travel to china with british passport

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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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Can I travel to China? Travel rules from the UK explained 

By Connor Sturges

In December 2019, a cluster of Chinese citizens in Wuhan reported mysterious flu-like symptoms in what became the start of a pandemic that would change the world as we knew it. Countries closed their borders and leading scientists embarked on a mission to create effective vaccines, leading many travellers to rediscover the wonders on their doorsteps and the concept of the great British staycation .

Fast forward to January 2023, and China is welcoming tourists once again. Hundreds of millions of Chinese citizens will be hoping to travel domestically to join family ahead of Chinese New Year and see in the Year of the Rabbit, while curious international travellers are adding the country to their bucket lists once again for the year ahead.

These are the entry requirements, and the UK government's advice, as of Monday 9 January 2023.

Can I travel to China from the UK, and back again?

Yes, with some restrictions. After almost three years of Covid stalling China’s tourism industry, Thursday 5 January 2023 marked the opening of China’s borders to the world once again. However, as of Monday 9 January 2023, China remains in the midst of a Covid surge, meaning strict rules are in place for travellers wishing to visit the country.

What are the entry requirements for China?

Since international flights to China resumed on Thursday 5 January 2023, all travellers are required to take a pre-departure PCR Covid test in the 48 hours prior to travel. 

Once confirmed, a negative PCR test result can be submitted by filling in a health declaration form on the  China customs website . Negative results can also be submitted on the China customs app or a registered WeChat account. 

Travellers who display symptoms of fever on arrival in China may be asked to take a further antigen test. Self-quarantine will be imposed in the event of a positive test result and mild symptoms, while travellers can be sent to medical institutions for treatment if symptoms are more severe.

The UK government website recommends that all travellers pack a supply of medication to treat flu-like symptoms. It is also recommended that accommodation is stocked with additional food, water and medical supplies in case you are mandated to isolate.

What are the rules on returning to the UK from China?

All travellers aged 12 and over must obtain a negative pre-departure Covid test result no more than two days prior to travelling back from mainland China to the UK. Results are checked by airlines and Border Force officials in the UK. These rules currently apply to travellers on direct and indirect flights, and those arriving in England as a final destination plus anyone transiting through England.

Test results can be provided in the form of a printed document, an email, or text message, and must contain the following information:

• A full name that matches the name on travel documents
• Date of birth or age
• Result of the test
• Date the test sample was collected or received by the test provider
• Name of the test provider and their contact details
• Confirmation of the type of test taken, which can be a lateral flow or PCR

NHS-provided tests cannot be used as pre-departure tests. In addition to the required pre-departure tests when returning from mainland China, travellers arriving at London Heathrow Airport may be asked to undertake a voluntary test on arrival, as part of the UK government’s monitoring of potential new variants.

Are there any other entry requirements for travel to China?

According to the latest UK government website, travellers wishing to visit China on a British Citizen passport can do so by:

• Obtaining an “Invitation Letter” or “Verification Confirmation of Invitation” issued by a provincial foreign affairs office or department of commerce (M or F visa)
• Obtaining a “Notification Letter of Foreigners Work Permit” (Z visa)
• Visiting a family member with a Z, M, or F visa
• Intending to visit a family member who is a Chinese citizen or who holds a Chinese permanent residence permit
• Qualifying for a high-level talent (R) visa
• Qualifying for a transport crew (C) visa

Visa applications must be made, in person, at a Visa Application Centre. Note that biometric data (scanned fingerprints) has to be provided as part of the application process. Chinese Visa Application Centres in London , Manchester and Edinburgh are operating, but with limited opening hours. The Belfast centre remains closed.

More details, including the process for submitting forms for those still eligible, can be found on the Chinese Embassy website.

For more information and updated rules, visit the   UK government website before travelling. We also recommend ensuring you have valid   travel insurance with Covid cover before taking any trips.

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China Entry and Exit Requirements and Procedures 2024

Until November 30th, 2024 , ordinary passport holders of France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Malaysia can enjoy a 15-day visa-free entry to China.  

You can start planning your trip to China now! We will provide you with a flexible, tailor-made private tour of China . 

China has opened its borders to tourists from March 15, 2023. If you are planning to visit China, it's important to understand the entry and exit requirements and procedures that apply to international travelers.

Now, inbound and outbound travelers no longer need to complete the China Health Declaration Form and don't need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result, either.

China Entry Requirements

To enter China, you must have a valid passport and a China visa unless you are eligible for a visa-free entry or a visa-on-arrival.

Note: Though you are not required to complete the China Health Declaration Card and provide the COVID-19 test result before entering China Mainland, you still need to inform the customs and cooperate for health checks if you have symptoms like fever, cough, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, or if you've been diagnosed with a contagious disease.

Customs Procedures

China's custom channels are divided into two types: the red channel (also called the tax channel) and the green channel (also called a free channel).

Red Channel

Foreign travelers usually enter China through the red channel. They must declare first to customs after filling in the passenger baggage declaration form and can enter after the registration at customs.

The completed customs declaration form must be presented again when leaving China. The form must be filled in truthfully and accurately, and those who provide false information or fail to declare items will be subject to legal action by customs once identified.

The items exceeding the maximum limit listed in the document table should be processed according to other relevant provisions.

Green Channel

Foreign personnel who have been granted a diplomatic visa-passport or courtesy visa-passport by the Chinese authorities or granted free-of-examination courtesy can choose the green channel. But they have to show their credentials to the customs and the declaration document table filled according to the requirements.

Hygiene Quarantine Requirements for Entering China

Foreigners entering China must truthfully fill in health declaration forms as requested by border quarantine departments. Failure to report infectious diseases may result in punishment for evading quarantine and prevention from entering China upon identification. Those who have entered China without reporting an infectious disease may be ordered to leave in advance.

Infectious patients from affected areas must present a valid certificate of immunization-related diseases (commonly known as the "yellow book"). If they do not have a valid certificate, the Frontier Health and Quarantine infected organs will run a test for six days from the day they leave the infected environment.

Commodities from areas that may have been contaminated by infectious diseases or become media articles of epidemic diseases are subject to health and sanitation inspection and quarantine treatment.

People Forbidden from entering China

The following individuals are not allowed to enter China:

A. Those who have been deported from China are under the regulated age.

B. Those who are considered possible terrorists or may undertake violence and subversive activities after entering.

C. Those who are suspected of possible smuggling, drug trafficking, and prostitution activities.

D. Those who have mental illnesses or have leprosy, AIDS, venereal diseases, open tuberculosis, and other infectious diseases.

E. Those who cannot afford what is needed in China.

F. Those who are considered to possibly engage in activities that endanger the security and interests of China after entering.

The frontier checkpoint has the right to prevent the following individuals from entering:

A. Those who have no valid passports, certificates, or visas.

B. Those who have forged, defaced, or other people's passports or certificates.

C. Those who refuse to be inspected.

D. Those who are forbidden to enter by the Ministry of Public Security and the National Security Ministry.

Exiting China

Foreign tourists must leave China within the allowed time limit of their visa from the allocated port. They must present effective passports or other effective certificates to the port border checkpoint.

People Forbidden to Leave China

A. Defendants in a criminal case or criminal suspects identified by the people's procuratorates, public security organs, or court.

