current travel to china

China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated April 25, 2024)

Amazing News for Selected Country Travelers!

Visa-Free Access to China

Great news for our esteemed customers from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Malaysia! You can enjoy China's beautiful culture and scenery visa-free for 15 days until December 31st, 2025. No extended waiting, less hassle, and more time for planning your perfect China adventure.

And for our fortunate travelers from Singapore—you can relish visa-free access to China for up to 30 days, indefinitely!

Seeking a Longer Stay or Arriving from Other Countries? Try China Highlights' Port Visa Service

If your home country isn't listed above or if you aim to discover China for more than two weeks, no worries — we offer our Port Visa Service! Once your tour booking is confirmed with us, we can arrange your visa for just US$50 (valid until June 30th, 2024). Forget the stress of embassy visits and visa interviews.

Start booking your dream Chinese vacation with us .

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• What Ways to Enter China
• Do I Still Need a PCR Test to Enter China
• Hong Kong/Macau Travel Restriction

International Flights to China

What to expect when traveling in china, best times to travel to china, 8 ways to enter china: all open now.

Since China has fully permitted visa applications, there are now several ways to enter the country.

If you still hold a valid Chinese visa (any type including a tourist visa, 10-year visa, a port visa, etc.), you can use it to enter China.

If you don't have a Chinese visa or your visa has expired, you can apply for a new one. All visas can now be applied for, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, and so on. (International visitors can apply for a tourist visa to the Chinese Mainland in Hong Kong.)

For the documents required for a visa application, you can refer to the information given by a Chinese embassy/consulate . Please submit your application at least two months in advance.

To apply for a tourist visa (L visa), you will be asked to provide an invitation letter issued by a Chinese travel agency or individual or round-trip air tickets and hotel bookings.

When booking a private tour with us, we can provide you with an invitation letter, which is one more thing we do to make your travel more convenient, giving you more flexibility with your air tickets and hotel bookings.

Now it is very easy to apply for a visa . You can easily apply by yourself without an intermediary. The following is how one of our clients successfully applied for a Chinese tourist visa:

• First, fill out the form at the China Online Visa Application website ;
• Second, make an appointment on this website to submit your visa materials on Appointment for Visa Application Submission website ;
• Third, take the required documents to the embassy to submit;
• Finally, you will get a return receipt if your documents are qualified.

Usually, you will get your visa after 7 working days. The application fee is about USD185 for US citizens.

Q: What if my passport expires but my visa doesn't?

A: You can travel to China on the expired passport containing valid Chinese visa in combination with the new passport, provided that the identity information (name, date of birth, gender, nationality) on both passport identical.

If there is a change to any of the above details, you must apply for a new visa.

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

If you do not apply for a Chinese visa, you may still have the opportunity to visit these areas of China visa free: the Shanghai area (including Suzhou, Hangzhou, etc.), the Beijing area (with Tianjin and Hebei), the Guangzhou area (Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.), and more. Take advantage of the 6-day visa-free entitlements.

Find out if you could use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy with our information on China's 144-hour Visa-Free Policy (Eligible Entry/Exit Ports, Applicable Countries, Documents to be Prepared...)

You can also obtain entry and exit control policies through the 24-hour hotline of the National Immigration Administration:

• Beijing: 0086 (+86)-10-12367
• Shanghai: 0086 (+86)-21-12367
• Guangzhou: 0086 (+86)-20-12367

Quick Test: Will My Route Qualify for China 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

1. I will depart from (only applies to direct or connected flight):

2. I will arrive in China at [city], [airport / railway station / port].

3. My arrival date is...

4. I will leave for [country/region] from China (the bounding destination on the air ticket):

5. My departure date is...

6. My nationality is...

8. I have Chinese visa refusal stamps in my passport.

You qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour visa-free policy.

You qualify to enjoy China's 144-hour visa-free policy.

You don't qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free policy.

Reason you don't qualify:

• You must be in transit to a third country or region.
• You must leave the city area (prefecture or municipality) after the 72/144 hours (the 72/144-hour limit is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after arrival, i.e. 24:00 on the arrival date).
• Your passport must be valid for more than 3 months at the time of entry into China.
• Your passport nationality is not eligible for the 72/144-hour visa exemption program.
• You have Chinese visa refusal stamps in your passport.

3. Port Visas (Landing Visas)

If you don't have time to get a visa, or if you find it cumbersome to apply for a tourist visa, you could consider traveling to China through a port visa.

Port visas can be applied for a group at least including 2 people. You need to enter the country within 15 days after you get your entry permit. The port visa allows a stay period of 1 to 2 months.

Applicable ports include Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Guilin, Xi'an, Chengdu, etc.

Note: Tourists from America are not granted a port visa in Shanghai.

Book your China trip with us and we can help you apply for a port visa.

4. Visa Exemption for ASEAN Tour Groups to Guilin

In addition, tour groups from ASEAN member countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines, can visit Guilin for 144 hours without visas as long as they meet the visa-free transit policy requirements.

5. Shanghai Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Groups

Shanghai has a 15-day visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via a cruise. You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a Chinese travel agent at the Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

6. Hainan Visa-Free Access

No visa is required for staying on Hainan Island for up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders from 59 countries. Groups and individual tourists must book a tour through an accredited travel agency.

Find out whether you qualify for the policy here .

7. Visa Exemption for the Pearl River Delta Area

International travelers from Hong Kong or Macau are able to visit the Pearl River Delta area (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.) visa-free as long as they go with a registered tour provider, such as us.

8. APEC Cards

If you hold a valid APEC business travel card, you can simply enter China with the card without applying for a visa.

Travelers who hold a valid APEC business travel card can stay in China for up to 60 days.

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Do I Still Need a PCR Test or Antigen Self-Test to Enter China

No. Starting from August 30, all travelers entering China will no longer need to undergo any COVID-19 testing. You do not need to submit any test results for COVID-19 before departure.

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Hong Kong / Macau Travel Restriction

Hong kong entry requirements.

Travelers from any region bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong could be a good gateway for your China trip. See suggestions on China Itineraries from Hong Kong (from 1 Week to 3 Weeks).

Direct high-speed trains from Guangzhou and Shenzhen to Hong Kong are available now. In preparation for the Canton Fair, it is expected that direct high-speed ferries will be launched from Guangzhou Pazhou Port to Hong Kong's airport in mid-April.

• 10 Top China Tours from Hong Kong

Macau Entry Requirement

From August 30, travelers from any region bound for Macau will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test).

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Macau to the Chinese Mainland.

Inbound and outbound international flights in the week beginning March 6th rose by more than 350% compared with a year earlier, to nearly 2,500 flights, according to Chinese flight tracking data from APP Flight Master.

At present, there are one or two direct flights a week from New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, Seattle to Shanghai, London to Guangzhou, etc.

There are also many flight options with stopovers that are more frequent and affordable. Testing at transit airports is now not required!

The Coronavirus outbreak in China has subsided. China looks like it did in 2019 again. No special measures (like PCR tests or health codes) are required when traveling around China. All attractions are open as normal.

Wearing a mask is not mandatory when traveling. In hotels, masks are off for the most part. But in some crowded places, such as airports or subway stations, many people still wear masks.

Weather-wise, the best times to visit China are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when most of the popular places have their most tourism-friendly weather, except for the "golden weeks" — the first week of May and of October — when most attractions are flooded with Chinese tourists.

If you are looking for smaller crowds, favorable prices, and still good weather, you should consider March and April or September.

Tourism in cultural and historical destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an is hardly affected by weather conditions. They are suitable to be visited all year round.

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Tour China with Us

We've been building our team for over 20 years. Even over the past three years we have continued, serving over 10,000 expats with China tours and getting a lot of praise (see TripAdvisor ).

We are based in China and can show you the characteristics and charm of China from a unique perspective. Just contact us to create your China trip .

Our consultants will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and prepare the best plan for you.

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China Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to China

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Recommended on public transportation.

China entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to China from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter China.

Can I travel to China if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter China without restrictions.

Can I travel to China without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter China without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter China?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering China.

Can I travel to China without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in China?

Mask usage in China is recommended on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in China?

Restaurants in China are open. Bars in China are .

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China Eases Travel Requirements: New Guidelines from May 19, 2022

China eases travel requirements for for inbound overseas travelers by adjusting some of the pre-departure COVID-19 test policies. We discuss the new guidelines and provide information based on announcements released by multiple Chinese embassies, including the Chinese embassy in the United States.

People travelling to China will only be required to perform two nucleic acid tests 48 hours before their flight and one antigen test 12 hours before boarding under the new guidelines announced on May 19, 2022, by several Chinese embassies overseas. Those who test negative will receive a health code and will be permitted to board the plane. For individuals who have recovered from the infection, there will be no extra requirements.

Aside from the Chinese Embassy in the United States, Chinese embassies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Netherlands, Ireland, Denmark, Serbia, and Rwanda have made similar changes to the conditions for travel to China. Below we provide a complete list of the main changes announced by such countries.

United States

According to notice from the Chinese embassy and consulates in the United States, travellers from the US no longer need an RT-PCR test seven days before travelling, starting May 20, 2022. Antibody test requirements have also been eliminated. Regardless of whether they have been vaccinated or with which vaccination, passengers will be required to take two COVID-19 tests from two different testing sites within 48 hours and one antigen test within 12 hours of boarding the aircraft. Crew members will no longer need to undergo supplementary quarantine and will be able to enter China as normal passengers. The notice includes a list of the current approved direct flights between China and the US, which you can see in our tracker here .

The Chinese embassy in the UAE eliminated the requirement for two nucleic acid tests 21 and 14 days before travel, as well as the that for Serum IgM testing, regardless of the passenger’s vaccination status – with an important exception for Ethiad Airways, which still requires travellers to China to undergo serum IgM antibody testing within 48 hours before departure. Recovered patients no longer need to present CT or X-ray testing before departure. All passengers are still required to show two negative PCR tests within 48 and 12 hours before departure.

Netherlands

Before boarding, all foreign passengers going to China must provide a QR code with the Health Declaration Code (HDC) mark released by the Chinese embassy in the Netherlands, as well as an original antigen test certificate (if applicable) issued by institutions authorized by the same embassy – list available here .

The Chinese embassy in Serbia withdrew the demand for a health code application for people who have been vaccinated for less than 14 days, effective May 18, 2022. Passengers are still required to complete a double PCR testing within 48 and 24 hours from departure, as well as an antigen rapid test 12 hours before.

The Chinese embassy in Denmark announced that starting from May 18, 2022 , all China-bound passengers from Denmark, including those who have not inoculated (or fully inoculated) with COVID-19 vaccines, are required to take two PCR tests instead of “PCR + IgM Antibody” tests.

According to the latest notice , effective May 18, 2022, testing criteria for China-bound travellers (regardless of their vaccination status) include two nucleic acid PCR tests, completed within 48 and 24 hours before boarding, respectively, and one rapid antigen test, within 12 hours of boarding. IgM antibody testing is no longer required for non-vaccinated travelers. Moreover, passengers departing from Rwanda to China can transit only one time.

More opening-up on the horizon?

Travel to and from China has decreased as the nation implements a “dynamic COVID zero” approach, which includes limitations on passport issuance and renewal, mandatory quarantine for most visitors upon arrival, and airline cancellations. However, since the Omicron variant presents a reduced incubation period, international air travel has picked up, including the movement of China-bound passengers.

Accordingly, experts feel that the latest policy adjustments for travellers are unlikely to jeopardize China’s domestic COVID-19 fight in any way. Indeed, since the incubation period for the latest Omicron strain appears to be as short as two or three days, test results released within 48 hours of departure are sufficient to monitor possible contagions, compared to tests performed 7 or 14 days in advance. It has also been pointed out that the immunization rate of Chinese people living abroad, particularly students, is already quite high given the levels of vaccination and the previous spread of the COVID-19 variants.

The Chinese government has altered the COVID-19 playbook multiple times to maximize the antiviral measures while adhering to the dynamic zero-COVID policy, which epidemiologists say best suits China. Indeed, already in early May, Beijing announced the official implementation of the shorter quarantine regime, also motivated by the Omicron variant’s shorter incubation period. The policy change was aimed to ease the strain of quarantine on medical and facility resources and will serve as a model for lowering COVID-19 measures further.

