China Entry Requirements for Indian Travelers
We are an independent information and assistance service, not the Chinese government or the National Immigration Administration.
Information about this new digital system is still being updated, and more details are expected around and after November 20, 2025.
For Indian travelers planning a trip to China, applying for a visa is one of the key entry steps before departure. There are other key documents you’ll need for your visit.
This page explains what Indian passport holders need to travel to China, including visa requirements, the China Arrival Card, and the key documents to present at check-in and immigration.
What Indian Citizens Must Prepare Before Flying to China
Before boarding a flight to China, check that you have all the required documentation. Indian travelers should have:
- Indian passport with at least 6 months' validity
- Approved Chinese visa for your travel purpose
- Completed China Arrival Card
- Flight and accommodation details
- Supporting documents, depending on your visa type (invitation letter, itinerary, etc.)
Airlines typically check these key documents at check-in, and missing or incorrect details can result in denied boarding. Taking the time to prepare all your documents in advance is recommended for a smooth journey.
Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for China?
Yes, Indian citizens must get a visa before traveling to China. There is currently no visa-free or visa on arrival option for standard tourist visits if you have an Indian passport.
The most common visa types for Indian travelers include:
- Tourist visa (L Visa) – for leisure travel
- Business visa (M Visa) – for commercial visits
- Student or work visas – depending on long-term stays
Your visa must be approved before departure. You’ll need to present it both at check-in and on arrival in China.
Your visa dictates how long you can stay, whether you can make multiple visits, and what type of activities you can take part in.
Other requirements, like the China Arrival Card, don’t replace your visa. They’re additional documents that authorities use in the immigration and customs process.
Embassy visits for Chinese visas
Indian citizens need to visit an embassy or a visa center to get a travel permit for China. You usually need to book an appointment to submit your documents in person.
This is handled through Chinese Visa Application Service Centers (CVASC) rather than directly at the embassy in most cases. These centers are located in major cities, including:
- New Delhi
- Mumbai
- Kolkata
Chinese Consulates in cities like Mumbai and Kolkata also oversee applications for various types of visas.
Other documents, like the Arrival Card, do not require an embassy visit. The process is 100% online.
The China Arrival Card Explained for Indian Citizens
The China Arrival Card is a mandatory entry form that must be completed by all incoming travelers, including Indian citizens.
It’s used by immigration authorities to collect key travel and personal information before you enter the country.
To be valid, your Arrival Card must be filled out accurately and fully. To avoid delays, you’re recommended to complete it before you travel. The form contains sections on:
- Personal details (name, passport number, nationality)
- Flight information
- Accommodation details in China
- Purpose of your visit
Small errors, such as mismatched passport numbers or incorrect hotel details, can slow down the entry process.
We help Indian travelers prepare this step correctly in advance, reducing last minute stress and helping make sure that your Arrival Card is consistent with your other travel documents.
How ArrivalCardChina.com Supports Indian Travelers
We help travelers who want a smoother and more reliable preparation process before visiting China. We help you complete your Arrival Card hassle-free, including:
- A clear, guided process that’s quick and easy to go through
- Review to make sure all your information has been added accurately
- Correction of last-minute errors that can affect boarding or entry
- Convenient delivery of your approved document by email
We designed our platform to help you avoid common mistakes that may otherwise lead to delays.
At checkout, you can also add Insurance, which covers your application fee if your plans change, or Priority Processing, for delivery of your approved Arrival Card in one hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will airlines check my documents before I board for China?
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Yes, most airlines check passports and visas before allowing you to board. If the required documents are missing or incorrect, you may be denied boarding.
Can I travel to China with a one-way ticket as an Indian citizen?
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In most cases, proof of onward or return travel is requested at the Chinese border. It’s safer to have a confirmed itinerary and flight booking to pass through immigration controls.
Do I need a separate Arrival Card for each family member?
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Yes, all travelers, including children, must have their own Arrival Card. You can complete an application on behalf of minors in your party using our platform.
What happens if I make a mistake on the Arrival Card?
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All your documentation must be complete and consistent when you arrive in China. If you notice a mistake on your Arrival Card, contact us as soon as possible. We’ll help you with the next steps.
Is the Arrival Card required for both entry and exit?
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For travel to China, you need a completed Arrival Card. You must fill out a new form each time you enter the country. A new form is not required for exit.