B. Individuals are not allowed to leave the country due to unsettled civil cases according to the People's Court notice.

C. Others whose behaviors have violated China's laws and have been identified by competent authorities as needing pursuit.

The border authorities have the right to prevent the following individuals from leaving China:

A. Those who hold invalid certificates.

B. Those who have forged, defaced, or other people's passports or certificates.

C. Those who refuse to be inspected.

More Articles on How to Enter China

• How to Apply for a Visa to China
• Shanghai 144 Hours Visa-free Transit

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*To  apply for the emergency humanitarian visa for the purpose of arranging funeral matters or visiting a family member in critical medical conditions in China, applicants shall submit the identity document of the deceased or critically ill patient (such as a Chinese identity card or a foreign passport), a death certificate or a medical certificate of the patient issued by the hospital, proof of kinship, and other necessary documents as required.

III.  Application Procedures:

To apply for the above visas, applicants are required to fill in the online application form and make an appointment on the  Chinese Visa Application Service Centre  (CVASC) website before submitting applications in person on the date of the appointment and having their  ten fingers ’ fingerprints collected. Children under the age of 14 and adults above the age of 70 are not required to go to the  CVASC  for such biometric information collection. Please contact the CVASC for specific procedures, visa application requirements, processing time and fees.

IV.  Diplomatic, service or courtesy visa applicants shall also submit applications at the CVASC. The applicants are not required to pre-book time slots, but shall complete and print out the online application forms in advance.

V.  Foreign nationals who apply for visas for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region or the Macao Special Administrative Region can submit applications to the  consular section of the Chinese Embassy/Consulates in the UK during  business hours with no need for pre-booked appointments.

VI.  Visa applications for visiting purposes which are not included above will not be accepted at the moment.

VII.  Holder of a valid Chinese residence permit, or valid permanent documents and APEC Business Travel Cards ( excluding Virtual ABTC) does not need to apply for a new visa for entry into China .

Could UK visitors be granted visa-free entry to China?

China recently granted visa-free entry to citizens of six countries. but why was the uk left off the list.

On 24 November 2023, China announced a new visa-free entry policy for ordinary passport holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia, effective from 1 December 2023 to 30 November 2024. This policy allows for business and tourism for up to 15 days per entry.

The timing of this announcement and the countries selected have prompted speculation. Apart from Malaysia, which on 26 November announced that Chinese tourists could visit the country visa-free for 30 days, none of the other countries have reciprocal visa-free agreements in place for Chinese visitors.

Nevertheless, the announcement roughly coincided with a meeting between China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his French counterpart Catherine Colonna, and comes ahead of a scheduled EU-China Summit in early December. These events aim to improve relations and facilitate travel for foreign investors from European countries, aligning with China’s broader strategy to attract investors and strengthen economic ties in the face of an economic slowdown and a decrease in foreign investment.

The move is part of the gradual softening of China’s entry requirements following the lifting of its Covid-era restrictions in early 2023. China resumed its pre-Covid visa and entry policies in March 2023, including the 144-hour visa-free transit policy , which allows foreign travellers transiting through the country to enjoy a six-day stay in certain Chinese cities without a visa. Later, in September 2023, the country rolled out simplifications to its visa application form, reducing the amount of information related to educational background, family members, and travel history applicants need to provide.

It is hoped that this latest move will serve as a trial for wider visa-free entry policies, and that more countries will be added to the exemption in the future.

There has been no indication of if or when UK visitors can expect the same visa-free entry, and the British government has made no specific comment on the announcement. Relations between the UK and China have cooled somewhat in recent years, which could well have pushed the UK further down the list of countries likely to be granted visa-free travel.

Although some have speculated that David Cameron ’s surprise return to government could signify the resumption of a more gung-ho attitude to cooperation with China, at a recent Global Investment Summit at Hampton Court Palace, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasised that the UK’s ties with China would not return to the so-called ‘Golden Era’, saying that China had changed, and “it’s right that [the UK’s] strategy evolves to take account of that.” Nevertheless, the UK has still been taking steps to strengthen its economic and trade relationship with China, especially following former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly ’s visit to China in August 2023. “The only way to influence China is to engage with China,” Mr Cleverly stressed in a video shared on the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s (FCDO) social channels at the time. “That is why I’m here in Beijing. That is why I am meeting with Chinese ministers. That is why diplomacy is so incredibly important.”

In conclusion, while the UK is not included in China’s current visa-free policy, the situation remains dynamic. As recently as October 2023, China removed the requirement to make an appointment to apply for a visa at the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre and will now allow walk-ins. The ongoing developments in international relations and China’s broader strategy of economic integration and facilitation of global travel could potentially lead to future changes in visa policies for UK travellers. For now, business and other travellers from the UK must adhere to the existing visa application procedures.

Robynne Tindall

Robynne Tindall is FOCUS's Editorial Manager

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How to Visit China Without a Visa 2024 (Updated)

From December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Singapore, and Malaysia can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa for travel, business, transit, or visiting friends and family.

Starting March 14th, travelers from Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland can also enjoy this visa-free entry.

China's visa-free policies allow nationals of certain countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand to travel to China for stays ranging from 24 hours to 180 days without obtaining a visa if certain requirements are met.

If you want to plan a visa-free trip to China, just contact us.

Content Preview

• 1. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policies
• 2. 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policies
• 3. 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policies

4. Visa-Free Policy in Hong Kong and Macau

5. 6-day pearl river delta visa exemptions, 6. 6-day visa exemption for asean tour groups to guilin, 7. 15-day visa-free policy for singaporean & bruneian citizens, 8. shanghai 15-day visa-free policy for cruise groups, 9. hainan 30-day visa-free access, 10. apec business travel card holders, 11. holders of aliens' residence permits, 1. 144-hour visa-free transit policies: beijing, shanghai, guangdong....

Valid for : Travelers from 53 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand

Cities that can be visited : Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Qinhuangdao; Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing; Shenyang, Dalian, Qingdao; Chengdu; Xiamen, Kunming; Wuhan; Guangdong; Chongqing; Xi'an; and Ningbo.

One visa-free zone per transit : You can only visit the cities and their surrounding area covered by one policy zone before international transit, such as Shanghai and its surrounding area including Hangzhou and Suzhou or Beijing and its surrounding area including Tianjin. You can't travel from one visa-free zone to another: for example, Beijing to Shanghai visa-free travel is not allowed.

How to apply : You just need to apply for a temporary entry permit at your entry airport.

Key Requirement : You will need to be transiting via China to a third region or country. Find out more requirements on 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit policy .

Will My Route Qualify for China 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

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.

For example, with a New York – Beijing (transit) – Frankfurt itinerary, you can visit Beijing visa-free, staying for up to 6 days.

An "essential" Beijing trip takes about 3–4 days, including its must-sees like the Forbidden City and Great Wall. Check out our 4-Day Beijing Private Tour .

New York – Beijing – New York doesn't meet the visa-free transit policy requirements, because the policy requires that you must transit from China to a third region or country.

However, you can take advantage of the convenience of Hong Kong and Macau, which are considered as separate regions in the policy. The itinerary New York – Beijing – Hong Kong – New York or New York – Hong Kong – Beijing – New York is doable visa-free.

