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CHINA

China
People's Republic of China
TRAVEL ADVISORY
MARCH 10, 2023


CHINA - LEVEL 3: RECONSIDER TRAVEL

O D K E N H U T C
Reconsider travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including the Special
Administrative Regions (SARs) of Hong Kong and Macau due to arbitrary
enforcement of local laws. See specific risks and conditions in each
jurisdiction below. Commercial transportation options for international
departure and arrival are available. Exercise increased caution in the PRC due
to wrongful detentions.

Reissued with updates to COVID-19 information.

Reconsider travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including the Special
Administrative Regions (SARs) of Hong Kong and Macau due to arbitrary
enforcement of local laws. See specific risks and conditions in each
jurisdiction below.  Commercial transportation options for international
departure and arrival are available. Exercise increased caution in the PRC due
to wrongful detentions.

Country Summary: The PRC government arbitrarily enforces local laws, including
issuing exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries without fair
and transparent process under the law.

The Department has determined the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals
by the PRC government exists in mainland China.

U.S. citizens traveling or residing in the PRC, including the Hong Kong SAR and
the Macau SAR, may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or
information about their alleged crime. U.S. citizens in the PRC may be subjected
to prolonged interrogations and extended detention without due process of law.

Foreigners in the PRC and the Hong Kong SAR, including but not limited to
businesspeople, former foreign government personnel, and journalists have been
unjustly interrogated and detained by PRC officials for alleged violations of
PRC national security laws. The PRC has also interrogated, detained, and
expelled U.S. citizens living and working in the PRC.

Security personnel may detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for sending private
electronic messages critical of the PRC, Hong Kong SAR, or Macau SAR
governments.

In addition, the PRC government has used restrictions on travel or departure
from the PRC, or so-called exit bans, to:

 * compel individuals to participate in PRC government investigations,
 * pressure family members of the restricted individual to return to the PRC
   from abroad,
 * resolve civil disputes in favor of PRC citizens, and
 * gain bargaining leverage over foreign governments.

In most cases, U.S. citizens only become aware of an exit ban when they attempt
to depart the PRC, and there is no reliable mechanism or legal process to find
out how long the ban might continue or to contest it in a court of law. 
Relatives, including minor children, of those under investigation in the PRC may
become subject to an exit ban.

The PRC, Hong Kong SAR, and Macau SAR governments do not recognize dual
nationality.  U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese descent may be
subject to additional scrutiny and harassment, and the PRC, Hong Kong SAR, and
Macau SAR governments may prevent the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General
from providing consular services.

Check with the PRC Embassy in the United States for the most updated information
on travel to the PRC. In some limited circumstances travelers to mainland China
may face additional testing requirements to enter some facilities or events.

The Department of State does not provide or coordinate direct medical care to
private U.S. citizens abroad. U.S. citizens overseas may receive PRC-approved
COVID vaccine doses where they are eligible.

The PRC government has not authorized for general use in mainland China many
COVID vaccines commonly available in the United States and Europe, including
AstraZeneca, Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson and Johnson products. It has
conditionally authorized thirteen PRC-made vaccines; these are available to
anyone residing in China. The FDA has not approved the two most commonly
available, Sinopharm and Sinovac. Sinopharm and Sinovac have received approval
for emergency use by the World Health Organization (WHO).

In Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR, BioNTech mRNA COVID vaccines including the
bivalent option are available. Please contact local health authorities for
information on available vaccines.

Visit the FDA’s website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United
States.

XINJIANG UYGHUR AUTONOMOUS REGION and TIBET AUTONOMOUS REGION

Extra security measures, such as security checks and increased levels of police
presence, are common in the Xinjiang Uyghur and Tibet Autonomous Regions.
Authorities may impose curfews and travel restrictions on short notice.

HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION

Since the imposition of the National Security Law on June 30, 2020, the PRC
unilaterally and arbitrarily exercises police and security power in the Hong
Kong SAR. The PRC has demonstrated an intent to use this authority to target a
broad range of activities it defines as acts of secession, subversion,
terrorism, and collusion with foreign entities. The National Security Law also
covers offenses committed by non-Hong Kong residents or organizations outside of
Hong Kong, which could subject U.S. citizens who have been publicly critical of
the PRC to a heightened risk of arrest, detention, expulsion, or prosecution.
PRC security forces, including the new Office for Safeguarding National
Security, now operate in the Hong Kong SAR and are not subject to oversight by
the Hong Kong judiciary.

Demonstrations: Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that
authorities interpret as constituting an act of secession, subversion,
terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country could result in criminal charges.
U.S. citizens are strongly cautioned to be aware of their surroundings and avoid
demonstrations.

Propaganda: A PRC propaganda campaign has falsely accused individuals, including
U.S. citizens, of fomenting unrest in the Hong Kong SAR. In some cases, the
campaign has published their personal information, resulting in threats of
violence on social media.

Read the country information page for the PRC, the information page for the Hong
Kong SAR, and the information page for the Macau SAR for additional information
on travel.

If you decide to travel to the PRC, including the Hong Kong SAR and the Macau
SAR:

 * Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any
   international travel, read the Embassy COVID-19 page for the PRC and
   the Consulate General COVID-19 page for the Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR for
   specific COVID-19 information.
 * For the Hong Kong SAR, monitor local media, local transportations sites, and
   apps like MTR Mobile or CitybusNWFB, and the Hong Kong International Airport
   website for updates.
 * Avoid demonstrations.
 * Exercise caution in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
 * Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission.
 * Be aware of your surroundings.
 * Keep a low profile.
 * For the Hong Kong SAR, review your Hong Kong flight status with your airline
   or at the Hong Kong International Airport website.
 * Enter the PRC on your U.S. passport with a valid PRC visa and keep it with
   you.
 * If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the
   U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate immediately.
 * If you plan to enter the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), read
   the DPRK Travel Advisory. Travelers should note that U.S. passports are not
   valid for travel to, in, or through the DPRK, unless they are specially
   validated by the Department of State.
 * Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and
   make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
 * Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow the U.S.
   Embassy on Twitter, WeChat, and Weibo. Follow the U.S. Consulate General Hong
   Kong and Macau on Facebook and Twitter.
 * Review the Country Security Report for the PRC, the Hong Kong SAR, and the
   Macau SAR.
 * Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your
   travel.
 * Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s
   Checklist.

... [READ MORE]


EMBASSY MESSAGES


ALERTS

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QUICK FACTS


PASSPORT VALIDITY:


Six months

BLANK PASSPORT PAGES:


Two pages

TOURIST VISA REQUIRED:


Yes

VACCINATIONS:


None

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY:


Max RMB 20,000

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT:


Max RMB 20,000

ALL / ALL /

EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES




U.S. Embassy Beijing

No. 55 An Jia Lou Road 
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600 
China 
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000 
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000 
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300 
The Embassy consular district includes the municipalities of Beijing, Tianjin,
Gansu, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Inner Mongolia, Jiangxi, Ningxia, Qinghai,
Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, Xinjiang, Chongqing, Guizhou, Sichuan, Yunnan, Tibet 
BeijingACS@state.gov

U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong
26 Garden Road
Central, Hong Kong
Telephone: (852) 2841-2211
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (852) 2523-9011
Fax: (852) 2845-1598
Email: acshk@state.gov 
This consular district includes Macau  

Consulates 

U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou 
43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District 
Guangzhou 510623 
China 
Telephone: +(86)(20) 3814-5775 
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000 
Fax: +(86)(20) 3814-5572 
Email: GuangzhouACS@state.gov 
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Fujian,
Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan  

U.S. Consulate General Shanghai 
Westgate Mall, 9th Floor, 1038 Nanjing Xi Lu, 
Shanghai 200031 
China 
Telephone: +(86)(21) 8011-2400 
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000 
Fax: +(86)(21) 6148-8266 
Email: ShanghaiACS@state.gov 
This consular district includes Shanghai municipality and the provinces of
Shanghai, Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang 

U.S. Consulate General Shenyang 
No. 52, 14th Wei Road, Heping District, 
Shenyang 110003 
China 
Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198 
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198 
Fax: +(86)(24) 2323-1465 
Email: ShenyangACS@state.gov 
This consular district includes: the provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning 

