China Entry Requirements: All You Need to Know
China Entry Requirements: All You Need to Know
August 24th, 2026 at 9:56 AM GMT+7
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To ensure a smooth entry into China, you need to prepare all required documents, complete health/customs declarations, and pre-install necessary mobile applications.
Personal Documents & Visa
Personal Documents & Visa
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry with blank pages remaining.
Visa:
Tourist/Business Visa (L, M, etc.) issued by the Chinese Embassy/Consulate.
Exceptions: Citizens of certain countries are eligible for a 30-day visa-free stay when travelling directly to Hainan Island, or a 240-hour (10-day) transit visa exemption when travelling from Country A -> China -> Country B (with confirmed onward tickets).
Additional Documents (depending on purpose): Business invitation letter, School Admission Notice (for students), or proof of family relationship (for visiting relatives).
China Customs Regulations
China Customs Regulations
Permitted Items:
Personal Belongings: Phones, tablets, clothing, personal toiletries.
Duty-Free Allowance: 1 liter of alcohol; 400 cigarettes (or 100 cigars).
Personal Medication: Sufficient quantity for personal use; a doctor's prescription is recommended.
Cash Allowance: Customs declaration is required if carrying over 20,000 RMB or 5,000 USD (or foreign currency equivalent).
Prohibited or Restricted Items:
Contraband: Illegal drugs and prohibited chemicals.
Obscene Material: Strictly prohibited.
Counterfeit Goods: Fake brand items or copyright-infringing goods are banned.
Wild Animal Products: Ivory, products from endangered species.
Food Items: Fresh fruits, raw meat, milk, cheese, and seeds are prohibited.
Guide to Completing the Arrival Card
Guide to Completing the Arrival Card
Foreign travelers can complete their entry declaration in advance via:
Official Website: https://s.nia.gov.cn/ArrivalCardFillingPC/
Mobile App: Immigration Bureau 12367
Mini-program: Search for "Immigration Bureau 12367" on WeChat or Alipay.
At the Port of Entry: Self-service kiosks or paper Foreigner Arrival Cards available at customs.
Note: Declarations must be completed within 24 hours prior to arrival in China. Once submitted, a QR code will be generated to scan upon arrival.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to China
Tips for First-Time Visitors to China
Payment Apps: Cash is rarely used. Download Alipay or WeChat Pay and link your international credit/debit card (Visa/Mastercard) before your trip.
Internet Connection: Purchase a China eSIM or travel SIM to stay connected. Pre-install a VPN if you need access to Google, Facebook, or Instagram.
eSIM/Travel SIM: Most travel eSIMs use international data roaming, routing traffic outside China so you can access Google, Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and Zalo without additional software.
Wi-Fi Networks: When connected to Wi-Fi at hotels, restaurants, or airports, the Great Firewall will block international apps. A VPN is required to bypass this.
Setup in Advance: VPN websites and app stores (App Store, Google Play) are blocked inside China. Download and set up your VPN in your home country before departure.
Transportation & Navigation: Download DiDi for ride-hailing and navigation apps such as Amap (Gaode) or Baidu Maps.
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