travel safety china

Is China Safe to Visit? — 2024 Traveler Safety Information

Generally speaking, China is a safe country to travel around, and most people you meet are friendly, honest, and trustworthy.

However, China is far from immune to crime, the weather can affect travel plans, there are some health risks that may be new to you, and accidents do happen.

China Travel General Information

China is conditionally open and can be visited. Cross-province tours are allowed in China (except for areas with medium or high risk).

For more information, please see China Travel Reopening: Live Updates on Restrictions.

Here is a simple table for a quick look at what you need to visit some of China's top destinations. This is for reference only. Feel free to contact us for more specific requirements.

Is China Safe NOW?

The big news in the past two years is COVID-19, the coronavirus pandemic. Although China has now contained the outbreak well within its borders, there is the underlying risk of a resurgence, especially from imported infections. For this reason, there are many travel restrictions at present, and many preventative measures are policy in China. See section 5 below.

Recent natural disasters have been increasingly well managed and have caused no loss of life to foreign tourists. Warning systems and amelioration are constantly improving with China's heavy infrastructure investment. Similarly, there have been very few outbreaks of bird flu and swine flu in humans in recent years. These have been minor, contained, and all over now.

Expat travel is currently possible in China, but quarantine requirements make foreign inbound tourism impractical. Here is a recent example of the start of the tourism recovery in China...

An Encouraging Story: Guide's First Foreign Tourist in 4 Months

May 17th 2020 was a normal day to most people, but it was an unusual day for our tour guide Gerry, who has been working as an English-speaking tour guide in Hangzhou for years. That day, he served his first international guest since the outbreak of novel coronavirus in January 2020.

This was also a notable day to many people in the tourism business. After nearly four months of waiting, finally we have ushered in the dawn of post-COVID-19 tourism.

Below is some of tour guide Gerry's diary entry (translated and paraphrased):

After a brief introduction, we drove to Meijiawu Tea Village, where we did a half-day adaption of China Highlights' One-Day Dragon Well Tea Culture & West Lake Tour.

This itinerary couldn't be more common when compared to any before the epidemic. However, at such a special stage in China's tourism recovery, when everyone in the domestic tourism business is facing a huge challenge, today's work was so meaningful! It indicates that the sun is coming out after the storm!"

1. The Largest Safety Risks in China

The most likely causes of harm to you as a tourist in China come from more mundane causes: pre-existing health issues (from high blood pressure to allergies), road traffic accidents, accidents during other tourist activities, or getting ill through poor hygiene or not keeping warm/cool enough and well-hydrated.

Road Traffic Accidents

China is ranked around 90 in the world for road death, better than most developing countries, similar to India, and less than 20% worse than the United States. You are far safer statistically traveling with China Highlights private transport

Tourism Related Accidents

While touring follow your guide's advice and safety instructions. Though many of China's attractions, thoroughfares, and facilities are well-designed and risk-ameliorated, being a developing country there are still probably more dangers than in your home country. Watch where you tread. Take care against slips, trips, and falls. Mind your head, and be careful of sharp protrusions, loose objects, wires, etc.

More dangerous activities like rock-climbing, swimming, white-water rafting, mountaineering, etc. are done at your own risk. Make sure your travel insurance covers what you plan to do.

China Travel Insurance: To be on the safe side, we are affiliated with some of the best online travel insurance companies selling insurance for your China vacation.

Health Issues

The main risks to your health are ordinary things like eating something you shouldn't, inadequate clothing for the conditions (see our weather pages for the month/destinations you will be traveling in for what to bring), overexertion, and exposure to infection. (Also altitude sickness in areas over 2,500 meters, mainly applicable to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.)

Come prepared and take precautions. Remember to take any medicines you need.

This is no more important than in the current coronavirus situation.

2. Crime in China

By and large, China is a relatively low crime country, but petty crime is still an issue and tourists are particularly vulnerable. A basic knowledge of potential risks and common scams is useful to help you have a smooth and safe trip in China.

• Take precautions and use common sense, particularly around the tourist areas and in crowded places like markets.
• Be particularly careful at night. At all times try to stick to busy, well-lit places.
• Make sure that you take notice of advice from our local guides. If they tell you an area is unsafe, do not go there.

Theft in China

• Wallets, mobile phones, cameras, jewelry and laptops are tempting targets for thieves.
• Try not to carry large amounts of money or obvious symbols of wealth, and keep your wallet or purse out of sight (back pockets are a big no-no). Do not flash a wallet around when paying for purchases and carry some loose change for beggars.
• Pickpockets tend to operate in crowded areas, for example on public buses, on trains, at city center bus stops and big shopping streets, so you are advised to keep a watch of your belongings when in busy and crowded places.
• Don't get caught in a crowd with lots of valuables dangling from you: camera, purse, backpack, etc. You can't keep an eye on everything.
• Purse snatching is a risk. Keep valuables close to your person.
• When you get up from taxis, buses, trains, etc, check nothing has fallen out of your pockets. It may not be there five minutes later if you come back for it.
• If you fall asleep on transport, beware people leaning over or reaching round you to get at your possessions. Put your valuables well inside your bag, so that they are not accessible by someone quickly opening a zip, or reaching into a pocket.

Keep Your Valuables Safe

• Make sure that you protect your passport, tickets, visa documents, etc. by carrying them on your person, preferably underneath clothing in a pouch or money belt.
• Never leave valuables lying around your hotel room or in your car. Use a safe deposit at your hotel.
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and other vital documents separately.

Be aware that local laws and penalties, even those which may seem harsh by your home country's standards, do apply to you. For example, there are strictly enforced laws that prohibit demonstrations unless they have prior approval from the government. Penalties for drug offenses are severe, and include the death penalty, as do certain other serious crimes.

As China celebrates the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and continues to feel the trade war with the United States, officials have tightened up their enforcement of visa laws. It is important to keep your visa up-to-date and stay within the visa guidelines. Immigration officials have become much more vigilant about foreigners overstaying their visas or working in China while under a tourist visa. However, workers are still welcome in China as long as they stay on the right visa, and tourists are still warmly welcomed by the government.