Transiting in e.g. Hong Kong, you could even access two visa-free zones and return home, e.g. USA–Beijing–HK–Shanghai–USA visa-free!

Just contact us to plan a visa-free tour. We have been providing visa-free tour services for many clients since the introduction of such policies. For any questions/problems throughout your trip, our travel consultants provide 24/7 support.

Here are some appealing China tours that you can experience with the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit :

• 5-Day 5-Day Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou Bullet Train Tour
• 4-Day Shanghai, Hangzhou, Water Town Culture Tour
• 4-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Night Tour
• 3-Day Chengdu Giant Panda, Giant Buddha, and Ancient Town Tour

2. 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy: Guilin, Harbin, Changsha

Valid for : passport holders from 51 countries or regions, including the USA, the UK, Singapore, Canada, Australia, and Germany

Cities that can be visited : Guilin, Harbin, and Changsha

How to apply : You just need to apply for a temporary entry permit at the entry airport.

The transit requirement : You need to be going via China to a third region or country. Click to learn more about 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit .

Recommended Visa-Free Tours

• 3-Day Essence of Guilin
• 1-Day Harbin Ice and Snow Fairyland Tour

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

3. The 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

Valid for : Almost all foreign tourists

Cities that can be visited : This policy applies to most major cities in China with an international airport, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, and Tianjin.

How to apply : You just need to apply for a temporary entry permit at the airport.

Key requirement : You need to be going via China to a third region or country.

• 1-Day Beijing Highlights Tour
• 1-Day Shanghai Layover Tour

For most visitors, a visa is not required if traveling to Hong Kong and/or Macau.

Hong Kong : The former colony continues its liberal entry policies established by the British government. Citizens of about 160 countries can obtain visa-free entry for durations that range from 180 days to 7 days. For more detailed information, see Hong Kong's visa policy .

Macau : This territory's policies are more restrictive than those of Hong Kong. British nationals can stay for 6 months. Citizens of about 38 countries including those of the EU, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, and South Korea can stay for 90 days. For more, see Macau's visa policy .

For even greater travel opportunities, you can also plan a visa-free trip to the Chinese Mainland from Hong Kong or Macau by taking advantage of the visa-free policies mentioned earlier or the one below.

Recommended Visa-Free Tours from Hong Kong/Macau

• 5-Day Yangtze River Delta Bullet Train Tour
• 4-Day Beijing Private Tour

Just contact us to plan a trip from Hong Kong/Macau.

Valid for : international visitors traveling from Hong Kong and/or Macau

Cities that can be visited : those of the conurbation surrounding the Pearl River Delta including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Zhaoqing, Huizhou, and Shantou.

How to apply : You will need to go with a registered travel agency, such as ours. The permitted tour group size ranges from three to 40 people including the guide.

• 4-Day Essence of Guangzhou and Shenzhen Tour
• 3-Day Kaiping and Foshan Tour

Valid for : ASEAN member citizens, including those of Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines.

City that can be visited : Guilin

How to apply : You will need to join a group tour with a registered travel agency.

Recommended Tours

• 5-Day Guilin Off-the-Beaten-Path Tour
• 6-Day Guilin, Longsheng, & Yangshuo Relaxation
• 4-Day Guilin Scenic and Ethnic Discovery

Starting from July 26, Singaporean & Bruneian citizens holding ordinary passports can enjoy a 15-day visa-free policy for visiting China for business, tourism, family visit, and transit purposes.

• 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour
• 8-Day Xinjiang Tour with Ili (Best for Summer)
• 8-Day North Xinjiang Tour with Kanas (Best for Autumn and Winter)

Valid for : Foreign tourist groups entering China via a Shanghai cruise

Cities that can be visited : You are not only allowed to visit Shanghai but also many other coastal municipalities (Beijing and Tianjin) and provinces (Liaoning, Hebei, Shandong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hainan).

Requirements : 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).

Valid for : Ordinary passport holders from 59 countries including the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Cities that can be visited : Hainan Island

Requirements : Groups and individual tourists must book their tour through an accredited travel agency that's approved by China's National Travel Administration and registered in Hainan Province.

Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card holders 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.

No visa is required for those who hold aliens' permanent residence certificates issued by the People's Republic of China Public Security Bureau (PSB).

Foreigners visiting China for study, employment, or working as resident correspondents must apply for Aliens' Residence Permits with the PSB within a month of arrival in China.

Popular Visa-Free Tours

If you want to enjoy a hassle-free tour that maximizes limited time in China, just contact us . The following itineraries, and any other ideas you may have, can be customized by us to fit your length of stay and other needs:

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Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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China visa and passport requirements.

To enter China, a passport with a validity of at least six months is required by all nationals referred to in the chart above.   To enter Hong Kong, a passport with a validity of at least six months is required by all nationals referred to in the chart above.  

Passport Note

Foreign nationals are advised to carry their passports at all times particularly around times of heightened security such as sporting events.

Those wishing to visit Tibet are strongly advised to join a travel group. Individual travellers need a Tibet Travel Permit issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Applicants also need to show their Chinese visa.

Visas are required by all nationals referred to in the chart above to enter China, except:   • All nationals above when visiting Hong Kong or Macau only, in which case visas are not required for varying lengths of stay.   • The following nationals as long as their purpose of travel is for tourism, meeting relatives and friends, conducting business or for transit. Also, the length of stay must not exceed 30 days (if not otherwise indicated): Armenia, (90 days), Barbados, Belarus (90 days), Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days), Dominica, Ecuador, Fiji, Grenada, Maldives, Mauritius (60 days), Qatar, San Marino (90 days), Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Suriname, Thailand, Tonga and United Arab Emirates.   • The following nationals as long as their purpose of travel is for tourism, meeting relatives and friends, conducting business or for stopover stays. Also, the length of stay must not exceed 15 days.   This provision is valid in the period from December 1, 2023 to November 30, 2024:   [1] Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands and Spain.   This provision is valid in the period from March 14, 2024 to November 30, 2024:   [2] Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland (Rep.), Luxembourg and Switzerland.   • Nationals of Australia, Canada, UK, USA, all EU countries, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine and of some other countries visiting Hainan Province only as part of an approved, organised tourist group for stays of up to 30 days.   

When making the visa application you will need to submit a detailed itinerary of all places you plan to visit and all hotel bookings (including addresses and phone numbers and dates of arrival and departure).

Business travellers are required to provide an official invitation from the company or institution in China when applying for a visa.

Visitors must register with the local Chinese Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival.

Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements.

Types and Cost

How much you would pay for a visa to China depends on your nationality.   If you're applying for a visa to China from the UK, the following fees apply: • British : £130 for regular service, £161 for express service. £194 for 5-year regular service, £225 for 5-year expreaa service. • American : £179 for regular service, for £210 for express service for 6-month multi-entry. • Canadian : £110 for 5-year regular service, for £141 for 5-year express service. • Other nationalities : The cost is £87 (regular) and £118 (express) for a 3-month single entry; £98 (regular) and £129 (express) for 6-month double entry; £109 (regular) and £140 (express) for 6-month multi-entry; and £130 (regular) and £161 (express) for 12-month multi-entry.   If you're applying for a visa to China from the USA, the following fees apply: • American : USD$140 for single and multiple-entry (regular service).