According to our analysis, the altered pre-entry testing and post-entry isolation are not likely to have a substantial influence on the domestic epidemic prevention scenario in China, given both the short incubation time and mild symptoms of Omicron. While it is uncertain how the government will respond in the future to the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, the latest policy amendments can be read as a clear sign of the willingness of opening and ease travel restrictions, gradually, and in conformity with the gravity of the overall COVID-19 situation, both domestically and abroad.

China Briefing is written and produced by Dezan Shira & Associates . The practice assists foreign investors into China and has done so since 1992 through offices in Beijing, Tianjin, Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Suzhou, Guangzhou, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Please contact the firm for assistance in China at [email protected] .

Dezan Shira & Associates has offices in Vietnam , Indonesia , Singapore , United States , Germany , Italy , India , and Russia , in addition to our trade research facilities along the Belt & Road Initiative . We also have partner firms assisting foreign investors in The Philippines , Malaysia , Thailand , Bangladesh .

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Security Alert May 17, 2024

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

China travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: May 8, 2024 09:10 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, china - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in China due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

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Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region

Local authorities have put in place invasive security measures in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Chinese authorities are increasingly detaining ethnic and Muslim minorities in the region without due process. There are reports of extrajudicial internment and forced labour camps. Family members of Canadian citizens with Chinese citizenship have been detained. You may be at risk of arbitrary detention if you have familial or ethnic ties to the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region.

The situation in the region is tense and accurate information is hard to obtain. Authorities may impose curfews and restrictions on short notice.

• Avoid gatherings and demonstrations
• Always carry ID
• Expect a heightened security presence and frequent security checks
• Expect significant travel delays
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Tibet and Tibetan autonomous prefectures

You must obtain a permit and be taking part in an organized tour to travel to Tibet. Chinese authorities occasionally suspend issuing permits to foreigners and can arbitrarily deny tourist entry to certain districts and communes of the Tibetan autonomous prefectures in Sichuan and Qinghai, despite not having proactively published notification of these changes. If you enter a restricted area without the requisite permit, you could be fined, taken into custody, and deported for illegal entry.  Local authorities may also impose curfews and travel restrictions on short notice, even if you have a permit.

Where possible, make full payment for travel conditional upon a travel permit being secured while noting that changes in Tibet's security situation can affect travel and related government policies at any time.

In these regions, expect:

• increased security measures and police presence
• surveillance measures
• that unauthorised gatherings may be dispersed by force
• that some places of worship or cultural sites of interest may be off-limits to foreigners

If you travel to these regions despite the risks:

• contact a reputable travel agency and the Chinese Embassy or a consulate before you leave to learn about entry requirements 
• be aware of your surroundings
• exercise caution due to increased scrutiny on foreigners
• follow the instructions of security forces if you are stopped
• if you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the Canadian Embassy or the nearest consulate immediately
• don’t film or photograph unauthorised gatherings or outbreaks of violence

Our ability to provide consular support in the Tibet Autonomous Region is limited.

Check with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to know about the specific entry requirements for Tibet and other restricted areas.

Embassy of the People’s Republic of China

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft of mobile phones and other electronic devices occurs, even during the day. Criminals target foreigners, especially in major cities and tourist areas.

• Be vigilant in all crowded locations
• Don’t carry large sums of money
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Petty crime and sexual harassment can occur on buses and overnight trains.

• Ensure that the train compartment contains packages belonging only to you and other occupants
• Store personal belongings in a safe place, and don’t leave the compartment unattended
• You should securely lock the doors

Serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare, but incidents do occur.

There is a risk of armed bandit attacks in remote parts of China.

Police presence may be poor around border areas.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Counterfeit currency

Counterfeit currency is a significant problem in China. Counterfeit bills are widely distributed in local stores, restaurants and taxis. If you use cash, avoid moneychangers on the street and use small bills or exact change.

Exercise caution in popular tourist areas (particularly in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square and Shanghai’s the Bund, East Nanjing Road and People’s Square), where scammers target foreigners.

Scammers may invite you to a nearby establishment for a drink (usually tea or alcohol), a massage or other services. They will then ask you to pay an exorbitant bill (up to thousands of dollars), sometimes under threat of injury. In some cases, foreigners were harmed.

Be cautious of unsolicited requests from strangers to “practice English” or to accompany them to an art gallery, teahouse or an unknown location.

If you’ve been scammed:

• get to a safe location immediately
• take note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; this information is required by police to identify the persons involved and issue a report
• notify the police and obtain a report
• call your credit card company to report the scam; they will likely request a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction

Telephone scams

Foreigners have received calls from scammers claiming to be the police. The caller says that local authorities are investigating them for identity theft or money-laundering operation and requests a fund transfer to resolve the issue.

Don’t send any money in this type of situation.

Since most Chinese use their mobile device as payment method, digital and mobile phone scams are a common issue. You should be vigilant if you use your smartphone to scan, transfer funds or make payments.

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Internet censorship and cyber security

China blocks access to several websites, social media, search engines and online services within its territory.

You shouldn’t expect internet privacy. Your communications may be monitored at any time, and authorities may review the content stored or consulted on your electronic devices.

Cyber security while travelling.

Journalism and research

Foreign journalists and other media workers in China face considerable restrictions in the context of their work. The Chinese government may employ measures such as:

• movement controls
• physical and electronic surveillance
• public smear campaigns
• delaying or refusing renewals of press cards and visas
• intimidation and harassment.

There are cases of foreign journalist arrests on national security violations.

You should be particularly vigilant if researching or reporting on subjects critical of or sensitive to the government and in areas such as Tibet or Xinjiang.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are illegal without prior approval from the Chinese government. Authorized and unauthorized demonstrations can take place with little or no notice. They can quickly spread to surrounding areas, including those frequented by tourists.

If you participate in or are witness to a demonstration, you may be subject to scrutiny and severe legal action. Foreign journalists have experienced intimidation and detention for reporting on demonstrations.

The security situation around large gatherings could change quickly. Be vigilant about your safety.

You should be particularly vigilant in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and the Tibet Autonomous Region.

• Don’t film or take pictures of demonstrations
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Drivers often don’t respect the rules of the road, and traffic laws are not consistently enforced.

Be cautious when crossing streets, as drivers don’t always give pedestrians and cyclists the right of way.

Public transportation

China has an extensive passenger train system, including high-speed trains. You must present a passport to purchase a ticket and to board the train.

Taxis are available in major cities and are easier to obtain at hotels or taxi stands. Self-drive (rental), chauffeur-driven cars and ride-sharing services are also available in major cities.

Most taxi drivers don’t speak English nor French and will sometimes avoid picking up foreigners to avoid the inconvenience of clients who don’t speak Chinese. You should arrange for a person to write out your destination in Chinese characters before you go.

Taxi, motorcycle and pedicab drivers sometimes overcharge clients, especially at airports. They may also attempt to give you counterfeit currency.

To minimize the risk of being overcharged:

• use only reputable taxis
• avoid unlicensed “black taxis”
• do not agree to multiple passengers
• negotiate fares before entering the taxi, and/or request that the taxi driver use the meter
• request that the driver provides you with a receipt or “fapiao”
• request that the driver removes your luggage from the trunk before paying the fare

Marine transportation

Ferry accidents have occurred in China.

• Exercise caution when using marine transportation
• Always use available safety equipment, such as life jackets and seatbelts
• Don’t board ferries that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

If you intend on engaging in trekking activities:

• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you are properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, and in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre

Tensions on Korean Peninsula

Tensions on the neighbouring Korean Peninsula could escalate with little notice, and the security situation could deteriorate suddenly.

Tensions may increase before, during and after North Korean nuclear and missile tests, military exercises or as the result of incidents or military activities at or near the inter-Korean border.

Monitor developments, remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. We strongly recommend that you register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest updates.

Registration of Canadians Abroad

Authorized and unauthorized demonstrations can take place with little or no notice. They can quickly spread to surrounding areas, including those frequented by tourists.If you participate in or are witness to a demonstration, you may be subject to scrutiny and severe legal action. Foreign journalists have also been intimidated and detained for reporting on demonstrations.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Chinese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry into China.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required  Student visa: required  Working visa: required

Ensure that you apply for the proper type of visa for the specific purpose of your trip.

Thoroughly review all information available regarding the visa-issuance process.

Pay particular attention to the length of stay permitted after each entry on your Chinese visa. Overstaying can lead to fines and administrative detention.

Transit without visa and visa-free stays

While you may be eligible for a visa on arrival, there is no guarantee that it will be granted. You should obtain a visa before travelling to China.

You may be eligible for a visa on arrival if you are:

• transiting between two international destinations
• visiting certain areas for short periods
• visiting certain areas as part of an organized tour or travelling in a group

Contact the nearest Chinese diplomatic or consular office for more information on visa exemptions.

Visa application outside of Canada

If you apply for a visa outside of Canada, check with the Chinese embassy or consulate nearest you to make sure that it issues visas to Canadians.

If you are already travelling or living in China, contact the Foreigners Entry and Exit Administration Section of the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) for visa information.

Visiting Hong Kong and Macao

Obtain a visa allowing multiple entries if you plan to travel between Hong Kong, Macao and mainland China.

Applying for visas for mainland China in Hong Kong - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China in Hong Kong

Proof of onward travel

Be prepared to show proof of onward travel, including all of the documents you need to enter your next destination.

Fingerprints

Chinese immigration officials will take and retain the fingerprints of Canadians between 14 and 70 years old upon their entry into the country. Some exceptions may apply.

Screening of digital devices

Border officials may review the content stored or consulted on your electronic devices, particularly at border crossings between mainland China and Hong Kong.

Residency registration

All foreigners (tourists, visitors and long-term residents) must register their place of residence with the local public security bureau within 24 hours of arrival.

If you’re staying in a hotel, registration is normally done as part of the check-in process. Those staying with family or friends in a private home must register themselves. Failure to do so can result in fines and or detention. Carry proof of your registration.

Foreigners holding Z, X or J-1 visas must also apply for a residence permit, within 30 days of entry, from the Exit and Entry Department of the local public security bureau.

Health entry requirements

Medical tests, including a test for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, might be required to register and renew residency permits for stays of more than 6 months. Local authorities may not approve your work/residence permit application if you obtain an HIV-positive test result. You may also be subject to termination of employment and deportation.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Chinese authorities may place an exit ban on specific individuals to prevent them from leaving the country. An exit ban can relate to investigations into an individual, their family or an employer, and in criminal and civil matters, including business disputes.

You may not be aware that authorities have placed an exit ban on you until you try to leave the country. It is difficult to obtain information on bans from Chinese authorities.

If you’re unable to leave the country because of an exit ban, consult a lawyer and contact the closest office of the Government of Canada.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Avian influenza - 20 December, 2023
• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Medical care is widely available in urban areas but not in remote areas. Ask doctors and dentists to use sterilized equipment. Medical care in clinics offering international standard services to foreigners is much more expensive. Payment is expected at the time of service.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Altitude sickness

Tibet, Qinghai, western Sichuan and parts of Xinjiang are situated at altitudes exceeding 3,000 metres. Acute mountain sickness may occur at high altitudes.

Know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal.

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Criminal proceedings

If you are suspected of a crime, Chinese authorities can prevent you from leaving China (by withholding your passport or applying an exit ban) or may detain you for up to 37 days without charges.

Detention during the investigative period before charges are laid is common and can be lengthy. Some defence lawyers may be reluctant to accept cases involving foreigners.

Consult a Canadian government office in China if you experience such difficulty.

Consult our Arrest and detention page and our Overview of the criminal law system in China for more information.

Death penalty

Chinese authorities apply, sometimes arbitrarily, the death penalty for both violent and non-violent crimes, including for serious drug offences.

Penalties for possession, use, production or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, jail sentences or the death penalty. These laws are strictly enforced and apply to persons 14 years and older. Penalties can be assigned arbitrarily.

Local authorities conduct random drug tests (urine or hair). Police have raided nightclubs and bars and subjected patrons to on-the-spot drug testing.

Based on positive drug test results, authorities can prosecute drugs crimes regardless of where or when drugs were consumed. This applies to drugs consumed legally in a foreign country before entering China.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Police carry out random checks, and failure to produce proper identification could potentially lead to fines or detention.

• Carry adequate identification, such as a passport and valid visa or residence permit, at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in case of its loss or seizure

If your passport is lost or stolen, visit the nearest police station or Public Security Bureau to report the incident and obtain information on the visa replacement process.

If you renew your passport while you are in China, you must register your new passport with the authorities promptly. If you fail to do so, you may be fined.