When Lost or in Difficulty

The police in China are generally very friendly, though they speak very little English except in Beijing, Shanghai or Shenzhen, where some police can generally speak simple fluent English. If you are lost then ask for directions as they will usually be happy to help.

For better communications, simple notes with common expressions both in Chinese and English are recommended. Also carry a card with your hotel's name and address in Chinese.

3. Natural Disasters and Adverse Weather

If a natural disaster occurs you should follow the advice of the local authorities.

Flooding and Landslides

The rainy season occurs between April and September. Rural areas near the Yangtze River, the Li, and other rivers may be subject to flooding during their respective rainy seasons, and this may affect tourist activities on or near rivers.

Landslides are more likely to happen in the monsoon season in China's mountainous areas, like Yunnan and Sichuan provinces and Tibet. They may block access in the summer, but equally snow and meltwater may cause problems in the winter and spring.

Earthquakes

Sichuan Province has experienced several sizable earthquakes in recent years. The 2013 quake caused some disruption to tourism around the Panda Research Base and Leshan, but no tourists were injured. The 2017 Jiuzhaigou earthquake devasted the area, stopped tourism for 2 years, and killed at least 8 tourists. Other quakes in remote areas haven't affected tourism.

Typhoons can occur during the wet season, usually from June to August, along the southern and eastern coasts. You should monitor weather reports if traveling in affected areas.

4. Other Possible Concerns

Travel in hong kong.

Recently, protests have sprung up in Hong Kong and have made international news. While these protests show no sign of ending soon and have disrupted Hong Kong local government, there is no indication that these protests or Hong Kong police response to them poses any threat to international visitors to Hong Kong. Caution should be exercised when traveling in Hong Kong, especially near areas of protest action, but Hong Kong remains relatively safe to the international traveler.

One final issue that have also arisen in the news media recently are the exit bans imposed by the Chinese government. Exit bans are used to restrict travel outside China and keep foreigners and Chinese nationals from leaving the country. As the US/China trade war continues, these are being used more frequently on international business travelers from the United States. However, the vast majority of exit bans are used on Chinese citizens trying to leave China, and not on American or other foreign travelers.

Again, China still encourages international tourists to come, and there have been no documented cases of an exit ban being used on an international traveler with a tourist visa.

5. COVID-19 Policy for Travelers

• To enter hotels and tourist attractions, you will need to show an ID card or passport with your Health Code (you will need to register on the Alipay health monitoring app, which only takes a few minutes).
• Double check which hotels can accept foreigners before you book (fewer can during the outbreak).
• All inbound visitors (including from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau) must be quarantined in specific places.
• If coming from "high-risk areas", you have to provide a nucleic acid test certificate and/or blood test certificatedated within 7 days. You can check with us if you want to learn more details about high-risk areas and testing.

Though more and more tourist attractions are reopening, there are strict safety procedures and requirements. If you are already in China and want to travel, our professional travel consultants are always ready to help!

With China Highlights Your Are in Safe Hands

With our on-the-ground long-term local experience, we can help you to have a trouble-free trip, from the moment you get through customs on your arrival, to the point where you go through customs to leave again after a pleasant time here packed with wonderful memories.

With our fully-customizable services, we can offer you as much — or as little — help as you need in making your arrangements to your own specifications. Why not contact us and see what we can do for you?

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in China overall. 

China (PDF 1.07 MB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise a high degree of caution in China overall.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Tibet and Xinjiang.

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

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

Full travel advice:  Safety

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

Full travel advice:  Health

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

Full travel advice:  Local laws

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

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

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

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

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

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Petty crime occurs, including:

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

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

Criminals target travellers in crowded areas, including on transport.

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

There are scams  that target travellers.

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

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

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

Never carry parcels or luggage for others.

Always pack your own bags.

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

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

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

Always obtain a police report when reporting a crime.

Fake money scams

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

Armed bandit attacks are a risk in remote areas bordering:

Be careful if travelling in these areas.

Cyber security

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

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

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

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

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

Avoid protests, demonstrations and large gatherings.

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

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang)

Increased security measures are in place in Xinjiang.

People of Uyghur descent are particularly affected.

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

Violent incidents causing deaths and injuries have occurred across Xinjiang.

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

Tibet Autonomous Region (Tibet)

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

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

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

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

You can only travel as part of an organised tour.

See  Travel

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

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

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

You could become the victim of violence directed at others.

Climate and natural disasters

China experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

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

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

If there's a typhoon:

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

If a typhoon is approaching:

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

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

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

Earthquakes and tsunamis

China can experience earthquakes and large, destructive tsunamis.

If there's an earthquake or tsunami:

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

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

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

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

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

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you travel. 

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

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

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

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

Physical and mental health

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

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

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

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

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

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

Medications

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

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

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

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

Health risks

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

Drink only bottled water with sealed lids.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

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

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

To protect yourself from avian influenza:

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

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

• Avian influenza (WHO)
• Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS  is a significant risk in China.

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

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

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

Insect-borne illnesses

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

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

• Tibet (Zanbo Valley areas only)

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

To protect yourself from disease:

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

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

Be careful with both wild and domestic animals in China.

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

Hand, foot and mouth disease

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

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

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

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

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

To protect yourself from illness:

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

High pollution levels are a problem.

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

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

When a red alert is in place, authorities:

• close schools
• limit car use
• suspend construction activity

Flights are regularly delayed in China because of smog.

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

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

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

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

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

Altitude sickness

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

• parts of Xinjiang
• Western Sichuan

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

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

Symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• coordination problems

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

To protect yourself from altitude sickness:

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

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

Medical care

Medical facilities.

International standard medical services in China are expensive.

If you plan on staying in China for a while:

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

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

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

Medical staff in rural areas may not be adequately trained.

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

Medical evacuation from China can be very expensive.

