Disney and Universal Parks Require Passport for Entry from ALL Tourists

When it comes to theme parks, most visitors worldwide are accustomed to receiving an electronic ticket—often a QR code or barcode sent to their phone or printed at home. But if you’re planning a visit to Shanghai Disneyland or Universal Studios Beijing, there’s a surprising twist in how entry works: there are no e-tickets. Instead, your passport itself serves as your ticket.

This unique system, standard across major tourist attractions in mainland China, can catch international travelers off guard if they’re not prepared. Attractions 360 recently shared this info on social media, emphasizing the importance of entering your passport number correctly when buying tickets online, since your actual passport will be scanned for admission.

If you’re headed to either of these two sprawling theme parks, here’s what you need to know.

Recently, Attractions 360 also shared this fact on X, posting “Shanghai Disneyland & Universal Studios Beijing do not issue e-tickets. Your passport is your ticket. Make sure to input passport number correctly when buying tickets. Today’s admission to Universal Studios Beijing: $77”

Shanghai Disneyland & Universal Studios Beijing do not issue e-tickets. Your passport is your ticket.

Make sure to input passport number correctly when buying tickets.

Today’s admission to Universal Studios Beijing: $77 🦖🦕🧙‍♂️👻🤖 pic.twitter.com/f1115eZOt2

— Attractions 360° (@SoCal360) October 20, 2025

Passport: Your Ticket to Shanghai Disneyland

At Shanghai Disneyland, your physical passport is the key that unlocks the magic.

Buying Tickets

Whether purchasing through the official Shanghai Disney Resort website or trusted third-party sellers like Klook, you’ll be required to input your passport number at checkout. This isn’t just a formality—your passport number is tied to your ticket for entry verification.

Entering the Park

When you arrive at the park gates, park staff will scan the original, physical passport you used when purchasing your ticket. It’s important to note that photocopies, photos, or screenshots will not be accepted. The scanning process verifies your identity and matches it against your ticket purchase.

After Entry

Once your passport is scanned, you’ll receive a paper ticket that includes a QR code. This QR code can then be linked to the Shanghai Disneyland app, allowing you to use the app’s features like FastPasses and park maps. But keep in mind—the passport remains the official entry credential.

Universal Studios Beijing: Passport and Facial Recognition

Universal Studios Beijing follows a similar system but adds a high-tech twist.

Ticket Purchase

Like Shanghai Disneyland, you must enter your passport number when buying tickets online through the Universal Beijing app or authorized resellers.

Entering the Park

At the park entrance, you’ll present your physical passport for scanning at the turnstile. The system doesn’t rely on printed or digital tickets—you must have the original passport.

Facial Recognition

A key difference at Universal Studios Beijing is the use of facial recognition technology. When your passport is scanned, the turnstile captures and verifies your facial data. This allows the park to confirm your identity for re-entry if you leave and return the same day or use a multi-day ticket. This extra layer of security helps streamline the guest experience and prevent ticket fraud.

Important Things to Keep in Mind

If you’re planning a visit to either Shanghai Disneyland or Universal Studios Beijing, these rules are crucial for a smooth experience:

• No E-Tickets: Neither park issues e-tickets or QR codes for entry that can be shown on your phone. Your physical passport is the only valid ticket.

• Non-Transferable Tickets: Because tickets are tied to your passport number, they cannot be transferred or used by anyone else. The system strictly enforces identity matching.

• Bring Your Original Passport: You must carry your original passport with you—photocopies or images won’t be accepted. Losing your passport or forgetting it could mean missing out on your day at the park.

• Everyone Must Comply: These rules apply to every member of your party, including children. Each person must have their own valid passport and ticket.

Why Does China Use Passports Instead of E-Tickets?

The passport-based entry system reflects broader security and identity verification standards common in mainland China, especially for international tourists. By tying tickets directly to passports and employing facial recognition, the parks can maintain strict control over admissions, reduce fraud, and streamline operations.

While this might feel unfamiliar or inconvenient to some visitors, it’s a system designed to protect both the guests and the park.

Admission Prices and Value

Universal Studios Beijing recently announced a ticket price of approximately $77 (USD) for admission, a competitive rate considering the size and scope of the park. Shanghai Disneyland ticket pricing varies by date and demand but typically ranges between $70 and $90 USD for standard admission.

Given the world-class attractions, immersive theming, and cultural experiences both parks offer, many visitors find the passport-linked ticket system a small trade-off for what promises to be a memorable trip.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

If you’re visiting Shanghai Disneyland or Universal Studios Beijing anytime soon, here are a few practical tips:

• Double-check your passport number: When purchasing tickets online, carefully enter your passport number exactly as it appears. Errors could result in denied entry.

• Keep your passport handy: Don’t stow it away in a hotel safe or bag too deep to reach easily—make sure it’s with you every time you enter the park.

• Plan for photo ID scanning: Be prepared for your passport and face to be scanned multiple times, especially at Universal Studios Beijing if you leave and return during the day.

• Consider your party: If traveling with family or a group, remind everyone about the passport requirements.

The no-e-ticket, passport-required entry system at Shanghai Disneyland and Universal Studios Beijing might seem like an unusual approach in today’s digital world, but it’s a uniquely effective way to manage guest admissions in mainland China. For international visitors, understanding this process is essential to avoid surprises and ensure a seamless park experience.

So when you’re ready to step into the magic of these two extraordinary theme parks, remember: your passport is your golden ticket.