National security, social order, and public interest

Chinese authorities may define certain behaviours and activities as “endangering national security,” upsetting social order, or damaging the public interest, that would not be considered as such in Canada. This could include activities that occurred outside of China. National security, and "state secrets", are broadly defined and interpreted. "State secrets" could be interpreted to include documents, data, materials, or other items. If you are suspected of endangering national security, upsetting social order, or damaging the public interest you will be subject to questioning.

Chinese authorities may detain you for up to 6 months before you are formally arrested. Note that access to legal representation is frequently denied in the initial stages of a national security case, and trials often take place in closed court.

If you are detained, you should immediately request access to a lawyer and request notification of the nearest Canadian diplomatic mission. Canadian diplomatic missions can provide you or your family with a list of lawyers.

If you previously occupied a position that was in any way affiliated with the government of China and left your position without receiving authorization or without following formal procedures, you may be considered a defector by Chinese authorities.

This can be the case regardless of the seniority of the position you occupied, even if you left this position a long time ago and you did not handle sensitive or classified materials. Authorities may detain you even if you have previously travelled to or resided in China without issue.

Consult a Chinese criminal lawyer to understand how this may apply to you.

Bans and Sanctions

The Chinese government may ban or sanction entities or individuals for actions, including oral or written statements, and associations with entities that are critical of:

• the Communist Party of China
• the Chinese government
• Chinese leaders and policies

The Government of the People's Republic of China does not publicize a list of banned or sanctioned entities or individuals, and the implementation of bans or sanctions remains vague. The effect on individuals associated with banned or sanctioned entities is unknown.

It could include:

• a ban on travel to Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau
• freezing of assets
• prohibition of business or association with Chinese citizens and organizations

If you believe you may be subject of a ban or sanctions, consult a lawyer and contact the closest office of the Government of Canada.

Consult entry and exit requirements for information on exit bans

Political activities

China has imposed severe restrictions on political activities, including advocating for causes, participating in public protests or sending private electronic messages critical of the government.

Chinese authorities may detain you if you participate in political activities and restrict your future travel to China.

Non-Governmental Organization activities

Activities conducted by foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are strictly regulated and scrutinized in China.

If you plan to work or volunteer for an NGO in China, ensure the organization is properly registered and that you possess the right visa for the activities you plan to perform.

Religious activities

There are restrictions on certain religious activities, such as preaching, distributing literature and associating with unapproved religious groups, including some Christian, Buddhist and Muslim organizations.

Chinese law also prohibits overseas non-governmental organizations from engaging in or sponsoring religious activities.

The Falun Gong movement is banned in China. Participants in Falun Gong activities or Falun Gong-related demonstrations are subject to legal action that may include detention, arrest, imprisonment and deportation.

Be cautious about visiting certain places of worship, which may have been, explicitly or not, declared off-limits to foreigners by local authorities. If you are not prompted to buy a ticket to visit the site, it could be an indication that the site is off-limits to foreigners.

Facial recognition and use of video surveillance (CCTV)

Law enforcement agencies in China widely rely on facial recognition technology and video surveillance to police, monitor and control illegal or restricted activities, including participation in demonstrations.

Privacy rights may differ substantially from Canadian standards. You should assume that local authorities have access to your biometrics as soon as you enter the country.

Military installations

Travel near military installations is restricted. Photography of military installations or government buildings is prohibited, and offenders may be detained, arrested and imprisoned.

Seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

Gambling and the promotion of gambling activities are illegal in mainland China.

Commercial surrogacy is illegal in China, and surrogacy arrangements are not legally recognized.

If you're planning to visit China for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek specialist legal advice on Chinese and Canadian laws prior to making any arrangements.

The Embassy of Canada to China can't provide recommendations on surrogacy arrangements.

Prohibited or controlled items

There are absolute prohibitions against the importation of arms, drugs and plant or animal products that could carry disease or pests. There are also restrictions on the entry of printed material, film, photos, videotapes, and CDs considered detrimental to China's interests.

Importation and use of drones are subject to strict regulation. Contact the Civil Aviation Administration of China to consult the rules regarding registration and use of drones.

Importing pets

If you intend to reside in China, be advised that you can only import one pet (dog or cat) per person.

A Canadian animal health inspection certificate and vaccination certificate should be stamped by your local Animal Health Office of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Animals without the proper documentation will be held in quarantine at the port of arrival and could be euthanized if the proper documentation is not provided.

Animal Health Office - Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Getting married in China

Marriages that are legally performed in China are usually valid in Canada. Chinese civil authorities don't perform marriages between two foreigners. If you plan to get married in China, you should contact the nearest Chinese diplomatic representative in Canada to confirm the requirements.

Marriage overseas

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Chinese law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

However, some prejudice still exists against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, and authorities sometimes censor social media content on 2SLGBTQI+ related topics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Canadian and international driving licences are not recognized in China. You must hold a foreigner residence permit and meet local requirements to obtain a Chinese driver's licence.

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%. If a police officer suspects you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver's licence on the spot. If you're convicted, you can expect heavy fines and jail.

Foreign drivers involved in an accident face harsh penalties. If you're suspected of being responsible for road accidents, police officers can detain you until their case is closed, which can take years.

Carefully consider the implications of driving in China.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in China.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of China, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. If you enter China on a Chinese passport or identity card, the Chinese government will usually not permit the Embassy of Canada to provide you with consular assistance.

If you're a Canadian of Chinese origin travelling to China, you may be asked to provide your Chinese name by border authorities. Ensure that you are well informed about Chinese law and practices relating to the determination and loss of Chinese citizenship, including cancelling a household register (hukou) and applying to renounce Chinese citizenship. Contact the nearest Chinese diplomatic or consular office for more details.

Canadian children born to at least one parent who is a Chinese citizen may be deemed Chinese citizens under China's Nationality Law. Chinese authorities may not recognize the child's Canadian citizenship, and the family may be subject to family planning regulations.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and China.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in China by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in China to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Doing business in China

Canadian business travellers have been detained and had their passport confiscated as a result of business disputes with their Chinese counterparts.

Seek legal advice from professionals in China, as well as in Canada, before proceeding with business agreements or arrangements. Ensure that all documents are translated so that conditions, terms and limitations are understood. Disputes are often costly and prolonged, and you may be subject to a travel ban restricting you from leaving the country until the matter is resolved.

There have been incidents involving foreigners being held against their will at their workplace. These incidents, which can be accompanied by threats of violence, are often the result of other companies or disgruntled employees attempting to resolve business and employment disputes.

There are many teaching opportunities in China. However, make sure you are well informed before signing a contract. Ensure that the contract specifies the maximum number of classroom hours per day and per week, maximum workdays per week, and vacation periods.

Canadians teaching in China, particularly at newly established private secondary schools and private English training centres, have often found their employers unable or unwilling to honour contract terms or assist in obtaining Chinese employment visas and other permits required for foreigners to teach lawfully in China.

If you're travelling to China to work or study, you may be required to possess medical insurance (coverage of 400,000 renminbi). Verify this stipulation with the school or employer before arriving in China.

It is illegal to work on a tourist (L) visa or a working (Z) visa linked to a company other than your employer. Canadian citizens have been detained and forced to leave the country for working illegally.

Learn about studying abroad if you plan to study or conduct research in China.

Studying abroad

The currency is the renminbi (RMB). The basic unit of currency is the yuan.

Counterfeit renminbi are relatively common. It is illegal to use foreign currency. Exchange foreign currency at officially approved facilities only.

Generally, only international hotels and some larger shops accept international credit cards. Some Chinese banks will provide cash advances using credit card accounts, but they may charge for the service. It is possible to use bank cards to draw on your Canadian bank account at an increasing number of ATMs, especially in urban areas. Credit cards are not always accepted, and the availability of ATMs is limited outside major cities.

Upon entering or leaving China, you must make a declaration to customs if you travel with or more than USD 5 000, 20 000 RMB or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum can be in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller's cheques or any other convertible assets.

A permit issued by a local bank may also be required to exit China with sums superior to USD 5 000. Make sure you comply with cash control regulations.

Typhoons and monsoons

The typhoon and monsoon (rainy) season extends from April to October. Typhoons usually occur along the southern and eastern coasts. During this period, even small storms can quickly develop into major typhoons.

Flooding is common in central, western and southern China, particularly areas bordering the Yangtze River. Seasonal flooding and landslides can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

If you decide to travel to China during the typhoon and monsoon season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• China Meteorological Administration
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad

Air pollution

Air pollution can be severe across much of China.

Some cities maintain air pollution alert systems. During periods of severe air pollution, expect school closures, outdoor event cancellations, car usage limitations and transportation disruptions.

Monitor air pollution levels, which change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

• limit your activities outdoors
• monitor local media
• follow the instructions of local authorities.

Air pollution in China  – World Air Quality Index

Seismic activity

China is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes.

Familiarize yourself with the security measures in place at your accommodations while in China. In the event of an earthquake, pay careful attention to all official warnings and follow evacuation orders issued by the Government of China. Aftershocks could occur.

What to do during an earthquake

Avalanches and landslides

In mountainous regions, avalanches and landslides present a risk and have resulted in fatalities.

The Karakoram and Khunjerab Pass routes in Xinjiang can be hazardous due to landslides.

Monitor local media and weather forecasts and follow the advice of local authorities.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 110
• medical assistance: 120
• firefighters: 119
• roadside assistance: 112

Consular assistance

Beijing, Tianjin, Gansu, Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang, Shandong, Shanxi, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Shaanxi, Qinghai, Xinjiang, Xizang (Tibet), Henan and Hebei.

Chongqing, Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou.

Guangdong, Guangxi, Guangzhou, Fujian, Jiangxi, Hunan and Hainan.

Jiangsu, Anhui, Zhejiang, Hubei and the city of Shanghai.

For emergency consular assistance, call the nearest Canadian government office and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in China overall. 

China (PDF 1.07 MB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise a high degree of caution in China overall.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Tibet and Xinjiang.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Tibet and Xinjiang due to the security situation and associated measures.

• Petty crime occurs. Criminals target travellers in crowded areas, including on public transport. Resisting can lead to violence.
• Scams targeting travellers can lead to loss of money, violence and serious assault. Report scams to the nearest police station.
• Armed attacks are a risk in remote border regions. Be careful if travelling in these areas.
• The Chinese Government strictly controls demonstrations. Authorities may arrest protesters. Avoid protests and large gatherings. Don't photograph or video protests.
• Increased security measures are in place in Xinjiang. Be ready to show photo ID if asked.
• There's civil unrest and political tension in Tibet. Get permission from Chinese authorities before you go. You can only travel to Tibet as part of an organised tour.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Tap water in China may not be safe to drink. Drink only bottled water with intact seals.
• People have died from bird flu in China. Stay away from live poultry. When preparing food, handle poultry properly and ensure it's thoroughly cooked.
• HIV/AIDS is a significant risk in China. Take precautions if engaging in activities that expose you to the risk of infection. Ask for sterilised equipment when receiving medical treatment.
• Animal and human rabies and hand, foot and mouth disease are common. Be careful with both wild and domestic animals in China. Wash your hands carefully and regularly. Take other hygiene precautions.
• High pollution levels are a problem in major cities. Follow the advice from local authorities on days with harmful pollution.

Full travel advice:  Health

• The Australian Government can't intervene in the Chinese justice process. We also can't help if you're a dual national and don't enter China on your Australian passport.
• Chinese law treats a person aged 12 years and older as an adult. China has strict laws and severe criminal punishments including the death penalty and life imprisonment.
• You must always carry identification and show it to the police if they ask.
• Chinese authorities undertake random drug testing on foreign nationals and can prosecute individuals who return a positive test result regardless of when or where the drugs were taken.
• Many business and employment issues may be considered criminal matters in China. Penalties are severe. Get professional legal advice before entering into any employment or commercial contract in China.
• If you're a former Chinese citizen, authorities may treat you as a citizen and refuse access to Australian consular services. Get legal advice if you're unsure of your citizenship status under Chinese law.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of China for the latest details.
• China is gradually reintroducing visas on arrival, including transit visas. You may be permitted to enter China if you’re a foreign national holding a valid residence permit for work, personal matters or reunion. Australians should also contact the nearest  Chinese embassy or consulate  to confirm visa validity and eligibility, and other travel requirements.  

Flights between China and Australia have increased but are less frequent than pre-COVID-19. 