Medical tourism

Travel to China for  medical treatment  is increasing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

If detained, a person of this age will be:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Authorities have executed foreigners for drug offences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Legal proceedings and investigations

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

• criminal matter or investigation
• civil or commercial dispute

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

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

If you're involved in local legal matters:

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

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

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

In China, it's illegal to:

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

If you break these laws, you could be:

Registration and identification

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

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

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

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

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

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

LGBTQIA+ laws

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

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Australian laws

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

• Staying within the law
• Doing business in China

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

Before starting business relationships:

• investigate the market
• conduct appropriate due diligence

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

Business versus criminal matters

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

Penalties for commercial and economic crimes are often severe.

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

• Doing business
• Living or working overseas

Employment in China

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

If you’re considering travel to China for work:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dual citizenship

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

If you're a Chinese-Australian dual national:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact the local Entry and Exit Administration Bureau for details.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Authorities have strict penalties for visa violations. Penalties include:

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

Make sure you leave China before your visa expires.

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

Border measures

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

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

Travel to Hong Kong and Macau

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

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

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

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

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

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

• other areas in Guangdong Province

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

• Hong Kong travel advice
• Macau travel advice

Other formalities

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

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

For the registration process you need:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lost or stolen passports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To replace your passport and visa:

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

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

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

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

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local travel

Authorities restrict travel by foreigners in China.

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

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

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

• landline phone
• mobile phone

Driving permit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road travel

Travel by road is dangerous because of the following:

• poorly maintained roads
• aggressive driving

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

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

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

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

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

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

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

Always wear a helmet.

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

Always insist that the meter is used.

Most taxis in China don't have seatbelts.

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

Ridesharing apps are widely used in major Chinese cities.

Public transport

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

Transport operators may not:

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

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

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

• Transport and getting around safely
• Travelling by boat

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

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

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

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

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

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

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

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

Australian Embassy, Beijing

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

Australian Consulate General, Chengdu

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

Australian Consulate General, Guangzhou

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

Australian Consulate General, Shanghai

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

Australian Consulate-General, Shenyang

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

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

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

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

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

China travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: May 6, 2024 10:24 ET

On this page

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

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

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Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region

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

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

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

Tibet and Tibetan autonomous prefectures

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

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

In these regions, expect:

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

If you travel to these regions despite the risks:

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

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

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

Embassy of the People’s Republic of China

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

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

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

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

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

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

Police presence may be poor around border areas.

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

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

Counterfeit currency

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

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

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

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

If you’ve been scammed:

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

Telephone scams

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

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

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

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

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

Internet censorship and cyber security

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

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

Cyber security while travelling.

Journalism and research

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

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

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

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

Demonstrations

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

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

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

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

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

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

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

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

Public transportation

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

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

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

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

To minimize the risk of being overcharged:

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

Marine transportation

Ferry accidents have occurred in China.

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

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

Information about foreign domestic airlines

If you intend on engaging in trekking activities:

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

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

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

Tensions on Korean Peninsula

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

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

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

Registration of Canadians Abroad

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

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

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

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

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

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

Regular Canadian passport

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

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

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

Other travel documents

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

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

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

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

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

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

Transit without visa and visa-free stays

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

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

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

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

Visa application outside of Canada

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

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

Visiting Hong Kong and Macao

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

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

Proof of onward travel

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

Fingerprints

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

Screening of digital devices

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

Residency registration

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

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

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

Health entry requirements

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

Yellow fever

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

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

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

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

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

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

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

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

Routine vaccines

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

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

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

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

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

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

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

Country Entry Requirement*

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

Recommendation

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

About Yellow Fever

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

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

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

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

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

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safe food and water precautions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Insect bite prevention

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Animal precautions

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

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

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

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

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

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

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

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

Person-to-person infections

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

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

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

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

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

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

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

Medical services and facilities

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

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

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

Travel health and safety

Altitude sickness

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

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

Keep in Mind...

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

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

You must abide by local laws.

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

Criminal proceedings

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

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

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

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

Death penalty

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

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

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

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

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

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

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

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

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

National security, social order, and public interest

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bans and Sanctions

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

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

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

It could include:

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

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

Consult entry and exit requirements for information on exit bans

Political activities

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

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

Non-Governmental Organization activities

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

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

Religious activities

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

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

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

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

Facial recognition and use of video surveillance (CCTV)

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

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

Military installations

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

Seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

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

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

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

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

Prohibited or controlled items

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

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

Importing pets

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

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

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

Animal Health Office - Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Getting married in China

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

Marriage overseas

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carefully consider the implications of driving in China.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in China.

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

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

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

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

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

Doing business in China

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Studying abroad

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

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

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

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

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

Typhoons and monsoons

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

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

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

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

Air pollution

Air pollution can be severe across much of China.

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

Monitor air pollution levels, which change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

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

Air pollution in China  – World Air Quality Index

Seismic activity

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

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

What to do during an earthquake

Avalanches and landslides

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

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

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

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

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

Consular assistance

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

Chongqing, Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

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

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

  Avoid non-essential travel

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

  Avoid all travel

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

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

Safety and security

Terrorism  .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.  

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . 

Terrorism in China 

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in China. 

Although foreigners have not been specifically targeted, attacks may happen in places visited by foreigners. You should take particular care during national holidays or when transiting public transport hubs, and always follow the advice of the local authorities.

Political situation  

In China, the country is ruled by a single political party. Though China is open to foreign visitors, you should be aware of political and cultural sensitivities. 

Avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings. The Chinese authorities enforce public order strictly, and you may face arrest, detention and deportation. Foreign journalists have been intimidated, assaulted or detained for trying to report on demonstrations. 

You may risk becoming a target when there is an anti-foreign feeling or attitude in China. Keep informed of developments and follow the advice of the local authorities. During periods of tension, the authorities may block: 

• news reporting 
• access to text-messaging 
• the internet 
• international telephone lines 

Issuing or supporting political statements critical of China or the Chinese authorities could be viewed as illegal.

Serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare, but incidents can happen. Take care of your belongings at major tourist sites and other busy places, particularly where foreigners gather. If your passport is lost or stolen, go to the nearest police station or Public Security Bureau and get a report of the incident.