Single-entry visas are normally valid for three months, double-entry for six months, and multiple-entry either six months, 12 months, 24 months, 5 years and above (for some countries it can reach up to 10 years).

Transit visa exemptions allow eligible foreign travellers a visa-free visit for 24, 72, or 144 hours. As of 2023, nationals from 54 countries can visit certain parts of China without a visa for up to 144 hours (six days) if you're transiting through one of the following 19 cities: Beijing, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Dalian, Guangzhou, Guilin, Hangzhou, Harbin, Kunming, Nanjing, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Wuhan, Xiamen, or Xi’an. The key point is you must depart China within 144 hours (six days) for another international destination.

Example 1: if you are flying from New York to Beijing and onwards to Singapore within 144 hours (six days), you can visit Beijing without a visa.

Example 2: if you are flying from London to Shanghai and back to London after five days, you must apply for a visa as you do not transit in China.

Application to

Consulate (or consular section at embassy). Many consulates (including those in the UK) issue visas through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre ( www.visaforchina.org ) rather than directly through the consulate.

Working days

Visa applications for China should be made one month in advance of your planned date of entry.

The express service requires three days, and the regular service takes four days.

Postal applications are usually processed and returned within 10 working days if all the documentation is in good order.

Extension of stay

Generally speaking, it isn’t possible to renew or extend a China visa once it has been issued. However, it is possible to apply for a visa extension within China.

Visa extensions must be applied for at least seven days before your visa expires at the Public Security Bureau (PBS) Exit or Entry Administration office and typically last for up to 30 days.

Applications for an extension of stay in Hong Kong can be made online on the website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department . 

Entry with pets

All pets must have an ISO compliant microchip and a rabies vaccination administered between 30 days and 12 months prior to arrival in China. As of May 2019, pets not from the following countries can avoid quarantine if they are microchipped, vaccinated twice for rabies, have a rabies titer test and the sample is processed at a lab approved by the General Administration of Customs:

Australia, Cyprus, Fiji, French Polynesia, Guam, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Jamaica, Japan, Liechtenstein, Macao, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

Failure to meet these requirements will result in a 30-day quarantine.

Embassies and tourist offices

British embassy in china.

Mon-Fri 0830-1200 and 1330-1700.

Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the USA

Mon-Fri 0900-1730; Mon-Fri 0930-1230 and 1330-1500 (visa section).

Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the UK

Mon-Fri 0900-1200 and 1400-1700.

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• Help centre
• Travel advice

China travel advice

On this page:

China travel alerts

Avoidance of russian airspace.

Last updated: Tuesday 3 rd October 2023 8:47am (UK Time)

Please check the travel advice for all countries in your itinerary .

Entry requirements

Travel bans.

Ahead of your flight to Shanghai, you are no longer required to take a PCR or Antigen Test within 48 hours of travel.

From 1st November 2023, it will no longer   be a mandatory requirement to fill out an online health declaration form before arrival in Shanghai. You should still complete the  online health declaration form  if you have any symptoms of Covid-19 or other infectious diseases.

Upon arrival, you will no longer be required to quarantine. If you display any Covid-19 symptoms upon arrival you may be asked to take an antigen Covid-19 test, any customer who tests positive from this test will either be advised to self-quarantine or seek treatment from a medical institution.

Non-nationals still require a visa to enter mainland China

If you need a Chinese visa, we can help. We've partnered with VisaCentral, the global visa and passport experts. They can apply on your behalf for a fee. And if you're a Flying Club member, you'll also earn two points for every £1 you spend.

Apply for your visa now

You can also apply for your visa through the Chinese Embassy in London:

Chinese Embassy

Tel: 020 7299 4049

Opening hours Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 12:00; 14:00 - 17:00

For fully vaccinated travellers

Pre-departure tests.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when you enter China.

China's entry requirements differ, depending on your nationality and the reason for your visit. If you're not a Chinese national, you will usually need a visa to enter the country, which you should get before you travel

If you're staying for less than 6 days, you may not need a visa.

For more information and advice, contact the  Chinese Embassy.

Apply for a Chinese visa

If you need a Chinese visa, we can help. We've partnered with VisaCentral, the global visa and passport experts. They can apply on your behalf for a fee. And if you're a Flying Club member, you'll also earn two miles for every £1 you spend.

Tel:  020 7299 4049

Opening hours  Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 12:00; 14:00 - 17:00

Visa exemptions for shorter visits

If you're due to leave China to travel to another country within 6 days of your arrival, you might not need a visa. You'll be allowed to stay within the administrative precincts of Shanghai Municipality, Jiangsu Province and Zhejiang Province for up to 144 hours.

On arrival in China, you'll need to show valid onward travel documents to the immigration officer, confirming your planned departure within this time period.

You need to be a resident of one of the following countries to be eligible for an exemption:

Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Mexico, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, Slovak, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Republic of Korea, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America

Find out more from the  Chinese Embassy.

Information for UK passport holders

If you are a UK passport holder visiting China, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your visa application. If you have less than 6 months’ validity on your passport, but still have a valid visa, you should be able to enter China for the duration of that visa.

This guidance is for UK passport holders only.  Passengers from other countries  should check with the necessary Government department in their country of residence for travel information.

Foreign visitors aged between 14 and 70 will have bio-information such as fingerprints collected upon arrival

For non vaccinated travellers

From 08 January China will open its borders to foreign travellers.

It’s now your personal choice whether to wear a facemask onboard, and they’re available for anyone wishing to wear one during the flight. Face masks are reccommended but not required in the terminal in Shanghai, and health packs containing masks will be handed out at the gate at London Heathrow.

Shanghai Airport guide

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

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Useful Guide of Passport - Application, Renewal and for China Travel Tips

Passport is a kind of document certifying identity and nationality for the international travel. Usually issued by a country's government, it contains the data & photo page with holder's name, place and date of birth, photograph, signature, and other identifying information, and many blank visa pages.

There are different kinds of passports attesting to status in different colored cover, such as Diplomatic Passport, Official (Service)Passport, Ordinary Passport. For most common tourists, an Ordinary Passport (also called Regular Passport ) is needed for individuals to travel abroad, like to China. The validity is mostly between 5 to 10 years . In a very few countries, you may apply for a Family Passport if you travel with your family in most times. Recent years, lots of countries start to issue Biometric Passport to their citizens.

Passport Application - How to Get A Passport

Apply for your passport several months in advance before your trip.

Detailed application procedures differ by countries, but all applicants, adults or children in each country, normally have to finish required application procedures. The whole application takes little time and easy to handle, but you may wait for a couple of weeks (vary in different countries) to get your passport with receipt. If you want to get passport quickly, you can use expedited service , pay extra money to speed up the issuing process. Please consult from the government whether Emergency Passport/Travel Document is available.

First-time Passport Application

In most countries, applying a passport is quite simple. Read the official instruction carefully is the NO.1 rule. You only need to complete an application form (online or offline paper form), prepare supporting documents, photo, pay relevant fees. Submit in person to the office and wait for a certain period of time to get your issued passport.

◆ Where to Get A Passport: in your home country or from the overseas nearest embassy or consulate missions of your country.

◆ How to Apply for A Passport: fill out the application form → prepare all required personal documents → find an acceptance site on local government website → make an online passport appointment if needed → arrive and submit all original & copies → pay passport application fees → pick up your passport

Tips: 1.) Some countries may request interview . 2.) Walking-in Service is not accepted in US, you must make appointment and visit the office earlier than the reserved time. Also, certain applicants can apply US Passport by post.