• China has implemented random COVID-19 testing for inbound travellers arriving at airports. Authorities have advised that no follow-up action will be taken if travellers test positive on arrival, but they may be advised to seek medical treatment.
• You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau. This will be part of the standard check-in process if you stay at a hotel. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular services in China, contact the  Australian Embassy in Beijing  or our Consulates-General in  Shanghai ,  Guangzhou,  Chengdu , and Shenyang . 
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Petty crime occurs, including:

• pickpocketing
• bag-snatching
• theft of laptops, passports and mobile phones

If you resist, you can be injured if criminals turn violent.

Criminals target travellers in crowded areas, including on transport.

People have reported  assaults  and  robberies , particularly in areas popular with expats. This includes bar and shopping precincts in major cities.

There are scams  that target travellers.

Scammers invite travellers for a massage, teahouse service, or nearby cafes and bars. They offer various reasons and may say they wish 'to practise their English'.

Afterwards, they present travellers with an inflated bill. They won't let the traveller leave until they pay the bill by credit card.

Sometimes travellers are asked to carry concealed drugs out of China.

Never carry parcels or luggage for others.

Always pack your own bags.

ATM scams occur. Sometimes scammers set up fake ATMs that take the user's card.

Only use ATMs inside a secure place such as a bank or shopping centre. Do this during daylight hours.

If you're the victim of a crime or scam, report it to the nearest police station immediately.

Always obtain a police report when reporting a crime.

Fake money scams

Be careful of scams if paying a taxi fare with a RMB100 note. The taxi driver may swap the note for a fake note. They will then return the fake note and refuse to accept it as payment because it’s counterfeit.

Armed bandit attacks are a risk in remote areas bordering:

Be careful if travelling in these areas.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

The Chinese Government prohibits demonstrations they haven't approved. Authorities may arrest protesters.

Avoid protests, demonstrations and large gatherings.

Don't photograph, film or participate in protests or other acts that authorities may consider provocative.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang)

Increased security measures are in place in Xinjiang.

People of Uyghur descent are particularly affected.

Security checks in major cities in Xinjiang are common. Be ready to show photo ID if asked.

Violent incidents causing deaths and injuries have occurred across Xinjiang.

The government may restrict movement and communications in Xinjiang with little warning.

Tibet Autonomous Region (Tibet)

In the past, protests have turned violent, and people have been killed or injured.

If you're travelling to Tibet, get permission from Chinese authorities first.

You must also apply for a Tibet Entry Permit from the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

You can only lodge applications for Tibet Entry Permits through specialised travel agents in China.

You can only travel as part of an organised tour.

See  Travel

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Attacks could be targeted or random. They may include places travellers and expats visit.

In recent years, terrorist and other violent attacks have caused injuries and deaths in public places. Targets include railway stations and markets.

You could become the victim of violence directed at others.

Climate and natural disasters

China experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

Typhoons can happen along the southern and eastern coasts between May and November.

The direction and strength of typhoons can change with little warning.

If there's a typhoon:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights and other transport could be delayed or suspended
• access to seaports may be affected
• adequate shelter may not be available
• available transport may fill quickly

If a typhoon is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your accommodation or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• closely monitor alerts and advice from authorities such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with your friends and family

If you plan to travel, contact your airline for the latest flight information. 

• World Meteorological Organisation Severe Weather Information Centre
• China Meteorological Administration

Earthquakes and tsunamis

China can experience earthquakes and large, destructive tsunamis.

If there's an earthquake or tsunami:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media for updates

Check with the Tsunami Warning Centre  for updates on seismic activity and tsunamis.

If you're near the coast, move to high ground straight away if advised, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you travel. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in China. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Depending on your location, tap water in China may be unsafe to drink.

Drink only bottled water with sealed lids.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

People have died from  avian influenza  in China. Avian influenza virus strains continue to circulate in poultry in China.

The primary source of infection seems to be poultry handled in poultry markets.

To protect yourself from avian influenza:

• stay away from live poultry
• don't visit live bird and animal markets, including 'wet' markets and poultry farms
• practise good personal hygiene

When preparing food, handle poultry properly. Thoroughly cook all parts of the poultry.

• Avian influenza (WHO)
• Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS  is a significant risk in China.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the risk of infection.

If you need medical treatment, you could be exposed to unsafe blood and blood products. This is a particular risk in regional China.

Ask for sterilised equipment. You may need to pay for new syringes in hospitals or clinics.

Insect-borne illnesses

Japanese encephalitis  is widespread in rural southern China from June to August. The disease is also known as encephalitis B. A vaccine is available.

The risk of  malaria   increases during warm weather and is more significant in rural areas, particularly in the provinces of:

• Tibet (Zanbo Valley areas only)

Dengue  cases have risen sharply, especially in Guangdong and Guangzhou. Risks increase during the wet season.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis

Animal and human  rabies  are common. Health authorities report many cases each year. 

Be careful with both wild and domestic animals in China.

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help immediately.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)  is common. Sometimes serious outbreaks happen.

Outbreaks usually start in March or April and peak in May. However, outbreaks can continue until October each year.

The disease mainly affects children under the age of 10 years. Adult cases, particularly in young adults, are not unusual.

People with HFMD experience fever, blisters and rashes on the hands, feet and buttocks.

The disease is spread by direct contact with nose and throat discharges and faeces of infected people.

To protect yourself from illness:

• wash your hands carefully and regularly
• take other hygiene precautions

High pollution levels are a problem.

Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing heart and lung conditions may be especially affected by pollution.

Authorities issue red alerts when pollution is expected to be especially bad.

When a red alert is in place, authorities:

• close schools
• limit car use
• suspend construction activity

Flights are regularly delayed in China because of smog.

Dust storms occur across the north of China. They can:

• cause eye, nose, mouth and throat irritations
• make heart and lung problems worse

Get medical advice if you're worried about air pollution.

Follow the advice from local authorities about days with bad pollution and how to reduce your exposure.

• Air Quality Index
• US Embassy, Beijing
• Air pollution

Altitude sickness

Parts of China are at altitudes of over 3,000m, including:

• parts of Xinjiang
• Western Sichuan

If you travel to those areas, you may get  altitude sickness .

People with lung, heart or chest problems should take extra care. Even if you're healthy, you can still be affected.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• coordination problems

In severe cases, fluid can build up in your lungs, brain or both, which can be fatal.

To protect yourself from altitude sickness:

• ascend slowly, especially above an altitude of 2500m
• rest when needed and don't push your body
• avoid alcohol and cigarettes

If you're affected by severe altitude sickness, get to lower ground as soon as possible.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

International standard medical services in China are expensive.

If you plan on staying in China for a while:

• find out about local health insurance
• ask your employer if they provide health cover

Some hospitals in major cities have special departments for treating foreigners.

However, the standard of medical care and the range of medications is often limited, especially outside major cities.

Medical staff in rural areas may not be adequately trained.

Hospitals and doctors may ask for an up-front cash payment before treating you. This includes emergency care.

Medical evacuation from China can be very expensive.

Medical tourism

Travel to China for  medical treatment  is increasing.

Research and choose your medical service providers carefully. Ask health professionals and former patients about the quality.

Avoid uncertified medical service providers. Their standards may be poor, and they may be unable to provide the advertised medical care.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

The Australian Government can't intervene in the Chinese justice process.

In China, authorities treat a person aged 12 years and above as an adult under the law.

If detained, a person of this age will be:

• held with adults
• subject to the same conditions and legal processes as adults

The Australian Government can't help you if you're a  dual national  and you travel on your:

• Chinese passport
• Hong Kong or Macau Mainland Travel Permit
• identity card issued by Taiwan
• any non-Australian foreign passport
• Death penalty

China has the death penalty for drug offences and other serious crimes. Under Chinese criminal law, it's possible for espionage and other national security offences to attract serious penalties, from lengthy custodial sentences to the death penalty.

If you're sentenced to death, it's unlikely that Chinese authorities will grant you leniency.

Penalties for all types of drug offences including use, possession, manufacturing, selling or trafficking are severe and include life in prison or the death penalty.

Authorities strictly enforce these laws, even for small quantities of 'soft' drugs, such as marijuana. Laws apply to people aged 12 years and older.

Authorities conduct random drug tests. Police raids on nightclubs and bars frequented by foreigners have increased, with patrons subjected to urine and / or hair tests. A positive drug test can result in fines, detention and deportation, regardless of when or where the drugs were used.

Authorities have executed foreigners for drug offences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Legal proceedings and investigations

Authorities may not allow you to leave China if you're involved in a:

• criminal matter or investigation
• civil or commercial dispute

Sometimes people are only aware of an exit ban on them once they try to leave China.

Exit bans can affect you even if you're not directly involved in the legal proceedings. Authorities have stopped some Australians from leaving China because of a dispute involving family members. Sometimes it is years before authorities allow people to leave China.

If you're involved in local legal matters:

• get professional advice
• be aware of your rights and responsibilities

China has strict laws on national security, which it updates from time to time. These laws can be interpreted broadly and applied expansively and harshly. Chinese authorities may define certain behaviours and activities as endangering national security that would not be considered as such in Australia. This could include activities that occurred outside of China.

Authorities have detained foreigners on allegations of 'endangering national security'. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention or harsh enforcement of local laws, including broadly defined National Security Laws. Under Chinese criminal law, it's possible for espionage and other national security offences to attract serious penalties, from lengthy custodial sentences to the death penalty.

In China, it's illegal to:

• test positive for drugs (even if you used drugs before you arrived in China)
• demonstrate without prior approval from the government
• preach, distribute religious literature and associate with unapproved religious groups
• take part in any Falun Gong activities
• gamble or promote gambling activities
• engage in prostitution
• take photos of military or government buildings without official approval.

If you break these laws, you could be:

Registration and identification

Under Chinese law, you must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau. You must do this within 24 hours of arriving and each time you change your residential location.

Staff do this as part of the standard check-in process if you stay at a hotel.

If you're staying elsewhere, such as with family or friends, visit the nearest police station. Present your passport and a valid Chinese visa.

You must always carry identification and show it to the police if they ask for it.

Authorities will accept your passport or a Chinese residence card as forms of identity.

If you don't register your place of residence or carry identification, authorities can fine or detain you.

LGBTQIA+ laws

Homosexuality is not illegal in China but be aware of local sensitivities.

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law
• Doing business in China

China has experienced higher numbers of commercial disputes involving Australians in recent years. 

Before starting business relationships:

• investigate the market
• conduct appropriate due diligence

Get professional legal advice before entering into any contract in China. This includes residential leases and business contracts.

Business versus criminal matters

Many business issues Australians consider civil or commercial are classified as criminal matters in China. This is especially the case if state enterprises or state assets are involved.

Penalties for commercial and economic crimes are often severe.

Cases of Australians and other foreigners being held against their will at their workplace have increased. These incidents involved other companies or employees trying to resolve business and employment disputes. They do this through protests, and often with threats of violence.

• Doing business
• Living or working overseas

Employment in China

Disputes over working and living conditions for Australians working in China are common. This is particularly the case for those teaching English.

If you’re considering travel to China for work:

• verify the true nature of the work on offer
• make sure you have the correct visa before you arrive

Authorities can fine or detain you if you don't maintain a valid visa.

Get professional legal advice before signing any contract in Australia or China.

Carefully check local laws about business or other activities you wish to undertake in China.

Employment contracts may contain conditions that disadvantage you. For example, if your contract is terminated early, conditions may state that:

• you give up your right to a return air ticket
• your employer may withhold your pay

Don't surrender your passport to your employer for 'safe-keeping.' Businesses with a good reputation won't ask you to do this.

Dual citizenship

The Chinese Government doesn't recognise dual nationality. It won't let us provide consular help to Chinese-Australian dual nationals who travel on their:

If you're a Chinese-Australian dual national:

• travel on your  Australian passport
• get a visa to China
• always present yourself as an Australian citizen

If you're a former Chinese citizen, Chinese authorities may:

• treat you as a Chinese citizen
• refuse you access to Australian consular services

This can happen even if you entered China on an Australian or other foreign passport and you:

• haven't renounced your citizenship according to Chinese law
• haven't formally advised the Chinese authorities of your Australian citizenship
• continue to maintain a Chinese passport or household registration

Authorities may not allow certain categories of Chinese citizens, such as state officials, to renounce their Chinese nationality under Chinese law.

Get professional legal advice if you're unsure of your citizenship status under Chinese law.

