would be welcome.

Thanks in advance.

For flights arriving at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), the standard procedure for foreign arrivals is still primarily paper-based. You will receive a China Arrival Card on the plane from your airline, which you must fill out and present at immigration. This card records your personal information, flight details, and intended address in China.

Currently, there is no official Chinese government website that allows you to fill out the arrival card online for free. Any sites that offer “online submission” and charge a fee are typically third-party services and not required for official entry. Using such services is optional, and most travelers do not use them.

Regarding digital or QR code options:

  • Some airports in China have trialed QR code or e-landing card systems, mainly at major hubs like Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, or Guangzhou Baiyun, but TFU does not widely advertise or support this as of now.
  • Even if QR code options were available, airlines may still distribute paper cards onboard for backup and consistency with immigration procedures.

Practical advice for your arrival at TFU:

  • Bring a pen to fill out the landing card quickly upon distribution on the plane.
  • Have your flight details, hotel address, and passport information ready before landing to expedite filling the card.
  • If you are concerned about digital submission, you may inquire with your airline before departure, but it is safest to assume a paper card will be required.

In summary, you will most likely need to complete the traditional paper landing card upon arrival at Chengdu TFU Airport. No official free online alternative exists, and any third-party “online forms” are not necessary for immigration processing.


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