The U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan 
New World International Trade Tower I, 
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue 
Hankou, Wuhan 430022 
China 
Telephone: +(86)(027) 8555-7791 
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000 
Fax: +(86)(027) 8555-7761 
Please note that Consulate General Wuhan is currently providing information and
emergency services for U.S. citizens. Regular ACS services are expected in Fall
2022.  For routine services at this time please contact U.S. Embassy Beijing 
WuhanACS@state.gov

DESTINATION DESCRIPTION




Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

ENTRY, EXIT AND VISA REQUIREMENTS




Entry & Exit:

 * Obtain a visa prior to arrival and have a passport with at least six months'
   validity remaining. The lack of either will result in a fine and immediate
   deportation.
 * Apply for a ten-year multiple entry visa, useful for repeated travel, or
   trips to Hong Kong or Macau with returns to China.
 * If you plan to work in China, be sure to obtain the correct visa. Working in
   China is not permissible on a student or tourist visa, and may result in
   detention, criminal charges and deportation.
 * You must have a valid visa to exit China and you must leave China before the
   expiration of the listed duration of stay. 

Lack of a visa, having an expired visa, or overstaying your visa will result in
detention and/or fines.

 * Apply for a visa extension from your local Entry/Exit Bureau before
   attempting to leave the country. Do not expect your request to be expedited,
   so apply ahead of time.
 * Visit the website of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China for
   current visa information as well as information on China’s immigration and
   nationality laws.

The Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR):

The TAR requires special permits for tourist travel, most often obtained through
a Chinese travel agent. If you do enter a restricted area without the requisite
permit, you could be fined, taken into custody, and deported for illegal entry.
To learn more about specific entry requirements for Tibet or other restricted
areas, check with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for
visitors to or foreign residents of China.

Transiting China:

 * When transiting certain international airports, you may stay in mainland
   China without a Chinese visa.
 * The duration of allowed stay and how broadly you may travel varies by
   region. 
 * Transiting without a visa requires a valid passport, a visa for your onward
   destination (if necessary), and an onward ticket from the same location.
 * You must inform your airline upon check-in and get an endorsement stamp at
   the immigration desk before leaving the airport.
 * Consult the Chinese Embassy/consulate for a current list of eligible airports
   and more detailed guidance.
 * Chinese border officials have the authority to deny foreign travelers’ entry
   to China without warning or explanation. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates
   cannot intervene on your behalf if denied entry to China.

During Your Stay: 

 * Failure to register with the police within 24 hours of arrival in the country
   could result in fines and deportation. You can register with hotel staff or
   the local police station. 
 * Local regulations require foreigners to carry valid passports and Chinese
   visas or residence permits at all times.
 * Entry and exit requirements are strictly enforced, as are restrictions on
   activities allowed by any particular visa class. 
 * Police, school administrators, transportation officials, and hotel staff may
   check your visa to make sure you have not overstayed. If you overstay your
   visa’s duration of stay, you may be denied service by hotels, airports and
   train stations, as well as face fines and detention.
 * If you encounter problems in Tibet, the U.S. government has limited ability
   to provide assistance, as the Chinese government does not usually authorize
   U.S. government personnel to travel there, even to provide consular
   assistance to U.S. citizens. 

Dual Nationality: The Chinese government does not recognize dual nationality. If
you are a dual national of the United States and China, the Chinese government
will usually not permit the U.S. Embassy to provide consular assistance to you
unless you entered China on a U.S. passport with a valid Chinese visa.
Regardless of your travel documents, if you are a dual national, or otherwise
have ethnic or historical ties to China, it is possible that Chinese authorities
will assert that you are a Chinese citizen and deny your access to U.S. consular
representatives if you are detained.

Because the Chinese government does not recognize dual citizenship, dual
U.S.-Chinese citizens may face a number of hurdles when seeking public benefits
in China. U.S. citizens who are also citizens of China may experience difficulty
in accessing benefits in China such as enrollment in public schools, treatment
at public hospitals and clinics, or obtaining Chinese identity and citizenship
documents, such as passports. U.S.-Chinese dual citizens must navigate
conflicting aspects of Chinese nationality, which the Chinese government may
inconsistently apply.