If your child is born in China and you plan to get Australian citizenship by descent, contact the  Australian Department of Home Affairs  for advice.

If one parent is from mainland China, authorities will consider a child born in China to be a Chinese national.

Local authorities may not recognise the child's Australian citizenship and passport.

Contact the local Entry and Exit Administration Bureau for details.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australians intending to travel to China should contact the nearest Chinese embassy/consulate to confirm visa  eligibility  and other travel requirements. 

China is gradually reintroducing visas on arrival, including transit visas. You may need a full visa to travel to China, even as a tourist.

If you need a full visa, you must get this before you travel.

See the  Embassy of the People's Republic of China  for eligibility requirements and visa types.

Foreigners holding valid Chinese residence permits for work, personal matters and reunion may be able to enter China without applying for new visas. Contact your nearest Chinese embassy/consulate to confirm your visa remains valid or to apply for a new visa.

If you're already travelling or living in China, contact the Foreigner's Entry and Exit Administration Section of the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) for visa information.

Authorities will scan your fingerprints when you arrive if you're aged between 14 and 70 years.

Authorities have strict penalties for visa violations. Penalties include:

• fines imposed for each day overstayed, including if you’re in detention
• detention from 5 to 30 days

Make sure you leave China before your visa expires.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of China  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

You no longer require a negative COVID-19 test to enter China. 

China has implemented random COVID-19 testing for inbound travellers arriving at airports. Authorities have advised that no follow-up action would be taken if travellers test positive on arrival, but they may be advised to seek medical treatment.

Travel to Hong Kong and Macau

Hong Kong and Macau are Special Administrative Regions (SAR). They have separate visa and entry rules to mainland China.

If you plan to leave mainland China to visit Hong Kong or Macau, you may need a new Chinese visa to re-enter mainland China. Get the correct visa before you leave Australia.

You may be asked to present your previous passport and Chinese visa if you:

• intend to apply for a visa at the border of Shenzhen and Hong Kong, or Zhuhai and Macau, and
• you held a Chinese visa in a recently replaced passport

If you've visited China before, authorities may deny you a visa-on-arrival if you can't show your previous China visa.

Some visas issued in Hong Kong or at Hong Kong-Macau-Chinese mainland border crossings are valid for limited travel to designated areas only, such as:

• other areas in Guangdong Province

Using these permits to travel to other parts of China is illegal. Carefully check your visa limitations.

• Hong Kong travel advice
• Macau travel advice

Other formalities

If you’re a parent of a newborn baby born in China, you must register the child with the local Public Security Bureau. You must do this within 30 days of the child's birth and will require the child’s birth certificate for registration .

Apply for a Chinese visa in the child's passport. The child will need a valid visa to leave China.

For the registration process you need:

• the child's birth certificate
• parents' passports
• child's passport

For citizenship issues, see the 'Dual citizenship' section under  Laws .

Some countries will only let you enter if your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passports

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy, high commission or consulate .

If you get a new passport while in China, you must get a new Chinese visa. Otherwise, you won't be able to leave China.

Chinese authorities can take up to 10 working days to issue a visa. It can take longer during Chinese holiday periods.

Authorities won't speed up the process to meet your travel or flight schedule.

To replace your passport and visa:

• get an official report from the local police 
• get a replacement passport from the nearest  Australian embassy, high commission or consulate
• apply at the Foreigners Entry and Exit Administration Section of the local Public Security Bureau for a replacement Chinese visa in your new passport

You can use the police report when checking in to a hotel.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB).

Chinese law limits the amount of foreign currency you can carry in and out of China.

If you're carrying more than $US5,000 cash or the same amount in another currency, you must declare it when you arrive in China.

Keep the declaration. You need to show it to customs officials when you leave.

If you plan to leave China carrying more than $US5,000 or the same amount in another currency, you need permission from a Chinese bank.

You can't leave China with more than $US10,000 or the same amount in foreign currency.

ATMs are widely available in major Chinese cities. They accept all major credit cards.

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, especially in international hotels and restaurants.

In smaller cities, you may find it harder to use international cards.

Local travel

Authorities restrict travel by foreigners in China.

If you plan to travel outside major tourist areas, check that the area is 'open to foreigners'. For example, restrictions apply near military installations and some border areas.

Travel and living conditions vary greatly between cities and less developed rural areas.

In rural areas, you may have trouble accessing these services:

• landline phone
• mobile phone

Driving permit

All drivers must hold a valid Chinese driver's licence.

Foreign driver's licences and International Driving Permits (IDP) aren't valid in mainland China.

Long-term residents can apply for a Chinese driver's licence at their local Vehicle Management Office.

If you're going to China on a visa with less than 90 days validity, you may be able to get a provisional driver's licence. This will be valid for the length of your visa.

If you're hiring a car in China, check driving licence requirements with your car hire company.

Age and health restrictions apply and vary depending on the class of driver's licence.

Road travel

Travel by road is dangerous because of the following:

• poorly maintained roads
• aggressive driving

You're more likely to be killed in a car accident in China than in Australia.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

To ride a motorcycle, you must hold a valid Chinese motorcycle licence.

Australian motorcycle licences and International Driving Permits (IDP) issued for motorcycles aren't valid in mainland China.

Rules for applying for a motorbike licence, including a provisional motorcycle licence, are similar to those for cars. Contact your local Vehicle Management Office.

You don't need a licence to ride an electric bike.

Check your insurance covers you for riding all types of motorised bikes.

Always wear a helmet.

Use only licensed taxis or limousine services with a good reputation, preferably those arranged through your hotel.

Always insist that the meter is used.

Most taxis in China don't have seatbelts.

Taxi drivers may swap legitimate RMB100 notes for fake notes. They will then return the fake note and refuse to accept it as payment because it’s counterfeit.

Ridesharing apps are widely used in major Chinese cities.

Public transport

Tour operators, public buses and ferries might not meet safety standards, especially in rural areas.

Transport operators may not:

• provide adequate safety equipment
• maintain vehicles and equipment
• have safety precautions in place

Always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets or seatbelts.

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

• Transport and getting around safely
• Travelling by boat

Many airlines have temporarily reduced or stopped flights to China. Further travel restrictions can come into effect at short notice.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  China's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Contact your airline or travel agent for up-to-date information on domestic and international flights and transport options.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular services in China, contact the Australian Embassy in Beijing or our Consulates-General in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Shenyang.

Check the relevant website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Embassy, Beijing

21 Dongzhimenwai Dajie Sanlitun, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600 Phone: (+86 10) 5140 4111 Fax: (+86 10) 5140 4292 Website:  china.embassy.gov.au Social media:  WeChat ,  X (formerly Twitter)

Australian Consulate General, Chengdu

27th Floor, Square One 18 Dongyu Street, Jinjiang District Chengdu 610016  Phone: (+86 28) 6268 5200  Fax: (+86 28) 6268 5222 Email:  [email protected] Website:  chengdu.china.embassy.gov.au

Australian Consulate General, Guangzhou

12th Floor, Development Centre No. 3 Linjiang Road, Zhujiang New City Guangzhou 510623  Phone: (+86 20) 3814 0111  Fax: (+86 20) 3814 0112 Website:  guangzhou.china.embassy.gov.au

Australian Consulate General, Shanghai

Level 22, CITIC Square 1168 Nanjing Xi Lu Shanghai 200041  Phone: (+86 21) 2215 5200 Fax: (+86 21) 2215 5252 Website:  shanghai.china.embassy.gov.au

Australian Consulate-General, Shenyang

Level 19, China Resources Building, Tower A 286 Qingnian Avenue, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004 Phone: (+86 24) 8610 6100 Fax: (+86 24) 8163 0288 Email:  [email protected] Website:  shenyang.consulate.gov.au

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Outlook for China tourism in 2022: Trends to watch in uncertain times

Although Chinese consumer confidence is growing, desire for travel has shown a faltering recovery due to sporadic COVID-19 outbreaks. A predictable pattern is emerging where desire for travel recovers roughly two months after a decline and even though international travel is restricted, the desire for travel remains. Furthermore, travelers’ preferences are shifting, with implications for travel companies.

This article updates findings of McKinsey’s Survey of Chinese Tourist Attitudes and compares the results across the five surveys taken in April 2020, May 2020, August 2020, January 2021, and October 2021. It also examines the implications of shifting attitudes toward travel and offers actions that travel companies may consider when planning for the year ahead.

Consumer confidence is growing but desire for travel shows a pattern of spikes and dips

Confidence in China’s recovery is growing—consumer confidence is now at the highest level since the start of the pandemic. In February 2020, consumer confidence was at 43 percent. In October 2021, 67 percent of respondents indicated that they believe the Chinese economy will recover within two to three months (Exhibit 1). 1 McKinsey’s COVID-19 China Consumer Pulse Survey, see “ Survey: Chinese consumer sentiment during the coronavirus crisis ,” McKinsey, December 3, 2021.

As confidence grows, consumer spending is also showing signs of recovery. The latest Survey of Chinese Tourist Attitudes indicates that the majority of respondents, 77 percent of households, expect their income to stay constant in the near future and essential spending and discretionary spending have both increased since March 2021 and are stabilizing.

When it comes to travel sentiment, desire for travel has spiked and dipped as COVID-19 outbreaks continue. Previous McKinsey research indicated that the resurgence of domestic travel would support China’s travel industry recovery. 2 For more, see “ China’s uneven travel recovery: Long road to international travel furthers domestic opportunities ,” McKinsey, August 30, 2021. But, with recent sporadic outbreaks, confidence in domestic travel has been affected. For instance, in October 2021, only 2 percent of people planned to travel in the next two months. But comparing the results of the five tourist attitude surveys, it appears that COVID-19 outbreaks suppress travel desire for up to two months. The good news is that confidence in domestic travel safety quickly rebounds, showing a predictable pattern of recovery (Exhibit 2 and 3). 3 “Survey of Chinese Tourist Attitudes,” McKinsey, April 2020, May 2020, August 2020, January 2021, and October 2021.

Travel patterns echo the fluctuations in travel aspiration. The number of airline passengers increased by 61 percent between August and September 2021, then increased by 8 percent in October, followed by a decrease of 45 percent between October and November. Similarly, the number of rail passengers showed a 47 percent increase, a 9 percent increase, and a 42 percent decrease in the same months. 4 CEIC data: China Passenger Carried, Civil Aviation; and China Passenger Carried, Railway. But despite the fluctuations, the sentiment survey shows that the desire for travel remains. Currently, 42 percent of respondents plan to travel domestically for their next leisure trip, 26 percent of these involve flights of more than three hours of travel time.

International travel remains attractive, but recovery seems to be still a long way off

Chinese travelers express a desire to travel, both domestically and abroad. Even though international travel is restricted and the majority of respondents still perceive international travel as unsafe—and are not planning international travel in the near term—the survey shows continued strong interest in international destinations. Desire for overseas travel has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels with APAC being the top choice (24 percent). Southeast Asia, Europe, Russia, and Japan are named as the most desired overseas destinations.

Various factors affect willingness to travel internationally. As China’s policy announcements continue to delay any international opening, outbound leisure travel will likely be slow to return. To travel internationally, the Chinese consumer wants to see close to zero COVID-19 cases in the destination country (86 percent rated this as a top 3 factor). As the world adjusts to endemic COVID-19 with outbreaks of new variants, this scenario may be unlikely in the near future. Recently it looked as if Hong Kong might be the next destination to open, given its low COVID-19 cases, however, the traffic impact is difficult to predict and the recent outbreaks add an extra layer of complexity to the border reopening. The second most important factor for Chinese travelers is the removal of quarantine in China upon return (84 percent).

Travel patterns to Macau illustrate how COVID19 cases and quarantine requirements have an immediate impact on travel. When the COVID-19 situation stabilized, with no new local breakouts in Macau and no quarantine required for tourists from low-risk areas, the number of tourists recovered to 50 percent of pre-pandemic levels. During a period of COVID-19 outbreaks in Macau in late September and early October 2021, roughly 1,000 tourists traveled to Macau a day. During October, this number reached 20,000 a day and peaked at 30,500 in a single day in late October. 5 Macau Government Tourism Office, Press releases, October 23, 2021, October 29, 2021, November 1, 2021.