US Passport Application Online

American Passport

Documents Needed for Passport Application

1. Completed Appropriate Application Form

You may fill out online application form on official website, or print the form (PDF), or get a paper form from government office to write by hand. Your private information like the full name, gender, date of birth, etc., must be given accurately and truthfully.

2. Original Proof of Citizenship , Government-Issued Photo ID Document, Other Required Items and Their Front & Back Copies

3. Color Passport Photo

The photo policy is also different in every country , and infants may get exceptions. Normally, whether a digital or printed paper one, the photo should be clean and color, taken in last 6 months against a white or plain background, no glasses, hat, any objects, no “red eyes”.

Your application may be denied or delayed if the passport is not qualified. Therefore, check detailed size, quality requirements of digital & printed photo on official website before taking the photo.

4. Passport Fee Payment

US Passport Application Form

How Much it Cost to Get A Passport

Passport fees depends on many factors and the amount is charged differently in each nation. So is the accepted payment. Usually, the application cost for adult, children, at home country or outside embassy are charged not the same.

Take US citizen applying Passport Book as example:

* Adult First-Time Applicants : $110 (Application Fee) + $35 (Execution/Acceptance Fee)

* Child Applicants (Under 16): $80 (Application Fee) + $35 (Execution/Acceptance Fee)

How Long to Get A Passport?

The processing time vary from per situation and may wait longer during peal seasons. Below is the typical time for US passport application:

Regular service: about 6-8 weeks (by mail/in person)

Expedited service: about 2-3 weeks (by mail or in person)

Expedited service at agency location - 8 business days.

Note: if you travel with kids aboard, you may check more details about the child or infant passports application in your country.

Passport Renewal/New Passport Application - How to Renew A Passport

You need to renew your passport or apply a new one before your next travel or for current travel, if you meet one of the following cases: 1.) the validity will expire soon; 2.) no more blank visa pages left; 3.) passport is lost or stolen ; 4.) change of personal information, like name, etc. 5.) passport is damaged, or other cases for proper reasons.

Where to Renew Passport: passport unity of government in your home country or overseas embassy or consulate.

How to Renew Passport: finish the renew application form (online form or printed form) → prepare passport photo or take a photo on site → get ready your most recent passport if requires → prepare other related documents, like name change certification, etc → find the nearest acceptance facility or regional agency → make an online appointment → visit the office, submit all required materials in person → pay passport renewal fee → wait and collect your new passport.

When passport holders apply for the passport renewal, the old passport is required to surrender for invalidation. While in some circumstances, the expired passport is not required to be surrendered or invalidated, if it contains an unexpired visa , for instance.

The passport renewal in some countries has some specific rules of age and length of expired date, like America. The U.S. citizens with the age of 16+, have a valid passport in their possession, can enjoy the right to renew their passport. However, if your passport has expired more than 15 years ago, damaged, lost or stolen, issued in previous name, you need to apply a New Passport Application in person.

Warm Tips: Renew your passport several months before the it expires. Check the expiration date because some countries requires certain remaining validity, like at least 6 months is needed for applying a China Visa.

Old Expired Passport Can't Be Used for International Travel

Infant Passport Inside

Travel China with Passport

If you are applying a regular China Visa to mainland China, Hong Kong , Macau , for tour, business, study or other purposes, a passport with a minimum of 6 months' validity and at least 2 blank visa pages are required for all applicants. When traveling in China, you have to visit cities together with passport & the obtained visa on it, which are still needed all the time if you hold Tibet Travel Permit to tour in Tibet. Another situation is, a passport shall be valid for at least 3 months if you plan to apply Visa-Free Transit in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen or other cities in mainland China.

Visit China with Passport Only (Visa Free)

● Situation 1 - For Citizens of Singapore, Japan and Brunei

Ralated Reading: China Visa Free Policy

● Situation 2 - For Visit to Hong Kong or Macau

Under the one country, two systems policy, Hong Kong and Macau, as the two special zones of China, have the visa-free policy for citizens of lots of foreign countries, including America, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, India, and most European countries. It means the eligible visitors are allowed to enter HK, Macau, just taking a valid original passport, and stay visa free for a period range from 7 to 180 days. However, the entry purpose is only valid for tourism or business-related activities.

Note: Stay for other purposes or beyond the permitted duration, you must apply for a Visa for Hong Kong, or Macau. For further travel to mainland China, a China Visa is needed.

Useful Links: Hong Kong SAR Visa | Macau SAR Visa

Recommended Tours:

- 1 Day Hong Kong Culture Tour with A Savory of Victoria Harbor

- 2 Days Hong Kong & Macau Highlights Tour

- 3 Days Hong Kong In-depth Tour with Escorted Walking Experience

● Situation 3 - For International Transit Passengers

If you come form appointed 53 countries, will travel to a third country (region) and make a short stop in certain cities in China, there are 72-Hour and 144-Hour Visa-free Transit Policy you can take advantage of. Once approved by border immigration, you may enjoy a transit visa exemption when having layover in Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Guilin, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Kunming, Hangzhou, Shenzhen, Xiamen, etc.

Useful Links: 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit | 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit

144-Hour Visa-Free Countries List | China Visa-Free Layover Tours

Singapore, Brunei and Japanese Passports

Uk Passport Holders can Visit Hong Kong and Macau Without Visa

Stunning Panoramic View of Hong Kong from the Peak

Visit China with Mainland Travel Permit (for HK, Macau Residents)

Hong Kong and Macau, as the above mentioned, still keep their own immigration control systems in China, so traveling to mainland China from Hong Kong or Macau is technically not international. Naturally, passport is not used to travel between Hong Kong, Macau and mainland China, instead using other document, namely, the Mainland Travel Permit (some calls Home Return Permit or Home Visit Permit ).

If you are the permanent residents of the two special regions, please make online application, get the Home Return Permit to visit mainland Chinese cities freely.

Mainland Travel Permit

Passport for Traveling in China

Passport is not only used for your entry of China, but also frequently used in your tour itineraries in China and other travel-related services. You original passport will be used for booking your flights, train tickets, cruise tickets and for hotel . Make paper and digital copies (including passport & visa pages ) for any contingency. Therefore, please take care of your passport well during your China travel.

Note:  1.) For multiple nationalities tourists, your identity in whole China travel should stay the same with your nationality of entering China. 2.) If you had a renewed passport , please inform us immediately when you get it, because booked flight, train ticket shall be same with your current passport. You can't pick up tickets by a expired passport number. If we use your new passport information to rebook tickets, additional fees will be incurred. 3.) If your old passport has a valid China Visa, please notify the authority do no harm to it, otherwise the visa would be invalid once damaged .

Travel China with China Discovery

China Discovery is a professional and experienced travel companion who offers high-value and worry-free tours for you. We not only design ideal itinerary covering sightseeing, dining, transfer and hotel, but also can provide any visa-related support & help you need to travel to China. With a Chinese Visa, you can freely travel to many cities in mainland China, among all, Beijing , Shanghai , Hong Kong are often used as gate way cities, Xian , Guilin , Chengdu are also excellent destinations to discovery different regional culture, history and local customs in China.