If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen or have a possible claim to Chinese
citizenship, and you are traveling to China, inform yourself about Chinese law
and practices relating to determination and loss of Chinese citizenship. Chinese
authorities generally consider a child born in China to at least one Chinese
parent to be a Chinese citizen, even if the child was issued a U.S. passport at
the time of birth. If you have or had a claim to Chinese citizenship and your
child is born in China, prior to departing China with your child, contact the
local Public Security Bureau and/or Entry-Exit Bureau for information on
obtaining a travel document. If you have or had a claim to Chinese citizenship
and your child is born in the United States, please contact the Embassy of the
People’s Republic of China for specific information on the documentation
requirements to bring your child to China.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child
abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

SAFETY AND SECURITY




For most visitors, China remains a very safe country. Petty street crime is the
most common safety concern for U.S. citizens. Training, capability, and
responsiveness of Chinese authorities varies by region and even city. The U.S.
Embassy and Consulates General have no law enforcement authority and may not
represent U.S. citizens in either criminal or civil legal matters. To ensure
your safety and security in China, you should:

 * Take routine safety precautions.
 * Pay attention to surroundings.
 * Report any concerns to the local police.
 * Call “110,” the local equivalent to “911”; however, very few English speakers
   staff this hotline.

Violent crime is not common in China, however:

 * Demonstrations may quickly turn violent.
 * Domestic unrest and terrorism can occur.
 * Business disputes between U.S. citizens and Chinese business partners can
   sometimes result in physical confrontation or kidnapping. Go straight to the
   police if you feel threatened or relocate to a public place.
 * Be alert to criminal schemes, such as:
   * “Tourist Tea” Scams: Young Chinese invite visitors out to tea and leave
     them with an exorbitant bill.
   * Phone Scams: We have received reports that some individuals within China
     have received telephone calls where the callers pose as police officers and
     request a funds transfer to resolve an identity theft or money laundering
     investigation. In these cases, DO NOT WIRE any money. If you receive any
     suspicious calls or requests, contact the local Public Security Bureau
     (PSB) to verify the caller’s identity. 
   * “Black Cabs”: Be cautious when using taxi services, especially at airports.
     Avoid unlicensed “black cabs,” insist that the driver use the meter, and
     get a receipt. Have the name of your destination written in Chinese
     characters and ask the driver to remove the bags from the trunk before you
     get out of the taxi and before you pay.
   * Counterfeit Currency: Counterfeit currency is a significant concern in
     China. Carrying small bills or using exact change, particularly in taxis,
     can help protect you. Use only ATMs at trusted financial institutions.

If you already have been victim of a scam, catalogue as many details as
possible, including names, telephone and bank numbers, and email and IP
addresses; file a police report, and inform the U.S. Embassy or a U.S.
consulate. Please see the Department of State and the FBI pages for information
on scams.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy
or nearest consulate. Remember that local authorities are responsible for
investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

 * Help you find appropriate medical care.
 * Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
 * Contact relatives or friends on your behalf.
 * Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms.
 * Provide a list of local attorneys.
 * Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
 * Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or
   limited medical support in cases of destitution.
 * Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
 * Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Lost or Stolen Passports: If your passport is stolen, you must apply for both a
new passport at the U.S. Embassy or consulate, and a new Chinese visa. File a
police report at the nearest police station right away. You may also be directed
to file a report at the local Exit/Entry Bureau.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the
Embassy or consulate for assistance. Domestic violence in China is rarely
recognized as a crime.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for
equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are
not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or
certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the
field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically
available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to
access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S.
citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our
webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

LOCAL LAWS & SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES




Criminal Penalties: You are subject to Chinese laws. If you violate Chinese
laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Furthermore, some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of
local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and
the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:

 * If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the
   U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate immediately. See our webpage for
   further information.
 * The Chinese must notify a U.S. consular officer within four days; however,
   this does not always occur in a timely manner.
 * A consular officer may be the only authorized visitor during your initial
   detention period. 
 * Bail is rarely granted.
 * Detention may last many months before a trial.
 * The U.S. Embassy or Consulate is unable to represent you in a legal matter.
 * Travelers to China should enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler
   Enrollment Program (STEP) and you may wish to have someone contact the
   Embassy or nearest consulate if you are detained.
 * Please see the section on DUAL NATIONALITY for the limits on consular
   notification and access to dual nationals.

