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One Disney park has announced the rollout of a strict new ID policy aimed at combating ticket scalping.
Effective December 23, 2024, guests visiting Shanghai Disneyland will be required to provide a government-issued ID when purchasing tickets and present the same physical ID at entry.
Credit: Shanghai Disneyland
This policy, first unveiled in September, is designed to address the growing issue of ticket scalping, where resellers profit by offering tickets at inflated prices. The problem has been particularly prevalent at Disney parks during high-demand events like Oogie Boogie Bash and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
In Shanghai, scalpers have even been spotted selling tickets at the park gates (not to mention scooping up as much in-demand Duffy merch as possible), prompting Disney to implement these measures to maintain fairness and deter illegal resales.
Credit: Shanghai Disneyland
Under the new rules, guests can only purchase one ticket under their name instead of the previous limit of five. This also applies to children, with additional options for verifying the identity of minors who lack government-issued IDs. For instance, mainland China children without a PRC Resident ID Card may use an acceptable ID certificate containing both a photo and ID number.
Varying ID Requirements Based on Residency
The policy specifies acceptable forms of ID depending on a guest’s nationality and residency:
- Mainland China guests can use their PRC Resident ID card (those under 16 can go under the PRC ID number of an older guest).
- Hong Kong China and Macao China guests can use a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, a PRC Travel Document, or a Mainland Resident Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents.
- Taiwan China guests can use a Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents, PRC Travel Document, or Mainland Residence Permit for Taiwan Residents.
- International guests can use a valid foreign passport or PRC Foreign Permanent Resident ID card.
Credit: Disney
Disney advises guests to ensure the ID number used at purchase matches the physical ID presented at entry, as tickets cannot be updated post-purchase.
Commitment to Guest Experience and Park Integrity
Shanghai Disneyland has stated that these measures align with its broader commitment to enhancing the guest experience and aligning with practices at other destinations across China. A spokesperson emphasized that the new policy is part of ongoing efforts to “work closely with relevant government authorities to crack down on illegal commercial activities that bring significant damage to the resort’s reputation, business, and normal operations.”
This crackdown also includes restrictions on Annual Passholders, who are no longer permitted to purchase a one-day ticket for dates when their pass is valid.
Credit: Shanghai Disneyland
Other ID Restrictions
Shanghai Disneyland isn’t alone in tightening ID requirements. Earlier this year, the Disney Cruise Line introduced updated ID rules for embarking guests. Disneyland Paris similarly requires international visitors to carry their passports at all times. These changes reflect a growing focus on verification as a means of maintaining fair access and reducing fraudulent practices across Disney properties.
With iconic attractions like TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, Shanghai Disneyland remains a top destination for Disney fans. However, the park’s latest policy serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with its popularity.
What do you think of Shanghai Disneyland’s new ticket verification rules?