You may choose from our most popular China tours, or just  contact us , tell your interests and travel plans, we could customize a perfect China tour as you like.

• ● 2024 China Tours from Capital Beijing
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• ● Top 10 China Tour Packages
• ● Most Classic China Tours
• ● China Great Wall Tours
• ● China Giant Panda Tours
• ● China High Speed Train Travel
• ● China Yangtze River Cruise Tours

Keep Reading

• What to Pack for China Travel
• Best time to Visit China
• China Facts
• China Accommodation
• Chinese Embassy & Consulate
• 72-hour Visa Free Transit in China

Recommended Tours

Top 3 tours chosen by most customers to explore in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

8 Days Best of China Tour (Flight/Bullet Train Covered)

Beijing / Xian / Shanghai

13 Days Classic China Vacation Tour with Yangtze Cruise

Beijing / Xian / Guilin / Yangshuo / Yangtze Cruise / Shanghai

15 Days China Tour with Tibet Discovery & Panda Visit

Shanghai / Guilin / Yangshuo / Guilin / Chengdu / Lhasa / Xian / Beijing

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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How to Get a China Tourist Visa in UK for British Citizens

Which country automatically comes to your mind when you talk about the East? I doubt China won’t be the first! As one of the biggest countries in Asia (and one with the richest culture and history, no doubt), China has been one of the most prominent Asian countries, especially during the past few years. Its economy, along with its tourism industry is just booming.

You’ll find that China is like a mixture of the past, present, and future all in one large mass of land. You’ll be surprised at how towns can go from being a modern metropolitan area bustling with people and cars to a historical landmark in just a blink of an eye.

• Three Days in Beijing Itinerary- The Best Things to do in Beijing, China
• 14 Best Cities to Visit in China with Tips on Places to Visit
• First Trip to China – Our Luxury Hotel Stay Experience with Sofitel Beijing Central
• List of the Best Luxury Hotels in China
• 10 Traditional Chinese Medicine Activities You Can Do in Beijing, China

However, this is just a small peek of what China is. It’s not easy to encapsulate in a few words just how China should make it to your travel list with a history spanning at least 3 millennia. If you want to know what China’s all about, let me give you a few tips on how you can get to this country using your UK Passport.

Table of Contents

Quick Facts About China

Capital: Beijing

Country Code: +86

Languages Spoken: Mandarin (widely spoken among all the Chinese languages), English

Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB)

Emergency Numbers: 110 for the Police, 120 for the Emergency Center, 122 for any traffic accidents, 12110 SMS alarm for the Police, 12395 for Search and Rescue Center (emergencies in water), 119 for Fire Alarm

Requirements for China Tourist Visa

• Passport with at least 6 months remaining validity as well as a photocopy of the passport’s data and photo
• Filled out a copy of the Visa Application Form
• A recently-taken color photo with a white background ( here are the requirements)
• Proof of legal stay or residence status in if you’re not applying for the visa in your country of citizenship
• If you’re not applying in your country of citizenship, you must provide the original as well as a photocopy of your valid visa or certificate of stay as well as employment or student status in the country where you’re staying (if applicable)
• A copy of previous Chinese passports or previous Chinese visas should you have any
• Documents showing your itinerary in China, hotel accommodation, round trip tickets, and if applicable, an invitation letter sent by a relevant entity or individual in China (you can also get something like this from a tour operator should you decide to book your trip with one), a cover letter may come in handy as well

Step-by-Step Procedure in Applying for China Tourist Visa

1. Gather all the necessary documents for your application

2. Create an appointment with the Chinese Visa Application Service Center to drop off your application here

3. Arrive at the Visa Center on the day of your visit with your documents

4. Have your on-site photo taken while your passport is being scanned

5. Submit your application at the counter after your number is called

6. Fill out the payment-due slip which will be given by the staff to you if your application is accepted

7. Pay the visa fee, service fee, postal service fee, etc.

8. Retain the pickup form which you’ll be showing once your China Tourist visa is ready for pick up

9. Track the status of your application here and pick it up when it’s ready

• You might be asked to attend an interview depending on the requirements of the Chinese Embassy. They will give you a time for the interview and you have to come back to the embassy on the dot.
• If you want to receive your passport through the post, please provide a prepaid, traceable envelope with the assigned receiving address when submitting. There will be an extra charge if the visa center will be the one to provide an envelope for you.
• You should also fill out the Payment Authorization Form in case you need to get a refund or you need to be charged additionally by the center through your debit card.
• You must submit your application and collect your passport by yourself. If, in any case, there’s something that’s preventing you from coming to their office personally, you may have someone apply for you. Just make sure that you have prepared all the documents and have signed all that needs to be signed.

Where You Can Apply for China Tourist Visa

LONDON 12 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DU Telephone: +44 (0)20 7776 7888 Fax: +44 (0)20 7710 6001 Email: [email protected]

EDINBURGH 2nd Floor, Exchange Tower 19 Canning Street City of Edinburgh EH3 8EG United Kingdom Telephone: 0131 2292519 Fax: 0131 2291598 Email: [email protected]

MANCHESTER Ground Floor, 81 Mosley Street Manchester, M2 3HR Telephone: 44- 1612361070 Fax: 44-1612361070 Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions about China & China Tourist Visa

1. How long does it take to process the application for a China Tourist Visa?

You can choose to have the standard service where you can get the visa on the 4th working day, or express service where you can get the visa on the 3rd working day (still subject for approval).

2. How much does it cost to apply for a China visa?

Here are the rates for applying for a Visa (inclusive of VAT):

• Regular Service: £151
• Express Service: £182
• Postal Return: £175

3. How long is my visa’s validity?

The Chinese visa is typically valid for 3 months and allows a UK Citizen to stay in their country for a maximum of 15 days.

4. How far ahead can I apply for a Chinese visa?

You should apply at least 1 month ahead of your trip to China. Since visas are only valid for around 3 months, you wouldn’t want to risk getting it expired before your trip.

5. Can I extend my stay in China?

Yes! You can visit a local public security office before your visa expires to let them know that you’d like to get an extension for your stay.

Please note that there’s no guarantee that your request may be granted and also, do not overstay in the country as it is punishable by law.

6. Can I work using my Chinese Tourist (L) visa?

Not! We all know how strict China can be with their rules and regulations. If you’re interested in working in China, there’s an appropriate visa available in the country which you must apply for.

7. Should I get travel or medical insurance upon visiting China?

The government suggests that you do, just in case you’ll need it. One of China’s problems is the typhoon season as it’s conveniently located within the Pacific Ring of Fire. You’ll never know if you’ll need it.

8. Will I need a translator when in China?

According to some accounts, you will not have trouble finding people who speak English while you’re there, contrary to popular belief. However, if you go to the countryside, there might be a possibility that some people might not understand you.

In this case, it’s handy to download a translator on your phone just to make sure you can communicate the basics with the locals.

9. Can I use my local currency when paying in China? Can I use my credit card?

Foreign currency is not readily accepted as a method of payment, especially in local stores, tourist sites, etc. You can have your money exchanged at foreign exchange counters or banks. You may also use ATMs when you arrive at the airport.

As for credit cards, you may use them to pay major establishments in the cities but it might be hard to use them (or you might not even be able to use them at all!) in the rural areas.