The latest findings have implications for travel companies, particularly around product, channel, and loyalty

Even during the current travel restrictions, there are shifts in traveler preferences and behaviors which may endure. Consumers and travelers are adapting to circumstances, and confidence in domestic travel safety tends to rebound quickly after sporadic outbreaks. As international travel is still restricted, domestic travel has revived, albeit in spikes and dips. There are strategies that travel companies could consider in this new landscape, including how they approach product, channel, and loyalty.

Develop travel products to match consumers’ travel aspirations

New domestic travel products have already been developed to substitute for overseas travel. As consumers’ travel aspirations change, companies could consider ways to match product offerings to current desires. The latest wave of the survey shows that travelers are looking forward to visiting new attractions, but due to travel policies, nearly half of respondents said a short trip to a new site is their number one choice. A short-haul trip to see a new attraction is top of mind (49 percent), followed by a long-haul trip to explore a new destination. For revisits, respondents favor longer trips to more interesting sites over shorter trips (Exhibit 4).

Consequently, travelers are planning trips around their hometown cities as a first choice. This preference provides opportunities for tourism companies to attract in-city demand by providing experiences in line with what travelers are looking to do during these trips.

In terms of expectations around what travelers wish to experience on their leisure trips, interest in visiting cultural or historical sites has increased from 39 percent to 44 percent and is now the second most favored activity. This has surpassed beach and resort trips, although these still remain popular. Shopping and “foodie” trips which featured as categories of interest in previous surveys no longer rate in the top five. Outdoor scenic destinations remain the most popular (Exhibit 5).

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Even as people favor trips in their local cities and nearby areas, they are seeking more sophistication and satisfaction beyond buying something new or experiencing new cuisine. Emotional satisfaction is becoming increasingly important. This is in line with the pre-COVID-19 trend of moving away from functional travel, to experiential travel, and ultimately to transformational travel. In other words, travelers wish to learn something new or have a transformative personal experience during their leisure trips.

Accordingly, travel companies could develop products around the major cities as well as culture-trip products inside the cities in response to the desire for short-haul trips exploring new attractions with a preference for culture visits. Companies have begun to act on these trends. For example, Dishui Lake, an hour’s drive from Shanghai witnessed double the number of tourists from 2019 to 2021. 6 “900,000 in 7 days!,” Shanghai Observer , January 28, 2022. In another example, several leading travel-product providers have increased the number of citywalk products for historical sites.

Consider channels: Generation Z and the Silver Generation are different, but not as different as expected

The survey shows that Generation Z and the Silver Generation share many similarities in terms of travel destinations, key travel considerations, how they book their trips, and where they get inspired for their next trip.

Both Generation Z and the Silver Generation have lower income than other groups, but both are important emerging segments for tourism. Generation Z is growing into the future traveler of the tourism market and the Silver Generation is gaining proportion given China’s aging society and this segment’s high travel frequency. The percentage of Chinese citizens above the age of 55 doubled between 1990 and 2020, growing from 12 to 24 percent. 7 United Nations World Population Prospects 2019.

The Silver Generation is now the most active travel segment. The majority of this generation (87 percent) travelled in the past 1-3 months, compared to 60 percent of Generation Z. The average across all age groups for travel in this period is 65 percent. At the time of the survey, a larger portion of Generation Z respondents had traveled in the past two weeks (94 percent). This is the highest for all age groups—with the Silver Generation at 87 percent and the average across age groups at 92 percent.

Digital media as source of travel inspiration is taking the lead, across both generations, but the nuances lie within the digital channels. Both Generation Z and the Silver Generation find inspiration in digital adverts and promotions and are open to digital channels including mobile adds and online travel forums.

The Silver Generation is more inspired by mobile adverts of local agency (11 percent higher than the group average) and less inspired by online videos (9 percent less than the group average). This generation is also inspired by local online travel forums such as Mafengwo, 16 percent higher than the group average.

By comparison, Generation Z is more influenced by online video adverts (13 percent higher than the group average). This generation is less influenced by mobile adverts of local agency (15 percent less than the group average). Across sources of inspiration from related articles and commentaries, Generation Z is more influenced by key opinion leaders or key opinion consumers (6 percent higher than the group average).

Both generations use similar booking channels, with official websites of local online travel companies as their top choice. For instance, 30 percent of Generation Z respondents prefer to book a trip via an official website of a local online travel company, followed by 28 percent via mobile applications of local online travel agencies, and 20 percent via official websites of hotel chains. For the Silver Generation, 40 percent prefer to book a trip via an official website of a local online travel company, followed by 23 percent using stores of traditional travel agencies, and 21 percent booking through customer hotlines of traditional travel agencies. The use of online travel agencies is relatively low (17 percent for official websites of hotel chains and 14 percent for hotlines of hotel chains).

Given that Generation Z and the Silver Generation are emerging as major market segments, with similar demand for product offerings, travel companies can respond to the nuances of how these groups seek inspiration and make bookings. For example, in terms of communication, the Silver Generation seeks inspiration from travel forums, while Generation Z is more likely to respond to short videos. Although the Silver Generation is open to digital channels, they still value human interaction when booking travel.

Cultivate loyalty, beyond loyalty programs

Travel companies may have an opportunity to cultivate loyalty. Brands and loyalty programs may no longer be a defining factor. Instead, satisfaction and uniqueness are becoming increasingly important in making travel choices.

The survey shows that non-branded hotels are generally more popular than branded hotels (56 percent non-branded; 44 percent branded hotels). While branded hotels are still attractive, 40 percent of respondents tend to choose hotels or brands that they have stayed in recently and where they have had a good experience. This highly loyal consumer behavior is more apparent in high-income, middle-aged and senior citizens, and people in tier-1 cities. In the past, loyalty programs have been effective in retaining high-income groups or the Silver Generation, but younger travelers tend to opt for experience rather than brands or loyalty points. Generation Z has higher appetite for local boutique hotels (5 percent more than the group average) but less preference to return to a hotel they have previously visited.

Additionally, there is increasing appetite for local boutique hotels as well as for products that leverage collaboration with other companies to better reach targeted customer groups or offer unique experiences. Among the 56 percent of travellers who prefer to stay in non-branded hotels, 22 percent of these tend to stay in boutique hotels characterized by local or unique features. Across non-branded hotels, the top choice from respondents across all age groups is for boutique hotels and beach resort villas that offer an experience of an exotic culture, or B&B’s and homestays that offer a local experience (Exhibit 6).

When comparing demand in terms of the percentage of respondents interested in branded hotels, there is a disproportional demand for premium hotels and budget hotels. Mid-tier hotels may find it more challenging to capture demand.

Loyalty is now formed around good experiences, unique offerings, or services that make the trip memorable or more convenient, instead of being driven purely by points or discounts. For instance, health and safety concerns such as sanitation and privacy have increased in importance, ranging from 36 percent to 48 percent. But price and promotions still play an important role, particularly with Silver Generation customers. Convenience is a factor: easy-to-go offerings have increased in importance from 25 percent to 39 percent, and door-to-door trip offerings have increased from 26 percent to 35 percent. The only factor that decreased in importance is comfort, from 47 percent to 36 percent.

Accordingly, travel companies can focus on uniqueness or experience to drive loyalty, in tandem with loyalty programs or discounts. They could also consider developing seasonal offerings to satisfy customers’ desire for new attractions and experiences. Branded hotel chains could also expand their offerings by including local experiences.

Actions travel companies can consider

Desire for travel is evident and pent-up demand for outbound travel is accumulating. At the same time, interest in domestic travel is recovering, even though it is temporarily dampened by sporadic COVID-19 outbreaks. In this landscape, travel companies can prepare for surges in demand while taking into account emerging travel preferences. Travel companies may want to tailor their tactics to better serve travelers. In particular, travel companies can be more flexible around customers changing their plans, given rapid changes in policy. They can also focus on local populations within driving distance, differentiate offerings to match shifts in demand, and cultivate loyalty through extra attention to satisfaction and uniqueness. Travel companies can also make use of digital channels to reach customers, and tailor content and format per market segment.

Trends indicate that opportunities are emerging in the domestic market. On the other hand, there are still uncertainties in 2022. Travel companies have the chance to enter the new year with eyes wide open to the changes and manage them closely, while diversifying travel offerings and marketing models to cater to the domestic market—and potentially forging the new domestic operating model into long-term sustainable and inclusive growth.

Jackey Yu and Guang Chen are partners in McKinsey’s Hong Kong Office; Steve Saxon is a partner in McKinsey’s Shenzhen office; and Cherie Zhang is a knowledge expert in the Shanghai office.

The authors wish to thank Glenn Leibowitz, Tairan Xu, Carrie Ma, Zi Chen, and Alex Yang for their contributions to this article.

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China’s uneven travel recovery: Long road to international travel furthers domestic opportunities

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• Section 10 - Cambodia
• Section 10 - India

CDC Yellow Book 2024

Author(s): Sarah Borwein, Kate Gaynor

Destination Overview

Infectious disease risks, environmental hazards & risks, safety & security, availability & quality of medical care.

China, the world’s most populous country (>1.4 billion people), is the fourth largest geographically, behind Russia, Canada, and the United States. Divided into 23 provinces, 5 autonomous regions, 4 municipalities, and 2 Special Administrative Regions ( Map 10-12 ), China is home to diverse customs, languages, and topographies. The climate varies from tropical in the south to subarctic in the north, with wide variations between regions and seasons.

The long history and varied natural beauty of China can be traced through its 56 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall, the terracotta warriors of Xi’an, and the spectacular mountainous sanctuaries of the west. Recent additions include Quanzhou; Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan; Mount Fanjing in southwest China; the archeological ruins of Liangzhu City in the Yangtze River Delta; the migratory bird sanctuaries along the coast of the Bohai Gulf; the Tusi tribal domains in western China; and the Grand Canal, the oldest (dating back to 468 bce) and longest (1,115 miles; 1,794 km) man-made canal in the world.

In 2019, >145 million people visited China, and the number of outbound travelers reached nearly 155 million, 3 times more than in 2010. Tourism in China has grown at an extraordinary pace over the past decade, although the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that began in 2020 has, as everywhere, drastically reduced both inbound and outbound travel. By early 2022, China’s borders remained effectively closed to international tourism; domestic travel, however, had rebounded sharply, reaching (or even exceeding) 2019 levels. Domestic travelers have been flocking to the usual tourist destinations, including sightseeing in Beijing and the Great Wall, touring Shanghai, cruising the Yangtze River, and visiting the Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) site in Anhui Province (see  Box 10-02 for a list of other popular tourist destinations).

Aside from tourism, increasing numbers of people travel to China to visit friends and relatives, to study, to adopt children, or to do humanitarian aid work. These non-tourist travelers might be at greater risk of becoming ill because they underestimate health hazards, are less likely to seek pretravel advice, and are more likely to stay in local or rural accommodations. People traveling to China to adopt often worry about the health of the child (see Sec. 7, Ch. 5, International Adoption ), sometimes neglecting their own health.

China has the world’s second largest economy and more billionaires (658) than any other country in the world. At the same time, per capita income is still below the world average, with wide disparity in wealth and development between the more urban east and the rural west. Health risks vary accordingly.

Map 10-12 China

View Larger Figure

Box 10-02 Popular tourist destinations in China

• GUILIN: uniquely shaped limestone karst mountains, featured in paintings
• HAINAN ISLAND: tropical beaches, luxury resorts
• HARBIN: spectacular annual winter ice festival
• HONG KONG: futuristic architecture, East-meets-West mystique
• MACAU: giant modern casinos contrast with a fascinating Portuguese heritage
• SICHUAN PROVINCE: home to China’s iconic symbol, the giant panda (for more details, see Box 10-03 )
• TIBET: accessible by the world’s highest railroad (maximum elevation 5,072 m; ≈16,600 ft)
• YUNNAN PROVINCE: attractions include the Stone Forest outside Kunming, the historic cobblestone city of Lijiang, the Shangri-La valley, and the Tiger Leaping Gorge
• ZHANGJIAJIE NATIONAL FOREST PARK (HUNAN PROVINCE): dizzying glass-bottomed canyon bridge, the tallest and longest glass bridge in the world; mountains inspired the setting for the movie Avatar

Travelers should be up to date on routine vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccine. Travelers also should be current on vaccines against diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, measles-mumps-rubella, and varicella. China began a massive measles vaccination campaign in September 2010 that has decreased the number of reported measles cases; a brief resurgence occurred during 2013–2015, but high measles vaccination coverage has resulted in historically low numbers of measles cases since 2017. Nonetheless, a few travelers made news headlines by triggering outbreaks in their home countries after returning from China. The reported incidence of rubella has fallen, but availability of data is patchy. Cases of pertussis and varicella occur regularly.