The Chinese legal system can be opaque and the interpretation and enforcement of
local laws arbitrary. The judiciary does not enjoy independence from political
influence. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in China should be aware of
varying levels of scrutiny to which they will be subject from Chinese local law
enforcement and state security. 

Certain provisions of the Criminal Law of the People’s Republic of China – such
as “social order” crimes (Article 293) and crimes involving “endangering state
security” and “state secrets” (Article 102 to 113) – are ill-defined and can be
interpreted by the authorities arbitrarily and situationally. Information that
may be common knowledge in other countries could be considered a “state secret”
in China, and information can be designated a “state secret” retroactively.

Drug and Alcohol Enforcement:

Chinese law enforcement authorities have little tolerance for illegal drugs,
including marijuana. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal
drugs in China are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail
sentences, heavy fines, or the death penalty. Police regularly conduct
unannounced drug tests on people suspected of drug use and have been known to
enter a bar or nightclub and subject all patrons to immediate drug testing.
Police may force you to provide a urine, blood, or hair follicle sample on short
notice. A positive finding, even if the drug was legal elsewhere or consumed
prior to arriving in China, can lead to immediate detention, fines, deportation,
and/or a ban from re-entering China.

China also has strict laws against driving under the influence of alcohol that
can lead to immediate detention on a criminal charge.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:

Assisted Reproductive Technology: In vitro fertilization (IVF) is widely and
legally practiced. Chinese law, however, strictly forbids surrogacy, and
surrogacy contracts will not be considered valid. The use of reproductive
technology for medical research and profit is strictly controlled.

Contracts and Commercial Disputes: Before entering into a commercial or
employment contract in China, have it reviewed by legal counsel both in the
United States and in China. The U.S. Foreign Commercial Service can assist you
in identifying and vetting business contacts and opportunities, but may not
intervene in contract disputes. Many U.S. citizens have reported difficulty
getting their contracts enforced by Chinese courts or being forced out of
profitable joint-ventures without opportunity to secure legal recourse in China.

Counterfeit Goods: Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods. The bootlegs are
illegal in the United States and you may also be breaking local law by
purchasing them.

Cruise Ship Passengers: Click here for safety information and travel advice.

Earthquakes: Earthquakes occur throughout China. Check here for information
about earthquake preparedness.

English/Secondary School Teachers: English teachers in China frequently report
employment disputes which can result in questioning by local authorities,
termination, lost wages, confiscation of passports, forced eviction from
housing, and even threats of violence. Please see the Teaching in China Guide on
the U.S. Embassy's website.

Exit/Travel Bans: Business disputes, court orders to pay a settlement, or
government investigations into both criminal and civil issues may result in an
exit ban which will prohibit your departure from China until the issue is
resolved. Even individuals and their family members who are not directly
involved, or even aware of these proceedings, can be subject to an exit ban.
Additionally, some local businesspeople who feel that they have been wronged by
a foreign business partner may hire "debt collectors” to harass, intimidate, and
sometimes physically detain foreign business partners or family members in hopes
of collecting the debt. The U.S. Embassy or consulate can provide a list of
local attorneys who serve U.S. clients, but otherwise are unable to intervene in
civil cases. Local law enforcement authorities are generally unwilling to become
involved in what they consider private business matters, and may not provide the
individual who has been barred from leaving China with any written notice of the
exit ban.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

 * Faith-Based Travel Information
 * International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
 * Human Rights Report – see country reports
 * Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
 * Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: Same sex marriages are not legally recognized in China and
local authorities will not provide marriage certificates to same-sex couples.
There are no civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination or harassment on the
basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, though homosexuality has been
decriminalized. Prejudices and discrimination still exist in many parts of the
country. There are growing LGBTI communities in some of China’s largest cities
and violence against LGBTI individuals in China is relatively rare.
See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our  Human Rights
Report for further details.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): In January 2017, China implemented a law
regulating the operations of foreign NGOs in China. NGOs and their employees
should ensure they are complying with all relevant statutory requirements,
particularly if working in sensitive areas or fields. Additionally, the Chinese
government announced sanctions on five U.S.-based NGOs in December 2019.

