Fingerprints now required on arrival

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Chinese immigration authorities have begun collecting fingerprints of all travelers aged 14 to 70 entering the country.

What does the change mean? Foreign nationals should be aware of the new requirement and plan to register their fingerprints electronically upon arrival.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate. The policy took effect April 28.  
• Visas/permits affected: All visas.
• Who is affected: All foreign nationals aged 14 to 70. (Diplomatic passport holders are exempt.)
• Next steps: Foreign nationals should follow signs to the self-registration area to give their digital fingerprints following on-screen prompts, then take the receipt to present to border control officers.

BAL Analysis: To avoid entry delays, travelers should be sure to complete the fingerprint procedures upon arriving in China.  

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in China. For additional information, please contact china@bal.com.

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