Vaccine Quality & Availability in China

China is making considerable advances in vaccine production, working with established pharmaceutical companies in a joint venture approach or by developing and manufacturing vaccines locally. One example is the recent introduction of the Sinovac-CoronaVac COVID-19 vaccine produced by Sinovac Biotech Ltd., a Chinese biopharmaceutical company based in Beijing.

In the past, counterfeit and improperly stored vaccines were a major issue, but China has waged a robust response to recent vaccine scandals and these issues are now rare, at least in major urban areas. Vaccine shortages are, however, frequent. For example, meningococcal vaccines were in short supply in parts of China during 2017–2018, and as of late 2021, tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) vaccine for adults was not available anywhere on the mainland. Travelers should not assume they can complete an unfinished vaccination series once in China; thus, ensure that all travelers going to China are up to date with routine vaccination series before travel. By contrast, circumstances in Hong Kong are different; international vaccines are in use there and are generally available.

Bloodborne Pathogens

Hepatitis b.

Hepatitis B infection is endemic to China (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 8, Hepatitis B ). Nearly one-third of the 350 million people worldwide infected with the hepatitis B virus reside in China. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends hepatitis B vaccine for all US adults aged 19–59 years; hepatitis B vaccine should be considered for nonimmune travelers to China.

Enteric Infections & Diseases

Brucellosis.

Brucellosis occurs in pastoral areas of China, particularly the northwest. Travelers should strictly avoid raw or unpasteurized milk products and undercooked meat products (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 3, Brucellosis ).

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E is highly endemic in China and can be acquired by drinking untreated water, eating undercooked meats, or staying in areas with poor sanitation (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 10, Hepatitis E ). Pregnant people in their third trimester are at particular risk for severe disease. Because no routine vaccine is available, advise travelers to practice good hand hygiene and to adhere to safe food and water precautions (see Sec. 2, Ch. 8, Food & Water Precautions ).

The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region borders Pakistan, a polio-endemic country. Adults traveling to this region who will be working in health care facilities, humanitarian aid settings, or refugee camps should be vaccinated against polio, including a single lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine as an adult (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 17, Poliomyelitis ).

Travelers’ Diarrhea

The risk for travelers’ diarrhea (see Sec. 2, Ch. 6, Travelers’ Diarrhea ) appears to be low in so-called “luxury” accommodations in China but moderate elsewhere. Travelers should adhere to safe food and water precautions, and strictly avoid undercooked fish and shellfish and (as noted previously) unpasteurized milk (see Sec. 2, Ch. 8, Food & Water Precautions ).

Other than in Hong Kong, tap water is not safe to drink, even in major cities. Most hotels provide boiled or bottled water, and bottled water is readily available.

Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is not a significant risk in China’s major urban areas. Consider vaccinating travelers planning visits to rural areas, adventure travelers, and travelers visiting friends and relatives. Advise them to adhere to safe food and water precautions.

Respiratory Infections & Diseases

Coronavirus disease 2019.

Located in central China at the confluence of the Han and Yangtze rivers, Wuhan is a city of 11 million people and a major travel hub accessible by air, land, and water. On December 31, 2019, Chinese officials reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) an outbreak of unusual pneumonia cases linked to a seafood market there. The outbreak spread globally, and on March 11, 2020, WHO officially declared COVID-19 a pandemic.

In response to the outbreak, officials in China combined a swift and stringent lockdown of Wuhan and Hubei Province, with public health messaging, widespread testing, contact tracing, and isolation of all cases and quarantine of contacts. They also built several brand new, full-service COVID-19 hospitals within a matter of days, and established a network of fangcang (makeshift) hospitals in public venues (e.g., convention centers, sports stadiums).

Patients with mild illness were isolated in these newly established facilities, thereby reducing the risk of infecting household members. Confirmed or suspected cases were required to be seen at a small number of government- designated fever clinics. Indoor mask-wearing was strictly enforced. Tracking mobile phone applications assigned users a color-coded QR code based on their risk for infection. A green QR code became mandatory for entry into many facilities including stores, restaurants, and public transportation.

All travelers going to China should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines .

Tuberculosis

China remains moderately endemic for tuberculosis (TB). Travelers can become infected through exposure to a person with active Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Consuming unpasteurized milk products poses a risk for infection with Mycobacterium bovis , another mycobacterium that can cause TB disease in people. For long-term travelers or travelers whose itineraries place them at increased risk for exposure, consider predeparture TB testing with retesting upon their return home. For more details, see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 22, Tuberculosis , and Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 23, . . . perspectives: Testing Travelers for Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection .

Sexually Transmitted Infections & HIV

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis, are a growing problem in China, particularly along the booming eastern seaboard. Drug-resistant gonorrhea is increasingly prevalent. Make travelers aware of STI risks and the importance of using condoms when having sex with anyone whose HIV or STI status is unknown. As previously noted, travelers also should receive hepatitis B vaccination before travel.

Soil- & Waterborne Infections

Schistosomias & leptospirosis.

Although eradication programs have been quite successful, schistosomiasis (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 20, Schistosomiasis ), primarily due to Schistosoma japonicum , continues to be reported in various areas, including the Yangtze and Mekong River basins. Advise travelers to avoid freshwater swimming, which also decreases their risk of contracting the bacterial illness, leptospirosis (Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 10).

Vectorborne Diseases

Chikungunya & dengue.

Chikungunya has been reported in China, but the level of risk is not well quantified. Dengue, however, is known to be a more significant health risk (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 4, Dengue ). In 2014, China experienced its worst dengue outbreak in decades; Guangdong province reported >40,000 cases in just 2 months. Dengue epidemics occur in China every 4–6 years, mostly in the southern provinces. Travelers should practice insect bite precautions during the summer months (see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods ).

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis (JE) occurs in all regions of China except Qinghai, Xinjiang, and Xizang (Tibet) (see Table 5-13). China has successfully reduced the incidence of JE through vaccination and, as of 2008, included JE in its expanded national immunization program; JE remains a potential threat to unvaccinated travelers, however.

Although JE season varies by region, most cases occur in local residents during June–October. In addition to season of travel, the risk to travelers depends on their activities, destination, and duration of stay. JE vaccine is recommended for travelers planning to spend ≥1 month in endemic (mainly rural) areas during June–October, when risk for transmission is greatest.

Consider vaccinating shorter-term travelers (<1 month) who plan to visit rural areas, and travelers at increased risk for JE virus exposure based on anticipated activities or itineraries (e.g., those spending substantial time outdoors or staying in accommodations without air conditioning, mosquito nets, or window screens). Sporadic JE cases have occurred on an unpredictable basis in short-term travelers, including in peri-urban Beijing and Shanghai. See Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 13, Japanese Encephalitis , for more detailed information.

In the 1940s, China reported >30 million cases of malaria per year. A 70-year eradication campaign progressively reduced numbers, and in 2021, WHO declared China malaria-free. Travelers should still follow insect bite precautions, however, because of the risk for infection with other vectorborne diseases (see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods ).

Plague outbreaks occur sporadically in the northern and southwestern areas of the country (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 15, Plague ). Plague is rarely seen in tourists but is a risk to campers, hikers, hunters, spelunkers, and others exposed to wild rodents or flea-infested cats and dogs.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is present in northeastern parts of China and is a risk during March–November. Consider recommending TBE vaccination for travelers engaging in outdoor activities (e.g., camping, hiking) in endemic areas (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 23, Tick-Borne Encephalitis ). Even among vaccinated travelers, reinforce the importance of taking preventive measures (e.g., wearing long pants tucked into socks, using insect repellent, regularly checking for ticks).

Box 10-03 Visiting a giant panda reserve in Sichuan Province: health considerations for travelers

The giant panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca ) is China’s national emblem and one of its most iconic images. Native to south central China, the giant panda’s natural habitat has been greatly encroached upon and only a small number of these animals now exist in the wild, in remote areas where seeing them is almost impossible. In response, the Chinese government established over 60 giant panda reserves across southwestern China. Travel to Sichuan province to visit one or more of these habitats and to see the stunning scenery has become increasingly popular. In some locations, especially during the hot summer months, giant pandas spend much time inside, viewable only through glass. The Sichuan giant panda reserves were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Located just 10 km (≈6 mi) north of the city of Chengdu, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a well-developed park.

In some reserves (including the Chengdu Research Base), visitors can get closer to the animals by joining a Panda Volunteer program. Participation in these programs is generally available only to adults and must be arranged and paid for in advance. Programs can vary from one day to one month in length and some might require participants to provide certification of good health. Opportunities to photograph the wildlife can be limited.

Animal bites

Sichuan Province has a large population of free-roaming dogs. Consider any dog bite a rabies risk. Because of the distance from definitive medical care, including postexposure prophylaxis, encourage travelers planning to visit Sichuan to consider rabies preexposure prophylaxis.

Despite their cute and cuddly appearance, giant pandas are wild animals with a very powerful bite. They can also be infected with rabies. Travelers should avoid any temptation to get close to giant pandas for a “selfie” or a hug.

Elevation & Terrain of Giant Panda Reserves

The terrain harboring the giant panda reserves is often rugged and at elevations ranging from 1,100 m (≈3,600 ft) to 4,400 m (≈14,400 ft). Advise tourists visiting reserves at high elevation to acclimatize slowly, and to consider carrying acetazolamide.

The region has many smaller reserves, some of which are peri-urban, others of which can be quite remote and require considerable travel or trekking, making them inaccessible to physically challenged or less physically fit travelers.

Road travel risks apply to these more remote reserves.

Travelers to less urban reserves should be prepared for remoteness and travel with a well-stocked travel health kit.

Food & Water Precautions and Sanitation

Travelers to Sichuan Province should follow safe food and water precautions.

Flush toilets are unlikely to be available.

Air Pollution

Rapid economic expansion and industrialization since 1978 has resulted in serious air pollution issues, along with water and soil contamination, that peaked in 2013. Regional haze triggered public anxiety and official concern, leading to the Air Pollution and Control Plan, which was implemented in 2013; subsequently a series of other initiatives to control soil, water, and plastic waste pollution began.

To tackle air pollution, China introduced several policies and measures targeted at reducing emissions and promoting alternative energy production. Increased use of natural gas and restrictions against burning coal are key to these plans. Other measures included closing highly polluting factories, moving factories farther away from population centers, afforestation projects (planting trees in areas where there had been no trees before), and promoting the use of electric vehicles. These measures have resulted in a dramatic reduction in air pollution, particularly in fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

Once renowned for its toxic haze, Beijing is no longer among the 10 most polluted cities in the world. Nonetheless, pollution remains a problem in many parts of the country; and China still accounts for over half of the world’s 200 most polluted cities. In the spring of 2021, several large sandstorms originating in southern Mongolia blanketed eastern China in hazardous dust. These sandstorms are unpredictable and are likely to continue. Travelers can check 5-day air quality forecasts .

Short-term exposure to the levels of air pollution in China’s megacities can irritate the eyes and throat. Travelers with underlying cardiorespiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or congestive heart failure, might find their condition exacerbated. In addition, exposure to high levels of air pollution significantly increases the risk for upper and lower respiratory tract infections, including otitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Children and older people are most vulnerable.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, surgical- style facemasks were fashionable in China’s large cities, especially Beijing, Hong Kong, and Shanghai; facemasks provide wearers no protection from air pollution, however. Properly fitted N95 masks can filter out particulates and might be advisable for people determined to engage in outdoor exercise at times when air quality is very poor (see Sec. 4, Ch. 3, Air Quality & Ionizing Radiation ). Many facilities, particularly schools, have installed sophisticated central air-filtering devices and constructed enclosed sports venues.

Altitude Illness

Western China is home to some of the tallest mountains in the world. Some popular destinations are Xining (2,295 m; ≈7,500 ft), Lijiang (2,418 m; ≈7,900 ft), Shangri-La (3,280 m; ≈11,000 ft), and Lhasa (3,658 m; ≈12,000 ft). Preparation and gradual ascent to acclimatize are the mainstays travelers should follow to prevent the onset of altitude illness (see Sec. 4, Ch. 5, High Elevation Travel & Altitude Illness ).