North Korea: Do not travel to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North
Korea) due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S.
nationals. For further information, consult the North Korea Country Information
webpage and the Travel Advisory for North Korea.

Political and Religious Activity: Participating in unauthorized political or
religious activities, including participating in public protests or sending
private electronic messages critical of the government, may result in detention
and Chinese government-imposed restrictions on future travel to China. Although
China’s constitution permits freedom of religious belief, government officials
are increasing pressure on domestic religious activity. The U.S. Mission to
China has observed an increase in the number of U.S. citizens being
interrogated, detained, and/or forced to leave the country in connection with
real or perceived religious proselytization. U.S. citizens have been detained
and/or expelled for distributing religious literature, including Bibles, or
engaging in unauthorized religious meetings. If you bring religious literature
with you, Chinese law dictates that it be a “reasonable amount” for your
personal use. If you attempt to bring larger quantities, the literature will
likely be confiscated and you may be fined, detained, or deported.

Social Insurance: China has a social insurance system to which foreigners who
work in China must contribute. When you sign an employment contract, you must
apply for a social insurance number, and it is important that your employer work
with you to comply with the regulations. Please check the official website for
updated information.

Social Media: Social media accounts are widely monitored in China. Local
authorities may use information they deem critical, controversial, or that might
involve illegal activity against both the poster of the material and the host of
the social media forum under Chinese law. Individuals have also been held
responsible for the content that others place within social media spaces they
control, such as the comments section under a post or within a group chat that
an individual controls.

Special Scrutiny of Foreign Citizens: On occasion, citizens of the United States
visiting or resident in China have been interrogated or detained for reasons
said to be related to “state security.” In such circumstances, you could face
arrest, detention, or an exit ban prohibiting your departure from China for a
prolonged period. Dual U.S.-Chinese nationals and U.S. citizens of Chinese
heritage may be at a higher risk of facing such special scrutiny. Information
about dual nationality can be found on our website.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Surveillance and Monitoring: Security personnel carefully watch foreign visitors
and may place you under surveillance. Hotel rooms (including meeting rooms),
offices, cars, taxis, telephones, Internet usage, digital payments, and fax
machines may be monitored onsite or remotely, and personal possessions in hotel
rooms, including computers, may be searched without your consent or knowledge.
Security personnel have been known to detain and deport U.S. citizens sending
private electronic messages critical of the Chinese government.

Transferring Money to/From China: China’s regulatory environment includes
tightening capital outflow controls that can severely impact one’s ability to
move money out of the country. Wire transfers may only be available to those who
have an active bank account in China. Ask your local China bank location for
more information. The U.S. Department of State may be able to help transfer
funds to a destitute U.S citizen overseas through our office in Washington, D.C.
to a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. More information on this option is
available here.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: U.S. citizens with mobility
disabilities may face challenges while traveling in China. Sidewalks often do
not have curb cuts and many streets can be crossed only via pedestrian bridges
or underpasses accessible by staircase. Assistive technologies for blind people
and those with other vision disabilities are unreliable, and access to elevators
in public buildings can be restricted. In major cities, public restrooms in
places visited by tourists usually have a least one accessible toilet.

Typhoons: The southeast coast of China is subject to strong typhoons and
tropical storms, usually from July through September. For current information,
please consult the Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Honolulu and the National
Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region: Extraordinary security measures are in place
through the region. Authorities may impose curfews and restrictions on short
notice. They also engage in invasive surveillance techniques against
individuals. Expect significant travel delays, avoid gatherings and
demonstrations, always carry ID, and follow the instructions of local
authorities. Travelers with ethnic ties to the region may experience special
restrictions, discrimination, and even arbitrary detention.