10. How do I go around?

Since most roads in China have already improved and it’s a steadily growing country, you’ll find different methods of transportation while you’re there. Taxis, buses, subway… you name it!

11. Is it easy to get WiFi access in China? Can I use my mobile phone while in China?

The Internet is available anywhere in China. However, some major sites like Facebook and Google are banned and can only be accessed through VPNs. 

As for your mobile phone, you may use it after it’s unlocked by your carrier. You may also opt to buy a SIM card while you’re there, but you will need to present your passport when doing so.

12. Is China safe for tourists?

While you have to always be vigilant as to when you’re in any other country, China is a pretty safe destination for tourists.

There is, however, a travel advisory released by the UK Government regarding the rising air pollution index levels in China. It’s always best to check this information in real-time to avoid any health problems that might be caused by the level of pollution in the air.

13. Can I visit Hong Kong or Macau while I’m in China with the same visa?

No. This already counts as entering another country so unless you’re eligible to enter these two nations without a visa or by getting a visa on arrival, you have to apply for a separate one.

14. Where should I go while in China?

That’s a tough question because honestly, China’s so big and so full of things to do or sights to see that we might even run out of time to discuss them! 

For starters, it’s recommended that you visit major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Here, you will find the famous historical spots like the Forbidden City (Beijing) which used to house Chinese royals before they were overthrown by the Republic in 1911.

Beijing also has other world-famous structures like the Great Wall of China (which is a must when you visit China), Tiananmen Square, and the Bird’s Nest which was built for the Olympics. All these attractions have modern buildings and colorful billboards of Beijing as its background, making such a contrasting yet interesting view of the city.

As for Shanghai, the biggest city in China, you’ll be greeted by the sight of towering skyscrapers and brightly-lit streets. Here, you’ll find ancient temples and modern museums standing almost side-by-side.

During the night, you can go and take a trip onboard the Bund underwater train or walk around Nanjing Road to do some shopping. Shanghai is also home to a Disneyland Park if you’re up for some adventure.

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Latest news, important update: renewing british passports in china.

Travel advice for China was updated on 29th May by the FCO UK Consular Section. The following is an extract of the update:"Check that your passport is still valid, as you are legally required to have a valid passport in China. If you need to renew or apply for a new British passport, our Visa Application Centres, that accept passport applications abroad, reopen on 1 June. To apply for a new passport please visit our overseas passport application pages." Please click  here  for more information. 

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China derecognizes British National Overseas passport

A British National Overseas passports (BNO) and a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China passport are pictured in Hong Kong, Friday, Jan. 29, 2021. China said Friday it will no longer recognize the British National Overseas passport as a valid travel document or form of identification amid a bitter feud with London over a plan to allow millions of Hong Kong residents a route to residency and eventual citizenship. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

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BEIJING (AP) — China said Friday it will no longer recognize the British National Overseas passport as a valid travel document or form of identification amid a bitter feud with London over a plan to allow millions of Hong Kong residents a route to residency and eventual citizenship.

The announcement by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian on Friday throws up new uncertainty around the plan just hours after the U.K. said it would begin taking applications for what are called BNO visas beginning late Sunday.

Under the plan, as many as 5.4 million Hong Kong residents could be eligible to live and work in the U.K. for five years then apply for citizenship. Demand soared after Beijing last year imposed a sweeping new national security law on the former British colony following months of pro-democracy protests.

“The British side’s attempt to turn a large number of Hong Kong people into second-class British citizens has completely changed the nature of the two sides’ original understanding of BNO,” Zhao told reporters at a daily briefing.

“This move seriously infringes on China’s sovereignty, grossly interferes in Hong Kong affairs and China’s internal affairs, and seriously violates international law and the basic norms of international relations,” he said. “China will no longer recognize the so-called BNO passport as a travel document and proof of identity starting from Jan 31st, and reserves the right to take further measures.”

Many Hong Kongers carry multiple passports and it is unclear what if anything the Chinese government could do to prevent people entering the U.K. through the BNO visa plan. As a further protection of personal privacy, a cellphone app will allow applicants to download their biometric information without having to been seen visiting the British visa office.

The BNO passport was originally a disappointment for Hong Kongers when it was first offered ahead of Hong Kong’s handover to Chinese rule in 1997. At the time, it offered only the right to visit for six months with no right to work or become a full citizen. Applicants had to have been born before the handover date.

However, pressure grew to expand such privileges as China increasingly cracked down on civil and political life in Hong Kong in what critics say violates China’s commitment to maintain the city’s separate way of life for 50 years after the handover. China first declared the 1984 Sino-British Declaration setting out the handover arrangements null and void despite its recognition by the United Nations, then imposed the national security law on the territory after the city’s legislature was unable to pass it on its own.

“I am immensely proud that we have brought in this new route for Hong Kong BNOs to live, work and make their home in our country,” British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a statement.

“In doing so we have honored our profound ties of history and friendship with the people of Hong Kong, and we have stood up for freedom and autonomy – values both the UK and Hong Kong hold dear.”

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How UK’s increased passport fees compare with Europe and US

British passport fees are set to rise for the second year in a row.

Fourteen months after the Home Office increased passport fees by 9 per cent – the first increase in five years – prices are set to go up again this week.

From Thursday 11 April, the cost of renewing an adult passport will rise from £93 to £100 if submitting a postal application, and from £64 to £69 for children’s five-year passport.

Fees are cheaper if applying online: £88.50 for adults (up from £82.50) and £57.50 for children (up from £53.50). The new prices represent an increase of 7 per cent.

HMPO says that the increase will “help ensure that income … better meets the cost of delivering passport and associated operations, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation.” It states that government does not make a profit form passport applications, adding that the fees contribute to the cost of processing applications, consular support overseas (such as lost or stolen passports) and the cost of Border Force operations.

How long it takes to renew a UK passport, cost and if you can do it early

Since the widespread delays and industrial action at passport offices around the UK in 2022-2023, the official advice for application processing times has been reduced from 10 weeks to three. In practice the turnaround time is generally much swifter, taking on average nine days for an adult renewal, according to crowd-sourced information site, UK Passport Waiting Time .

However, many British passport-holders continue to be caught out by post-Brexit red tape – extra time added to renewals before they had expired up until September 2018 is no longer considered valid for entry to the EU.

A British passport must have been issued within the past 10 years on the date of entry, and to have at least three months before expiry on the date of return to the UK.

So how does the new cost of a UK passport compare with overseas? Most countries issue documents for 10 years, but some offer shorter, five-year passports, as well as discounts for pensioners, those with registered disabilities, and war veterans.

In most of the EU and Switzerland, identity cards are also accepted for movement within the bloc, although these can often be more expensive than a passport. They are compulsory in some countries such as Belgium and Cyprus.

We’ve looked at the costs of a 10-year adult passport in Europe and the US to see how the increased British fees compare, revealing that a British passport is the fourth most expensive in Europe.

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UK passports: How much will they cost to get or renew?

• Everything you need to know about UK passport renewals ahead of price hike

Passport fees will rise by more than 7% from tomorrow, following an announcement by the Home Office in March. 

This will mean that adults will have to pay an extra £6 and the cost of a passport for children under 16 will increase by £4.