Drink spiking and sexual assault 

Do not leave drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers. Personal attacks and sexual assaults are rare, but they can happen, including through drinks being spiked. Women, travelling alone or with female friends, could be at higher risk. See advice for women travelling abroad . 

Beware of scams in popular tourist areas. A common example is the ‘tea tasting’ or ‘massage’ scam. You may be invited to visit a bar, to drink tea or have a massage, but then face demands for a large fee. This can be followed by threats, violence or credit card fraud. 

Check QR code stickers on rental bicycles carefully before using them. The legitimate barcode can be replaced with a false code, which redirects money to a different account.

Commercial disputes 

Before entering a commercial contract in China, take legal advice, both in the UK and in China. Contracts entered in the UK are not always enforced by Chinese courts. 

If you’re involved in or connected to a business or civil dispute, the Chinese authorities may impose an exit ban, which means you cannot leave China until the matter is resolved. British nationals have been detained against their will, intimidated and forced to pay money. 

Violence is rare, but it can be threatened. Report any threats of violence to the Chinese police. 

Teaching in China 

Thoroughly research the school or university that is hiring you in China and make sure you’re confident they are following the law. Teachers have been detained and deported for working on the wrong visa. It is your responsibility to check you’re working on the correct visa. 

Building safety 

Fire safety .

Fire protection standards in Chinese accommodation are not always the same as in the UK. You should: 

• check fire precautions, including access to fire exits 
• make sure your accommodation has a working fire alarm  
• regularly check fire exits are not blocked 

Carbon monoxide poisoning 

Make sure your accommodation has a working carbon monoxide alarm. People have died of carbon monoxide poisoning due to incorrectly installed gas equipment.  

Energy UK give advice on how to stay safe and the symptoms to look out for . 

Cashless payments through smartphone apps such as WeChat Pay or Alipay are extremely common, especially in major cities. 

Outside major cities, credit cards are not always accepted and ATMs are limited. It is not possible to exchange Scottish or Northern Irish banknotes. 

Fake banknotes (especially 100 renminbi notes) are common, including from ATMs. Banks will not replace them. Check notes carefully before accepting them.

Laws and cultural differences  

Personal id .

Always carry your passport with you. Police carry out random checks, especially during periods of heightened security and major sporting or political events. They do not accept photocopies. Failure to produce your ID can lead to a fine or detention.  

If you renew your passport while you are in China, contact your local exit and entry office or call the national immigration service hotline on 12367, before or immediately upon receipt. 

Travelling to sensitive areas 

All foreign nationals travelling to or around ‘sensitive’ areas might attract more attention from the authorities, including when: 

• taking photographs 
• engaging with political groups or charities 
• engaging with ethnic minority populations 

Sensitivities can change over time and may heighten around particular dates or events. 

You may attract additional scrutiny while travelling around mainland China if you’re a current or former employee of: 

• foreign governments 
• media outlets 

This list is not exhaustive and may change over time. This is particularly relevant when travelling to areas with large ethnic minority populations, including but not limited to Xinjiang. See regional risks for more information. 

National security laws 

China’s authorities have detained foreign nationals who break national security laws. Both ‘national security’ and ‘national interest’ appear regularly in Chinese legislation and have broad scope. You may be detained without having intended to break the law. Activity that happened outside of mainland China – including online activity – could fall under scope of mainland legislation. There is a risk of arbitrary detention, including of British nationals. 

Religious activities and materials 

The Chinese authorities formally recognise 5 religions: Buddhism, Catholicism, Islam, Protestantism and Taoism. Only officially registered religious organisations are permitted to carry out religious activities. Even officially registered organisations must observe restrictions on some religious activities, including preaching and distributing religious materials. The Falun Gong movement and others the authorities consider as ‘cults’ are banned in China. 

Criminal proceedings 

Chinese laws and procedures relating to the arrest, detention and trial of criminal suspects are different from in the UK. For example: 

• if detained, only legal and consular representatives are allowed to visit the detainee until sentence is passed 
• there is no trial by jury, the presiding judge or judges will reach a verdict and then pass sentence if they find the accused guilty 
• if a case goes to trial, the conviction rate is 99% 
• If an offence does not meet the threshold for criminal proceedings, the police have the right to sentence someone to not more than 15 days administrative detention without trial 

The granting of bail is rare, and the criminal process can often last at least a year before a verdict is passed. If bail is granted the accused will not be permitted to leave China. 

If you’re suspected of a crime, the Chinese authorities can stop you from leaving China by: 

• withholding your passport 
• applying an exit ban 
• detaining you for up to 37 days without charge 

The thresholds for detention and prosecution in China differ from those in Hong Kong. 

Foreign nationals can be subject to exit bans. Exit bans can: 

• be put on people involved in commercial or private disputes to stop them from leaving mainland China 
• relate to investigations into an individual, their family or an employer 
• be used in criminal and civil matters, including business disputes 

Exit bans are different to detention or imprisonment. They are part of the Chinese legal process and can stay in place until a legal process is complete. An exit ban may can last for months or years. You may not be aware you are subject to an exit ban until you try to leave mainland China. If you’re detained on grounds of national security, you may be detained for up to 6 months before formal arrest and denied legal representation before charges are brought. 

Illegal drugs penalties and prison sentences 

There are severe penalties for drugs offences in China, including the death penalty. The Chinese authorities randomly test foreign nationals for drugs, including on entry to the country. If you test positive, the Chinese authorities can prosecute you regardless of where or when you took drugs. Police also raid homes. If drugs are found in your property, penalties can be extremely harsh. 

The police can raid nightclubs and bars. If you’re in a bar that’s raided, you will be subject to on-the-spot testing and immigration checks. This may involve: 

• being kept at the location, or another location, for several hours 
• giving hair and urine samples  
• passport and visa checks  

Testing positive for drugs, or being found in breach of your visa conditions, can lead to heavy fines, detention and deportation. 

Internet access 

The Chinese authorities control internet access. Internet access can be limited around key political events and dates. Some services are permanently blocked, including: 

Other websites may sometimes be blocked.  

