The arrival flow is straightforward: disembark → health quarantine (temperature/health declaration) → immigration (passport and visa check) → baggage → customs declaration → exit.
Health declaration: arrivals still use the "Customs Finger-tip Service" mini-program or a paper Health Declaration Card — filling it on your phone saves serious queue time.
Immigration: present your passport (6+ months validity) and visa/arrival card. Chinese passports and green cards zip through e-gates. Officers ask your purpose of visit — answer truthfully.
Customs declaration: use the red channel if carrying goods worth over ¥5,000, cash over $20,000 equivalent, or cigarettes/alcohol above duty-free limits (400 cigarettes / 1.5 L wine).
Prohibited/restricted: drugs, weapons, animal and plant products (including ivory items), fresh fruit and meat, and sensitive publications — declare in doubt rather than risk it.