The Home Office said in a statement: 'The new fees will help ensure that income from these applications better meets the cost of delivering passport and associated operations, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation.

'The fees contribute to the cost of processing passport applications, consular support overseas including for lost or stolen passports, and the cost of processing British citizens at UK borders.'

So, how much does it cost to renew a UK passport? When should you renew one and how long could it take to arrive? Here is everything you need to know about UK passport renewals ahead of the upcoming price hikes. 

How much does it cost to get or renew a UK passport? 

The cost of online applications made within the UK for people aged 16 and above will increase from £82.50 to £88.50, with passports for children now costing £57.50, up from £53.50.

There are similar rises in fees for postal applications and those made from overseas and these price hikes follow a 9% increase in February last year.

When should you renew a UK passport? 

You must make sure to renew your passport if it has either expired, the date of issue was more than 10 years ago - if travelling to countries with the 10-year rule - or your passport does not have enough time left on it before it expires. 

How much time you need on your passport depends on where you are going.

You can check entry requirements for individual countries on the UK government website.

How do you renew a UK passport? 

You can renew a UK passport online at HM Passport Office or by filling in a paper application from some Post Offices.

For the renewal process, you will need your old passport and any valid passports you hold from a different country.

How long does it take to renew a UK passport? 

It should take up to three weeks to renew a passport in the UK, but it can take longer during periods of high demand, such as before school holidays.

If you need a UK passport to be issued urgently, you can book an appointment at your nearest passport office, subject to availability, after which your new passport may take up to a week to be issued.

Can you travel in the EU on a UK passport and what is the 10-year rule?

Since the UK left the EU, travellers going to all countries within the bloc, as well as Iceland, Norway, Lichtenstein and Switzerland, but not Ireland, must have a passport which was issued less than 10 years before their departure date.

When travelling to the EU, a 10-year British passport is only valid for entry for exactly 10 years after the date of issue, regardless of the date of expiry.

Before September 2018, passport holders could have up to nine months added to their passport expiry date if they renewed their 10-year passport early. 

Post-Brexit, however, although the official validity of your passport may be beyond 10 years, the EU does not recognise these extra months if your passport is older than 10 years on the date that you enter the EU. On top of this, you must also have at least three months' validity on your passport beyond the date you intend to leave the EU's free-movement Schengen territory.

This means visitors must pay careful attention to the issue date and the expiry date.

For example, if you enter the EU from the UK on April 1, 2024, and return on April 5, 2024, you must have a passport issued less than 10 years before April 1, and that's valid for at least three months after April 5.

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UK passport: How much does it cost to get or renew and what is the 10-year rule?

The price of a getting or renewing a UK passport has risen for the second time in 14 months.

Meanwhile, UK holidaymakers travelling to the EU are being warned not to get caught out by the "10-year rule".

How much does it cost to get or renew my passport?

It now costs £88.50 to get, renew or replace your passport if you apply online , up from £82.50, or £100 for a postal application, up from £93.

An online application for a child's passport costs £57.50, up from £53.50, or £69 via post, up from £64.

It costs more if you apply from abroad, or if you require a passport urgently. Passports are free for people born on or before 2 September 1929.

The increased fees apply to both new passport applications and renewals.

Passport price to rise for second time in 14 months

When should I renew my passport?

You must renew your passport before you travel if either:

your passport has expired

your date of issue was more than 10 years ago (if travelling to countries with the 10-year rule)

your passport does not have enough time left before it expires

How much time you need on your passport depends on where you are going.

You can check entry requirements for individual countries on the UK government's website.

How do my I renew my passport?

You can renew online at HM Passport Office or by filling in a paper application from certain Post Offices.

You'll need your old passport and any valid passports you hold from a different country.

For online applications, you'll also need a digital photo that meets specific requirements. For paper applications, you need two identical printed photos.

The rules are different if you are renewing a passport for a child , your passport has been lost, stolen or damaged , or you need to change your name or personal details .

First British passports issued with King's name

How long does it take to renew a passport?

It should take up to three weeks to renew a passport in the UK, but it can take longer during periods of high demand, such as before school holidays.

To get a passport issued urgently in the UK, you can book an appointment at your nearest passport office , subject to availability. It then takes up to a week to be issued.

You can get more information on the Passport Office website or you can call the helpline on 0300 222 0000. The line is open 08:00 to 20:00, Monday to Friday, and 09:00 to 17:30 on Saturday, Sunday and UK bank holidays.

Can I travel in the EU on my passport and what is the 10-year rule?

Some British holidaymakers have been turned away at the airport because their passports are not valid for EU travel.

UK travellers used to be able to carry up to nine months left on an old passport over to a new one. This meant that a passport could be valid for more than 10 years.

But the rules changed after Brexit, and the majority of EU countries no longer accept British passports that were issued more than 10 years before the date of travel. This is known as the "10-year rule".

To enter those countries now, your UK passport must:

have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the EU country (the "date of issue")

be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave (the "date of expiry")

If your passport does not meet these requirements, you will be refused entry.

The rules apply in all 27 EU countries, except Ireland, which has its own separate travel arrangements with the UK.

They also apply to passengers traveling to Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein - which are part of the European Economic Area (EEA) - and Switzerland.

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How much does a UK passport cost – after second price rise in 14 months

A 7 per cent jump in cost follows a 9 per cent increase last year, article bookmarked.

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The price of passports in the UK has gone up from today (11 April), the second jump in cost in 14 months – leaving many questioning the steep increase in fees.

A new or renewed adult passport when applied for online has risen 7 per cent, from £82.50 to £88.50. This follows a 9 per cent prise rise in February 2023.

The cost of applying online for a child’s passport online has also gone up, from £53.50 to £57.50.

A postal application for an adult passport is now £100 (up from £93), with an increase to £69 from £64 for a child.

Costs are even higher if you apply from overseas or require a passport urgently. However, the travel documents are free for people born on or before 2 September 1929.

The UK passport is among the most expensive in Europe , with only Italy , Denmark and Switzerland charging more.

In comparison, a Spanish passport application costs £25, while in Germany it’s £60.

Prior to last year’s rise, the cost to apply for a passport had remained the same for five years, with a standard adult online application costing £75.50.

Martyn James, a consumer rights campaigner, told BBC News that “just because a business or organisation can raise prices doesn’t mean they should”, adding that “many users will question what they are getting for their money”.

The government says that it does not make a profit from passport applications, insisting that “the new fees will help ensure that income from these applications better meets the cost of delivering passport and associated operations, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation”.

“The fees contribute to the cost of processing passport applications, consular support overseas, including for lost or stolen passports, and the cost of processing British citizens at UK borders. The increase will also help enable the government to continue improving its services.”

According to the private website PassportWaitingTime.co.uk , standard online renewals are currently taking nine days from application.

HM Passport Office says: “You’ll usually get your passport within three weeks. It may take longer than three weeks if we need more information, or we need to interview you. We’ll tell you this within three weeks. There are different turnaround times if you’re applying from another country.”

When the world’s most expensive passports were revealed last year, the UK in 12 th place.

Australia topped the list of countries charging the most, with an adult passport costing citizens £192.

On a separate issue, travellers heading to EU countries (and the wider Schengen area) are being warned to be aware of the post-Brexit rules that require British passports to have been issued with the previous 10 years – even if they are still valid.

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