China’s cybersecurity laws state that online products and services (for example, VPNs) need to be licensed by the Chinese government. See the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (in Mandarin). Make sure you stay informed and follow Chinese law. 

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex relationships are legal in China, but public attitudes are less tolerant than in the UK. Showing affection in public may attract negative attention. There’s no Chinese law guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Do not hike alone in isolated areas, including on the Great Wall. If you go hiking, always leave your itinerary, mobile number and expected time of return at your hotel or with a third party.

Transport risks 

Road travel  .

You must have a Chinese driving licence and valid insurance to drive in China. There are harsh penalties for driving without these, including fines and detention. 

Drive with caution in China. Accidents are common due to:  

• the poor quality of roads 
• high volumes of traffic 
• low driving standards   

If you’re involved in a serious traffic accident, call the police. Do not move your vehicle until they arrive but make sure you and your passengers are in a safe place. If there are injuries, you may be held legally responsible for medical costs. You will also be held responsible if you hit a pedestrian.  

There are harsh penalties including fines, detention and imprisonment for driving under the influence of alcohol, even at very low levels.  

Rail travel 

You must show your passport to buy a ticket and to board a train in China. 

Trans-Mongolian Express trains (Beijing-Moscow via Ulaanbaatar) are known for smuggling. Search your compartment and secure the cabin door before the train leaves. 

Petty theft from overnight trains is common. 

Sea travel 

Mariners should avoid the disputed territory between China and other countries in the East China Sea and the South China Sea. There have been incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships in the area. ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre has further information about piracy and armed robbery. 

Avoid travelling in unmarked or unmetered taxis, as there have been incidents of sexual assault and robbery against foreigners. In marked taxis, make sure someone knows where you are and try to take a note of the taxi’s number. 

Disputes over taxi fares can quickly escalate. Any physical altercation could lead to detention regardless of who is to blame. Insist on paying the metered fare and ask for a receipt. The receipt should have the taxi number on it. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Earthquakes .

China is in an active seismic zone and can experience major earthquakes. Learn what to do before, during and after an earthquake from the US Federal Emergency Management Agency.  

The typhoon season in China normally runs from May to November, affecting southern and eastern coastal regions. Air travel and other forms of transport can be affected. You should monitor the progress of approaching storms on the Japan Meteorological Agency and the China Meteorological Administration websites. 

See guidance on tropical cyclones for advice about what to do if you are caught in a typhoon. 

Flooding and storms are common between May and November. You should monitor  local weather reports  and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

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Is China Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• China : Safety by City

China, officially known as the People’s Republic of China is a huge country located in Eastern Asia.

The country is actually about the same size as the United States of America, and it has the world’s largest population.

In total, it borders 14 nations: Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam to the south; Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan to the west; Russia and Mongolia to the north and North Korea to the east.

This impressive number of neighboring states is equaled only by China’s neighbor to the north, Russia.

The world’s oldest continuous civilization offers a unique mix of history, culture and contemporary technology: expect breathtaking sections of the Great Wall, temple-topped mountains, forgotten villages, absolutely unique and beautiful Buddhist grottoes, and ancient desert forts.

Most major cities in China are extremely safe.

Violent crime remains rare and it is generally safe even for women walking alone at night.

There are some scams, as in any country and petty crimes can happen especially in crowded areas.

However, Chinese people are very warm and ready to help, so it is likely that your trip will end without any incidents whatsoever.

• Warnings & Dangers in China

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Overall, China is safe to travel to, but crime rates vary depending on the area of the country. Some cities are very safe, while in some there are areas that are best avoided, but in general, you should be wary of petty theft and look closely after your belongings which will minimize the chances of anything going wrong.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Taxis can be unsafe in China, because it is filled with unlicensed taxi vehicles that don't use meters and might try to rip you off. Always negotiate everything in advance and never pay upfront. Transportation stations are also risky, as they are known to attract criminals, often at the ticket booth, as do overnight train cars and Trans-Siberian express lines.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

There is high risk of pickpockets in China. They frequently operate in packs by having one member distract you while another steals your wallet or purse.Take extreme caution when in China, be twice as vigilant in Chine as you'd be anywhere else - don‘t leave anything valuable in your back pockets. If you do encounter a pickpocket, be very loud in order to attract attention and, hopefully, the police.Thieves in China also tend to operate in restaurants, so keep your bag on your lap.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

There are threats from earthquakes happening, but they are typical for non-tourist areas. In southern parts of China, especially around Yangtze river, there's a risk of flooding or landslides due to heavy rain during the rainy season. Other risks are typhoons along the southern and eastern coastlines, and extremely high air pollution.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

China on the whole is extremely safe. Crime against foreigners is rare, and violent crime, and incidents such as mugging and rape, against foreigners is extremely rare.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in China. Even though foreigners haven’t been targeted, these attacks may be executed in places frequented by visitors. You should take particular care during national holidays.Most attacks take place in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous region and, according to the Chinese government, are carried out by Uyghur separatists with possible links to the East Turkestan Islamic Movement

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Like in any other tourist destination, China is a place where there it's likely you'll get scammed or someone will try to scam you. It is actually extremely likely. Have your wits with you and double check your change or try to use small bills.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

China is safe for solo women travelers. Just use your common sense and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid wearing purses and do not walk alone or ride in taxis at night.

• So... How Safe Is China Really?

China is a huge country with extreme variations in crime rates depending on the area.

Violent crime rates are mainly low in this country, but it is advised to avoid some areas.

Petty theft is common and expected, mostly near tourist attractions, Beijing International Airport, expat bars at night or street markets.

Yuyuan Garden, a major tourist and shopping area in Shanghai can be a risky spot when it comes to pickpocketing.

Avoid carrying anything in your pockets or purses in general.

The petty crimes seem to be on an increase during February (Chinese New Year), and only rarely do they turn serious, with reports appearing every now and then of violence or committed against tourists.

Another issue is that you must carry your passport with you at all times when you visit China since there are random checks performed on tourists.

The tricky thing is that when you carry your passport around, there is a greater chance of it being stolen, so be very careful when carrying it.