HEALTH




Quality of Care: The standards of medical care in China are not equivalent to
those in the United States. Even in private hospitals or public hospitals with
well-equipped wards, English-speaking patients frequently encounter difficulty
due to cultural, language, and regulatory differences. Rural areas have
rudimentary facilities and inadequate staffing. Additionally, Rh-negative blood
may be difficult to obtain; the blood type of the general Asian populace is Rh
positive.

Payment and Insurance: Chinese ambulances are often slow to arrive, and most do
not have sophisticated medical equipment or trained responders. Cash payment for
services is often required prior to treatment, including emergency cases.
Travelers will be asked to post a deposit prior to admission to cover the
expected cost of treatment. Hospitals in major cities may accept credit cards.
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in China maintain lists of
local English-speaking doctors and hospitals.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply
overseas.

Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care
providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for
more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. We strongly
recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medication: If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Embassy of
the People’s Republic of China to ensure the medication is legal in China. Carry
prescription medication in original packaging, along with the prescription. Many
commonly-used U.S. drugs and medications are not available in China, and
counterfeit, low-quality knockoffs are prevalent. If you try to have medications
sent to you from outside China, you may have problems getting them released by
Chinese Customs and/or you may have to pay high customs duties.

Air Quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in many locations. The U.S.
Embassy in Beijing and the U.S. Consulates in Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and
Shenyang make air quality data available to the U.S. citizen community.
The Chinese Ministry of Environmental Protection provides its own air quality
data for cities throughout China.

Most roads and towns in Tibet, Qinghai, parts of Xinjiang, and western Sichuan
are situated at altitudes over 10,000 feet. Take appropriate precautions to
prepare for and be alert to altitude sickness.

Disease: The following diseases are prevalent:

 * influenza
 * typhoid
 * measles
 * hepatitis A
 * hepatitis B
 * tuberculosis

Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention.

For further health information:

 * World Health Organization
 * U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

TRAVEL AND TRANSPORTATION




Road Conditions and Safety: Traffic safety is generally poor and driving can be
dangerous, though rules, regulations, and conditions vary greatly throughout
China.

Traffic can be chaotic and largely unregulated and the rate of accidents,
including fatal accidents, is among the highest in the world. Motorcycle and
bicycle accidents are frequent and often deadly. Pedestrians do not have the
right of way, and you should show extreme caution when walking in traffic, even
in marked crosswalks. Child safety seats are not widely available.

Traffic Laws:

 * You may not drive in China using a U.S. or international driver’s license. 
 * You can apply for a Chinese driver’s license if you have a resident permit.
 * If you are involved in a traffic accident, stay calm and call and wait for
   the police.
 * If there are no injuries and damage is minimal, the parties often come to
   agreement on the spot.
 * Unresolved disputes are handled by the courts.
 * In cases involving injuries, the driver determined at fault is responsible
   for the injured person’s medical costs. Sometimes, the police may hold your
   passport until the other parties are satisfied with the compensation they
   receive.
 * Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, visit
   China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and national authority responsible
   for road safety.

Public Transportation: Public transportation, including subways, trains, and
buses, generally has a positive safety record and is widely available in major
cities, although individuals on crowded buses and subways are often targeted by
pick-pockets.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has
assessed the government of China’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in
compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety
standards for oversight of China’s air carrier operations. Further information
may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to China should also check for U.S.
maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast
Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings.


FACT SHEET

Please see Fact Sheet for this country/area.


FOR ADDITIONAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

 * Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security
   messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
 * Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States
   and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to
   8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal
   holidays).
 * See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide
   Caution and Travel Advisories.
 * Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
 * See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.


INTERNATIONAL PARENTAL CHILD ABDUCTION

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in China. For
additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child
Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.

Last Updated: December 31, 2019


TRAVEL ADVISORY LEVELS




INFORMATION FOR VACCINATED TRAVELERS

The CDC's latest guidance on international travel for vaccinated people can be
found here.


ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS

U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone
+(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency
+(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax
+(86)(10) 8531-3300
Email
BeijingACS@state.gov
Website
U.S. Embassy Beijing


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