Refer China: Starting Oct, Domestic Flights No Longer Provide This Document

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Starting October, Domestic Flights No Longer Provide This Document

China is set to mark a new milestone in its transition to fully digital travel documentation. Starting October 1, 2025, passengers flying on domestic routes within China will no longer be issued paper itineraries, officially ending the use of printed flight receipts.

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According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), all domestic air travel services will adopt electronic itineraries exclusively. This change follows a joint announcement by the State Taxation Administration, Ministry of Finance, and CAAC, promoting the full-scale use of digitally certified e-invoices and electronic travel documents in civil aviation.

A transitional period began on December 1, 2024, during which both paper and electronic itineraries were valid. However, this window will close by September 30, 2025, after which only digital itineraries will be recognized.

Airlines and travel agencies are expected to clearly display how passengers can obtain, query, and verify electronic itineraries at check-in counters, official websites, and mobile apps. The move ensures a smoother, greener, and more convenient travel experience. As of August 2025, over 40 million electronic itineraries have been issued, accounting for 43% of all travel documents—showcasing strong adoption.

Railways Follow Suit with Paperless Transition

This shift to digital is also being reflected in China's railway system. Starting October 1, 2025, paper reimbursement vouchers for train tickets will also be phased out.

Per the State Taxation Administration, China State Railway Group, and Ministry of Finance, train passengers will receive electronic invoices instead. Travelers can request these invoices within 180 days of their trip or ticket modification/refund via the 12306 platform, ticket windows, or self-service kiosks.

While the system transitions, paper vouchers for trips before September 30, 2025, can still be issued upon request. Afterward, digital notifications via SMS or the 12306 app will inform passengers of their travel details. For those who prefer a physical reminder, "Travel Information Prompt Sheets" can still be printed at stations.

Source: 界面新闻