Another common issue is beggars, who may turn aggressive or sometimes follow you for a block or more even if you choose to disregard them.

Child begging is another problem in China, and there is a general suspicion that the country‘s high rate of missing children has to do with this fact.

• How Does China Compare?
• Useful Information

Visa is required when traveling to China. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after the expiry date of your visa. Citizens from 51 nations (among which are US, Brazil, Canada, France, the UK and Australia) can stay in Beijing for 72 hours without a visa as long as it is a layover, they are traveling outside of China, and have a ticket out of Beijing. The similar thing applies for Shanghai. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Renminbi or "yuan" is the official currency in China. ATMs are widely used, but credit cards are not as commonly accepted and used as you would expect.

The climate in China varies depending on the area of the country, since it is massive. Rainy season generally lasts from February to September, and July and August are scorching hot. The best months to visit China are September and October. Places like Xinjiang, which are usually extremely hot in the summer and still a bit too cold in spring, are in perfect season.

Beijing Capital International Airport is the busiest airport by passenger traffic in China and the second busiest airport in the world. Other major airports are located in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to China, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

China Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

China - Safety by City

Explore china.

• 8 Most Dangerous Cities in China
• A Detailed Guide on How to Plan a Trip to China
• 16 Pros And Cons of Living in China
• 10 Safest Cities in China
• 13 Most Beautiful Castles in China
• Are There Alligators in China?
• Where to Next?

94 Reviews on China

Very nice, safe in general.

You can get kidnapped and held hostage for political purposes by the government. Even with leaders of US, UK, Canada, and parts of EU cannot get them to release the hostage. So no, it’s no longer safe at all.

Only your own country has done this before, otherwise, it cannot explain how you are clear about these processes. A kidnap crying Stop “kidnap.”

You have clearly not been to China before, China is by far the safest country I’ve travelled to in my life, the people are very friendly, especially during the pandemic, China is now probably the safest country in the world.

totally agree! Most people in China have got vaccined! It is safer than most other countries during the pandemic…

Romania safest

But not as safe as my country Romania

Ehhh no, there are way safer countries than china, the safest country is Iceland.

Canadians still being held hostage

Two Canadians are still being held hostage by them, and minor correction, Trudeau could have gotten them out. Trump offered to get them back, on the condition that Trudeau ask him for help, but Trudeau is an idiot and refused.

They're rightfully held

But they’re held hostage for espionage. Then before and after their release, they didn’t refute nor deny claims of them being spies. Why would they not deny such charges if they aren’t guilty of being spies

r u kidding me?

Any where around the world can be unsafe, for example, American people can get arrested for sex before marriage in Virginia State. There are many more unthinkable things going on in this world and not just China.

I live in Virginia. No one has been arrested for that in decades, if ever! Plenty of old laws exist that no one would ever enforce. Seriously. But I agree that anywhere in the world can be unsafe. Here in the U.S., your chances of being hit by a bullet are higher than ever, sadly.

Tianjin Polytechnic University

Wow! This could be one of the most useful blogs We have ever come across on the subject. Actually a fantastic article! I am also a specialist in this topic so I can understand your hard work.

A mixed bag

While China is not the safest place to travel, if you respect the laws, you will not have much to worry about. At this time though, I do not recommend visiting as there is a lot of problems going on there politically. I went back in 2010 and again in 2012 for work. I loved it there but at the time, things were a bit different.

Great article

Love China and the people! Great article, I’m planning a trip this 2020 summer.

Don’t go! Haven’t you heard about the virus! It’s contagious and it already killed more than 41 people! And I think over 33 million people are affected!

Amazing place!

Just come back From Beijing was there for Christmas and New year, What a amazing country! Travelling in Beijing was easy, taxi drivers had a machine that spoke in English, I travelled a lot on the tube, sooo easy! Again all in English as well! They have a lot of Green Battery powered vehicles! More than in New Zealand! i was very impressed! Food …. oh my god the restaurants! They show London, Paris, Auckland, New York! up totally! the food was amazing, the actual restaurant establishment…. well they put the above countries to shame. The people were very warm! I had a shocking experience at the Great wall, some Chinese blokes wanted Photos of me with them….. they never seen a white fella before! funny! and strange at the same time. Shopping for clothes and gifts was easy and enjoyable. Would i go again? To right already booked for my birthday! Go! its a amazing place!

Your experience

All races and skin colors have traveled to China and especially Beijing and the Great Wall. I think they wanted you to feel special.

ITS CALLED THE CORONAVIRUS !

It’ll be gone soon, this article is for overall travel

if you’re american this didn’t age well hahaha

you must be brain dead to think you’re safer in america than you are in china from the virus.

Yes, the coronavirus origanated in Wuhan, China.

Beautiful, just follow rules and precautions

Aside from the Chinese government, China is a fairly safe place to visit. If you follow the rules and avoid doing risky things, you’ll most likely be fine.

Safety place

It,s fake,China epidemic is over.

A super safe country, even compared to western countries or cities like Paris, London, Amsterdam… etc… etc….

LOL HOW IS THAT TRIP TREATING YA ??? XDD)))))

ya china is a wonderful place… you can get arrested for thinking the wrong thing, if you are a black resident or tourist there you will be refused service, food, and room and board. You may potentially be held as a bargaining chip to get criminal CCP members back from abroad. lOL shame on the journalist and this article !!

Honey, you’re obviously not educated enough about this world! You want to talk about racial discrimination…? First, u can literally get arrested in America because of your skin color, and you can get mistreated or even worse things can happen in European countries or around the world. So don’t talk shit when you don’t know anything. Crimes are real in the world, and it’s not just happening in one Area. You should stop base your information of the internet or the rumors. I promise if you actually see and experience a day in China, you will love it! Don’t judge it until you truly know!

Very safe to travel especially major cities.

Malaysian woman, lived in Beijing for almost 10 years. Apart from fake money incident never got pick pocketed or experienced any crimes. Safe to walk home even past midnight, 3~4am in the morning. Ripping off tourist is normal everywhere in the world, always ask first before committing to anything.

