Departure Procedures
This information is as of 2026/08/11.
Procedures may vary by airport. Arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights.
Departure Flow
Overview from airport arrival to boarding
- Check-in (online/kiosk/counter)
- Security screening
- Exit immigration (eGate for residents)
- Boarding
Recommended arrival: 3 hours before departure for international flights.
⚠ Departure card required for foreigners.
Check-in Options
Online, counter, and self-service check-in
- Online/app check-in
- Self-service kiosks
- Counter check-in
Online check-in: 24-48h before departure
⚠ WeChat/Alipay mini-programs also support check-in for domestic carriers.
Baggage Rules
Weight limits and prohibited items in luggage
Cash export limit: RMB 20,000 max; foreign currency over USD 5,000 must be declared
Export restrictions:
- Antiques and cultural relics (red wax seal required)
- RMB above limit
- Precious metals without receipt
- Technology items under export control
⚠ Antiques must bear the official red wax seal allowing export.
Security Screening
What to expect at the security checkpoint
- X-ray screening
- Walk-through metal detector or body scanner
- Laptops and power banks removed
- Lighters and matches confiscated
- Liquids tested with spectrometer
Carry-on restrictions:
Liquids over 100ml, ALL lighters and matches, power banks over 160Wh, sharp objects.
⚠ China prohibits all lighters and matches on flights (stricter than most countries).
Immigration / Passport Control
Exit procedures and automated gates
Exit control: Manual booths or automated gates (for Chinese citizens).
Automated gates: eGates for Chinese citizens only. Foreigners use staffed booths.
Departure card: Required. Fill in before approaching immigration.
Documents needed: Passport, boarding pass, departure card (for foreigners).
Departure Tax & Airport Fees
Taxes and fees charged upon departure
Departure tax: Airport construction fee included in ticket.
Amount: CNY 90 (international)
Payment: Included in ticket price.
Duty-Free Shopping
Shopping options in the restricted area
Shopping options: Large duty-free at Beijing Capital/Daxing, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou airports.
Popular items: Baijiu, tea, silk, cosmetics, electronics, luxury brands.
Airport Lounges
Eligibility and how to access lounges
Lounge availability: Numerous lounges at Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou (First/Business class, Air China, BGS Premier).
Priority Pass: Accepted.
Access options: Priority Pass, airline status, credit card programs (UnionPay Platinum), paid entry.
Departure Tips
Practical advice to avoid last-minute issues
- Fill out departure card before immigration.
- Antiques need red wax seal for export.
- Exchange remaining RMB (max 20,000 export).
- All lighters will be confiscated at security.
- Chinese airports are generally efficient but very large.