China arrival card website not loading on s.nia.gov.cn? Use the computer link on a PC and the phone link on a mobile, and if the online form still doesn’t open, you can fill in a card at the port. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) runs the form at https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/.
This is an independent guide, not a government site. Check dates and rules on the NIA portal before you travel.
China Arrival Card Website Not Loading: Causes
On a computer, open https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/. On a phone, use https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPhone, which may redirect to the PC version.
Foreign travellers must fill in the arrival card whether or not they hold a visa, and the online form can be completed before arriving in China. It has applied since 20 November 2025. Seven groups are exempt:
- Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card holders
- Mainland Travel Permit holders (Hong Kong/Macao residents who aren’t Chinese citizens)
- Group visa or group visa-free holders
- Direct transit within 24 hours without leaving the restricted port area
- Same-cruise-ship entry and exit
- Fast-lane clearance passengers
- Foreign employees of exit-entry transport vehicles
Not sure you’re exempt? Check this list of exempt travellers and required documents before you troubleshoot.
How to Fix s.nia.gov.cn Not Loading
Start by making sure you’re using the right address for your device: the PC link on a computer and the phone link on a mobile. If the page still won’t open, the NIA also offers other filing channels, including the NIA 12367 app, WeChat and Alipay mini-programs, and the NIA Government Service Platform.
If none of the online channels work, you can complete the card when you arrive, as travellers who can’t file online in advance can do so at the port.
Passport Photo Requirements
The online form requires a clear photo of your passport’s identity page, along with the other documents you need to fill in the China arrival card.
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Photo rejected | Unclear image | Retake a clear photo of the identity page |
| Wrong fields | Check names, passport number and dates (YYYY-MM-DD) | Check every field before submitting |
If the China Arrival Card Website Stays Down
Travellers who can’t file online in advance can fill in a paper arrival card at the port.
Before you fly
Try both the PC and phone addresses, and check the alternative filing channels.
At UK check-in
Bring your passport and booking details with you.
After landing
Ask for a paper card. At the port, you can also file using smart devices or by scanning a QR code.
Save your QR code receipt at once by screenshot, Download to Local or Send to Email.
Common Mistakes and Easily Confused Documents
- Mistyping the flight number or first-night hotel address. Check both against your booking.
- Be wary of lookalike sites. Check that the address is s.nia.gov.cn, and verify rules on the NIA site.
These documents often get confused:
| Document | What it is | When you need it |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Identifies you | Required for entry |
| Visa or visa-free status | Separate from the card | You fill in the card either way |
| Customs declaration | A separate form | Check the rules for declarable goods |
| Accommodation registration | Hotels register you at check-in | For private stays, check the registration rules |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the China arrival card website not loading on s.nia.gov.cn?
Use the computer link on a PC and the phone link on a mobile. If the online form doesn’t open, the NIA also allows filling in at the port, by scanning a QR code, using smart devices there, or with a paper card.
What’s the correct web address?
Use https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/ on a computer and https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPhone on a phone. Holders of border resident certificates from the DPRK, Mongolia, Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar, Laos or Vietnam use a separate form on the same site.
What if the SMS code never arrives?
If you can’t complete the form in your browser, try another filing channel: the NIA 12367 app, the WeChat or Alipay mini-programs, or the NIA Government Service Platform. You can also fill in a paper arrival card at the port.
Why does my passport photo keep failing?
Make sure the photo clearly shows the identity page of your passport, as the online form requires.
Can I use a paper card if the China arrival card website isn’t loading on s.nia.gov.cn?
Yes. Travellers who couldn’t file online in advance can fill in a paper arrival card at the port. Have your passport, flight number and first accommodation address ready.
Do I need to turn off my VPN?
If the page won’t open in your browser, try the mobile address instead of the PC one, use another filing channel such as the NIA 12367 app, or fill in a card at the port.
Can I use WeChat or Alipay instead?
Yes. The filing channels include the NIA 12367 app, WeChat and Alipay mini-programs, and the NIA Government Service Platform.
What if I entered the wrong flight number?
Check your flight number and first accommodation address against your booking before you submit, and check the details on your receipt before you fly.
Sources and Further Reading
Rules can change, so check the NIA portal before you travel.