I love Asia!

I had the same experience. I absolutely love Beijing!! My daughters and I walked to our apartment after karaoke at 4am and felt very safe. It’s a beautiful place with many beautiful people. My daughter has lived there for 3 years and loves it.

Beggars issue

For the beggar issue, just ignore them! They prefer to beg foreigners(generous and know nothing about the place) and women(sympathy). When you see them on the street, do not make eye contact, just walk like there is no one there. If they are on the subway(sometimes happen in Shanghai, but policies have made to stop these), IGNORE them! They might come very close, just act like you are blind and deaf.

Safe! Warming and so cool

Oh my ! The buildings are sooo cool! I am a carpenter so a big wow! The Forbidden city was out of this world! Went to a mall, 11 storey! 3 were just for food! People in Beijing and Shanghai.. warm Hospitable! Never had a negative experience at all! !! Food was very affordable! Travelling i found easy! Loves taking the tube was fun! Taxi was cheap, Overall thoroughly enjoyed my time there!

Love China and Chinese!

The infrastructure and skyscraper in China are so so amazing and surprising to me!!! United States is way behind many years…..

The high-speed railway can drive at almost 200miles/hr while the full water in a cup will not spill out!! So amazing. What if California has that railway between SF and LA.!!!

People are very friendly and warmly. Unlike US, the downtown in their big cities are extremely safe for anyone – even women and children alone walk there is normal, because Chinese crowd likes evening life. I cannot imagine a country which is more safe than China.

Water will not spill out？Tell you what. Even a small coin will not fall down

This needs to be updated!

Some advices

If you will use China’s Alipay and WeChat for mobile payment, you only need to bring a mobile phone when you go out, you don’t need to bring a wallet, and you don’t need to worry about fake money and pickpockets, and then you will find that everything becomes very serious In terms of cars, you can use Didi taxi, a taxi software similar to Uber, so that you will not be charged more.

Virus Factory China

virus factory China Chinese virus corona No 1 Risk Place in the world No 1 Fraud Duplicate Country

Very safety and friendly

you stupid thing, have you been to China and LIVE for a time? China is a very safe country! the fact that talk doesn’t need to pay makes you so shortsighted

China culprit

China is a country of copycat, they like to copycat products of standard brands and they are merciless killers of animals

Somehow copycat has made everything g better than the original. It’s called improvement.

You are brainwashed by western media.

xenophobic and racist place

I lived there 8 years and can say people are xenophobic and very unwelcoming because they are fueled by ccp to hate the outside world

You are a moron Maddy. Get out and see the world 🌎 and out of your moms basement. China is amazing 😉

Yes, especially the genocide of Muslim-Chinese people (Uighur people) trapped in huge warehouse-buildings. Been there and It is truly beautiful, like the time when I was travelling in the tourist van. While witnessing two Chinese police officers beating up a Uighur farmer on the road side. China is amazing !!!

Keep being manipulated and brainwashed by Western media’s political propaganda

You can go to India and America

The US is the safest.

You happy, have you been here? There is almost no epidemic in China now.

USA has more cases

Might be safe if you are communist and follow the laws. If not, bad, bad time. They will cut your head right off.

China will be the best place you visit

Go back to derkaderkastan Muhammad as in Muslim countries they stone people and if a woman is raped they kill her because it’s somehow her fault. China is amazing. Glad they keep the religious garbage out

you are right.it a dangerous country. off your head if you did something

I just feel sorry for your innocence, anyway may god forgive you,

Not safe they will put u in jail for espionage Don’t believe this site

China is safest country on earth

This site and some of the commenters are pure b/s fantasy. I reside in China as an expat. This is the safest country on earth: no guns, no knives, no drugs, no gangs, no rapes. None of the dangers noted on this site are present. Pickpocketing is extremely rare and will never be a danger to your safety should you ever be so unfortunate. China has defeated the covid entirely: the only cases currently are those brought by foreigners! The only danger a foreigner may face is the traffic: due to your ignorance of the rules and customs. Behave civilly, show respect, and you will be entirely safe anywhere any time.

Listen Grune.

As blind as a bat, you are. Go to Xinjiang, I think you know what I mean.

I came from Xinjiang I don’t even know what shit you are talking about?

one of best country in the world, where I went, lots of love from pakistan

A visit to Xinjiang

It is such a nice sight to behold in Xinjiang, the people living below the standards of China like 3rd world people. Oh and the huge warehouses currently known to keep millions of ‘misbehaving’ Muslim-Chinese people and committing the most horrid demoralised crimes. Anyways it is such a remarkable piece of architecture: so squared, so blank and so empty on the outside. By the way, it was a sight to behold to see a bystander farmer being kicked in the shins by two police officers.

China is a very safe country

In 2021, China is a very safe country. If China is not safe, then it is difficult for me to tell where else in the world is safe? As for thieves, it is now 2021, there are almost no thieves, very few, and it is not 10 years ago now. China has high-speed railways that can reach 350km/h The overall risk should be artificially modified to be very low. Welcome everyone’s rebuttal, welcome everyone’s inquiries.

Kidnapped by the government

Can get kidnapped by the government for political reasons outside of your control

Are you talking about Canada?

Scams everywhere, even the Beijing resident in-law warns NOT to help anyone on the street unless you want to be scammed.

I went to visit family and more people have attempted to scam me than when i visited India. I dont get how China has such a high safety rating here, especially following your own risk assesments. It scores low on only 2 categories, and i am seriously doubting the validity of your judgement. Also when i went to Xinjiang, i got approached by police for facetiming on the streets while speaking Danish with a friend.

The food was great though

Now in March of 2021 is China a safe place to go?

Yes, it’s safe, just bare in mind to follow every rules in China according to the health restrictions, do the pcr test, and show the respect to the government( which is pretty sad, I’m sorry) You don’t have to worry about the people and the health condition in China, it’s just about the politics, so just stay away from that, and you will enjoy your stay in China.

better than the US

It would be if you could go, but no tourist visas at the present time.