Visitors planning high elevation travel whose itineraries do not permit gradual acclimatization— or people otherwise known to be at risk for developing acute mountain sickness (AMS)—should carry their own supply of acetazolamide, because it is not reliably available in China. Dexamethasone, used to both prevent and treat AMS and high-altitude cerebral edema, and to potentially prevent high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), reportedly is available in China. Similarly, nifedipine (as a prevention and treatment for HAPE) reportedly is available. The quality and ready availability of either of these drugs is unknown; thus, as with acetazolamide, travelers should carry a personal supply in a travel health kit.

Animal Bites & Rabies

An analysis of data collected by the GeoSentinel Surveillance Network showed that dog bites are surprisingly common among tourists to China. In addition, in China (as in much of Asia) rabies remains a serious problem. Animal rabies is endemic in China and might even be increasing, especially in the dog population. Thus, travelers should consider any dog or other mammal bite received anywhere in China, including urban areas, a high risk for rabies infection (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 18, Rabies ).

Because international-standard rabies immune globulin is often unavailable, animal bites can be trip-enders, requiring evacuation to Bangkok, Hong Kong, or home, to receive appropriate postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). Rabies is a particular risk for younger children, who are more likely to approach animals and less likely to report bites or scratches. Incorporate a discussion of rabies risk and prevention during pretravel consultations, and develop a strategy with travelers for dealing with possible exposures, including purchasing medical evacuation insurance coverage (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ). Consider providing long-term travelers and expatriates going to live in China with the rabies preexposure vaccination series.

Human rabies deaths in China peaked at 3,300 cases in 2007 and decreased to 290 cases in 2019; the decline in human rabies deaths is mainly attributable to widespread use of PEP and public PEP awareness.

Natural Disasters

Five of the 10 deadliest natural disasters in history have occurred in China. In the last few decades, almost every type of major hazard except volcanic eruption has hit China, including cold waves, droughts, earthquakes, forest and grassland fires, hailstorms, heat waves, red tides, sandstorms, and torrential rains resulting in debris flows and landslides. Typhoons and storm surges occur regularly along the southern and eastern seaboards.

Earthquakes cause significant death and destruction. For instance, devastating earthquakes struck the western provinces of Qinghai in 2010 and Sichuan in 2019. Advise US citizen travelers to enroll with the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP; https://step.state.gov/step); STEP will provide travelers with information and alerts from local US embassies or consulates about disasters, safety, and security issues at their destination.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency is a major issue in the northern provinces of China, where (despite the progress in reducing air pollution noted previously) smog blocks out sunlight, leading to inadequate vitamin D absorption even during the summer months. To decrease the risk of osteomalacia and osteoporosis in travelers spending >6 months in China, prescribe vitamin D supplementation.

Wet Markets

So-called “wet markets” are common throughout China, south Asia, and southeast Asia. The term wet market is a generic one, encompassing many types of marketplaces selling perishable goods; some sell only fruit and vegetables, but others sell live animals that are slaughtered on-site after purchase. Most do not sell wild or exotic animals, and the tendency to lump all wet markets together has fueled Sinophobia related to the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The exotic animal trade has been banned in China, but smuggling of animals (e.g., pangolins) is highly profitable and difficult to control. A coordinated international response will be required to curb the exotic animal trade. Travelers should avoid visiting markets selling live animals because these have been linked with many zoonotic outbreaks, including monkeypox and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Avian influenza transmission is another reason for travelers to avoid live animal markets.

Rates of violent crime are low in China, but minor theft, pickpocketing, and various forms of scams and fraud do occur, especially in densely populated and more heavily touristed areas. Scams targeting foreign businesses also have been reported. Travelers should remain vigilant about their personal belongings, and avoid responding to emails from, or giving out sensitive information to, unknown sources.

Political Unrest

Travelers should be aware of and avoid involvement in protests and flare-ups of unrest in places as diverse as Hong Kong, Tibet, and Xinjiang Province. Travelers also should avoid public criticism of the Communist Party or the government. The internet is censored, and many widely used social media sites might be unavailable.

Traffic-Related Injuries

Traffic in China is often chaotic. The rate of traffic crashes, including fatal ones, is among the highest in the world (see Sec. 8, Ch. 5, Road & Traffic Safety ). Traffic crashes, even minor ones, can create major traffic jams and sometimes turn into violent altercations, particularly when foreign travelers are involved (see Sec. 4, Ch. 11, Safety & Security Overseas ).

China has not signed the convention that created the International Driving Permit and requires travelers to have a Chinese license to drive. Recent regulations have allowed foreign travelers to obtain a temporary (≤3 months) driver’s license, if they have a valid overseas driver’s license and a notarized copy translated into Chinese; in addition, travelers are required to attend lessons on Chinese road safety regulations.

Driving is on the right side of the road in mainland China and Taiwan, but on the left in Hong Kong and Macau. If travelers choose to drive, advise them to avoid driving at night or when weather conditions are bad, and to not assume that traffic rules or rights-of-way will be respected. Despite national seatbelt legislation being in effect since 2004, seatbelt use is inconsistent, and rear seatbelts often are unavailable. Use of child safety seats recently become mandatory. For all these reasons, travelers likely will find it safer and simpler to hire a local driver or to use public transportation than to drive themselves. Travelers should take care when opening the door of a taxi or private vehicle, to avoid hitting cyclists or pedestrians.

Electronic Bicycles

Electronic bicycles (E-bikes) are popular in China and do not have to be registered. E-bike riders often travel in pedestrian and bicycle lanes as well as with traffic. Because E-bikes have no engine noise, pedestrians might not readily identify an oncoming E-bike. Motor vehicles and E-bikes often drive without lights, making night travel dangerous. Bicycle helmets are rarely worn in China; a new 2020 law requiring helmet use for riders of motorcycles and E-bikes has resulted in a shortage of available helmets.

Strongly encourage travelers to invest in travel health insurance, including medical evacuation insurance coverage (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ). Many hospitals do not accept foreign medical insurance, and patients are expected to pay a deposit to cover the anticipated cost of treatment before care is delivered. Many major cities, including Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Shenzhen have medical facilities that meet international standards. Hospitals in other cities might have “VIP wards” ( gaogan bingfang ) with English-speaking staff. The standard of care in such facilities is somewhat unpredictable, however, and cultural and regulatory differences can cause difficulties for travelers. In rural areas, rudimentary medical care might be all that is available.

Blood & Blood Product Safety

Hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus transmission from poorly sterilized medical equipment remains a risk in remote areas. The blood supply is heavily regulated and generally deemed safe, but is very limited, especially for rare types, including Rhesus negative blood; hospitals usually have only a few units of blood on hand. Rhogam legally is available only in Hong Kong, and recently in Shenzhen, under a new program permitting drugs and medical equipment already marketed in Hong Kong to be used in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau “Greater Bay Area” after approval.

Emergency Medical Services

Emergency medical services are scarce in many parts of China, most acutely in rural areas. In major cities, 2 types of ambulance are available: general ambulances and ambulances that carry more advanced medical equipment. No recognized paramedic profession exists in China, and ambulances might be staffed instead with doctors or nurses with variable levels of training. In many rural areas, rather than waiting for an ambulance to arrive, injured travelers might be better off taking a taxi or other immediately available vehicle to the nearest major hospital.

Medical Tourism

Most people who choose to try traditional Chinese remedies do so uneventfully, albeit not without accepting some risk. Remind travelers that acupuncture needles can be a source of bloodborne and skin infections; acupressure might be preferable. Herbal medicine products can be contaminated with heavy metals or pharmaceutical agents.

China is currently witnessing an influx of patients coming from Africa seeking treatment not available in their home countries. Medical tourists from high-income countries looking for as-yet unapproved experimental treatments are also a growing market (see Sec. 6, Ch. 4, Medical Tourism ).

Pharmacies often sell prescription medications over the counter, but these can be counterfeit, substandard, or contaminated (see Sec. 6, Ch. 3, . . . perspectives: Avoiding Poorly Regulated Medicines & Medical Products During Travel ). Advise travelers to bring all their regular medications in sufficient quantity. If travelers need more or other medications, recommend that they visit a reputable clinic or hospital. China allows travelers to bring controlled medications into the country in quantities “reasonable for personal use.” Especially for controlled medications, travelers are expected to carry a copy of the written prescription with them and, whenever possible, a signed note from the prescribing physician written on letterhead stationery.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Sarah T. Borwein, Roohollah Changizi

Bibliography

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Burki T. China’s successful control of COVID-19. Lancet Infect Dis. 2020;20(11):1240–1.

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Li Z, Xu Jindong, Xu J, Tan H, Zhang C. Current situation, causes, and countermeasures to NIP vaccine shortages in Guangzhou, China. Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2020;16(1):76–9.

Lu X, Zhang S, Xing J, Wang Y, Chen W, Ding D, et al. Progress of air pollution control in China and its challenges and opportunities in the ecological civilization era. Engineering. 2020;6(12):1423–31.

Miao F, Li N, Yang J, Chen T, Liu Y, Zhang S, et al. Neglected challenges in the control of animal rabies in China. One Health. 2021;12:100212.

Shaw MT, Leggat PA, Borwein S. Travelling to China for the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic games. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2007;5(6):365–73.

United Nations World Tourism Organization. UNWTO tourism highlights: 2018 Edition. Madrid: The Organization; 2018. Available from: www.e-unwto.org/doi/book/10.18111/9789284419876 .

World Health Organization. Global hepatitis report 2017. Geneva: The Organization; 2017. Available from: www.who.int/publications/i/item/global-hepatitis-report-2017 .

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Yu X, Li N. Understanding the beginning of a pandemic: China’s response to the emergence of COVID-19. J Infect Public Health. 2021;14(3):347–52.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in China set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Chinese Embassy in the UK . 

Immigration authorities may check and collect biometric data (for example, scanned fingerprints and photos) to register your entry into China.

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering China.

Passport validity requirements 

To enter China, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive in China and 2 blank pages for visas and stamping.

Visa requirements 

You need a visa to visit mainland China. 

You can visit Hong Kong or Macao without a visa. See separate travel advice for Hong Kong and Macao . 

You can also visit the island of Hainan for 30 days without a visa. 

Visa-free transit through China is permitted, from 24 hours to 144 hours depending on location. See China Visa Application Centre for more information.  

If you visit Hong Kong from mainland China and want to return to the mainland, you need a visa that allows you to make a second entry into China. 

Check your visa details carefully and do not overstay your visa. The authorities carry out regular checks and may fine, detain and deport you. 

If you want to stay in China longer than 6 months, you may need to get a residence permit. 

Applying for a visa 

If you’re 14 to 70 years old, you must apply for a visa in person at a visa application centre . If you’re aged 13 and under or aged 71 and over, you can only apply online. You must provide biometric data (scanned fingerprints) as part of your application. There are visa application centres in London, Manchester, Belfast and Edinburgh. The details of their opening hours are on their websites.  

The Chinese Embassy has further information on visa categories and how to apply .

Dual Chinese-British nationality 

China does not recognise dual nationality. If you enter China on a Chinese passport or identity card, the British Embassy may not be able to offer you help. If you were born in China to a Chinese national parent, you will be: 

• considered by the Chinese authorities to have Chinese nationality 
• treated as a Chinese citizen, even if you used a British passport to enter China 

If you have formally renounced Chinese citizenship, you should carry clear evidence that you have done so. See guidance on nationality in China .

Working in China 

You can only work in China if you have a work visa (Z visa). Tourist and business visas do not allow you to work. You must also hold a valid work permit. The local police regularly carry out checks on companies and schools. If you do not follow Chinese immigration laws, there can be serious penalties, including: 

• imprisonment 
• deportation 
• an exit ban, which stops you from leaving China 
• an exclusion order, which stops you from returning 

Before you leave the UK, contact the Chinese Embassy in the UK to check Z visa requirements. When submitting your application, and when you receive your work permit, check the details are correct, including the location you’ll be working in. You can be fined or detained if details are incorrect, even if your employer or others have submitted the application on your behalf. 

If you change employer once you’re in China, or change location in China with an existing employer, check with the Chinese authorities whether you need a new visa and work permit before doing so.

Vaccination requirements  

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s China guide . 

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever certificate.

Registering with the Chinese authorities 

You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival. Chinese authorities enforce this rule with regular spot-checks of foreigners’ documentation. If you’re staying in a hotel, they will register you when you check in. 

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of China . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

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Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

Getty Images

Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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Tags: Russia , Ukraine , Travel , Coronavirus , Travel Tips , Israel , Gaza , violence , Civil War , crime , kidnapping , international relations

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