Extremely safe place

I’ve been to Shanghai, Nanjing, Ha‘erBing, and many other cities in China. Definitely an amazing country with efficient public transportation, beautiful natural landscape, and friendly people. China is very safe, you can walk around 2 am at night alone without worry being robbed or shoot, which I like the most. Looking forward to visiting China again when the pandemic is over.

Horrible pollution, even in the capital you get desert sandstorm from Mongolia in the winter. Moreover, this is the country that intentionally spread coronavirus to the world, force you to take Chinese vaccine if you want to visit, a vaccine which even their officials admit are ineffective. You could also be kidnapped by the Chinese government and used as a hostage as in the case of the two Canadians (the two Michaels). Don’t go unless you absolutely have to.

Do you really come to China or know about China? At present, the vaccination rate in China is very high, and the domestic people live a stable life without racial discrimination and terrorist attacks. On the contrary, some European and American countries that claim freedom and democracy are the real hell on earth

Shut up oaf!

Chinese vaccines are the second safest in the world(google pfizer crime history) We don’t ‘intentionally spread covid’. You ‘intentionally take covid’. You are an idiot to go to beijing for tourism. Even I admits beijing. is pretty bad. Why not go to shanghai or sanya? kidnapped? are you talking about criminal tourists?

Seems like a good country but some problems

China does seem like a nice country with its people its culture its long and interesting history and traditions and the food but also its technology and manufacturing is far Infront of the USA and the rest of the world combined there are high speed trains connecting most cities don’t even need a car

Only things that worry me is the government and also what is going on in the northwest of the country…..

There are no cars in China, and China is very backward. They are all horse-drawn carriages. You are the frog in the well.

YOU are thefrog inwell

No cars? tell you, china have too much cars

Are you kidding or you are just insulting your own intelligence

There are almost no thieves in China because people in cities no longer use any cash or card. They use QR Code on Wechat and Alipay to pay instead of cash. My friend have lived in Chengdu for a year and never paid in cash

China is a safe country to visit. You can feel after you have visited once. Many public camera everywhere, if someone commit a crime, he/she will be caught soon, because the lot crime rate, the police officers have enough energy and time to catch them.

Terrorist is not a big deal

I am from xinjiang there is almost zero terrorism well maybe not ‘almost zero’ but I assure you you would not experience terrorism in any form unless you are very very very unlucky

I am proud of my country, proud of the communism. STOP saying communism is bad. communism and collectivism kept the covid away fast and your stupid “individualism” and “democracy” caused the covid not going away after the vaccine is finished. Plus, why is don’t disrespect your government a bad rule? Isn’t it common sense we need to respect the government which created the country?

Hello,i had good experenced in china,,i just one to ask where i can find a supplier of aluminum used for doors and windows in yiwu city

Unparalleled safety

Very very very safe, no other country can compare

will it be safe for coloured muslim to go and explore.

I don’t know,but mostly we don’t care whatever religions you believe in

It is completely no problem, China has no media propaganda, the contrary, China is a very equal country. If someone can do you, you can also call the police. I am China, I promise that I am completely correct.

Better than U.S.

China is safer than United States

China #1! Great place to visit! 👍🏻

it is safe.

I am very sure that China is one of the safest places to travel.

You can walk in the cities at midnight without worrying about violent crimes. The only thing you need to watch out for is pick-pocketing in the crowd.

As for those who say you will be kidnapped by gov if you are not communist… they are just brain dead and ridiculous.

China is great

I’ve been in China for a long time. It’s very safe there. In fact, as long as I have a little sense of prevention, I won’t encounter liars and the like. The Chinese government is very considerate of the people. I like China very much. Please don’t misunderstand China just based on the media propaganda of your own country

A very great country. I have lived in Shenzhen for many years.I was shocked by the unrealistic reports in the western media such as the BBC

I spend a lot of time in china (from Australia.) It is very safe from any sort of violent crime. You can walk around at night alone no problem. There are scams though. Remember that any negative thoughts you have about china come from propaganda. None of this is real.

I have been to china and this does not deserve a 66 it deserves a >80. Border regions with other countries are the only unsafe places.

I <3 China

China is the best forever and always

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Is it safe to travel to China?

China is generally a safe country to travel to, as long as you know where you’re going and stay alert. China is visited by travelers from all around the world, and is of no danger to any person who understands local cultures and obeys local laws.

In saying this, China’s government does keep quite a tight lid on foreign influences, such as websites and news coverage, with internet censorship and public surveillance a common occurrence all over the country. Demonstrations and protests are prohibited in public places in China, and if you find yourself in one, or you take a photo or video of the event, this could land you in trouble.

Here are few other things to take note of when visiting China.

For the most part, China is a safe place to visit, and crowds in public places should not cause any worry. Of course, small risks are still present, including petty theft and pickpocketing in tourist areas, as well as at train stations and on sleeper buses and trains. As you have to carry your passport to purchase many things in China (SIM cards, train tickets, etc), be super vigilant, and always have photocopies and/or digital copies.

If you do find yourself haggling and bargaining in markets, be sure you have correct change and keep confident when negotiating with the stall holder. Paying for unmarked or unpriced goods may get you caught paying a whole load more, and if you’re not equipped with any Chinese phrases to use in the transaction, the language barrier will work against you.

Other scams you might encounter include being invited into a local’s home for a tea ceremony, and at the end, presenting you with an inflated bill of around RMB 1000 (USD 156). Always go with a reputable provider, or agree on a price beforehand.

As with many Asian countries, crossing the road safely does pose a higher risk than usual due to lax road rules, especially in smaller cities with less traffic lights. Even if you are crossing on a green pedestrian light, ensure you look both ways and cross safely, as there have been instances of tourists being seriously injured by late-coming vehicles.

Taxis are something to be wary of, too. When arriving in a city, always hail a taxi from the marked taxi rank and ensure the meter is on. Some taxis do not have seatbelts and are notoriously manic drivers, so if you do feel uncomfortable, request one with belts.

China has had widespread problems with environmental deterioration for years with the rise of industry. Air pollution is a problem in major cities around the country, so keep an eye out for air quality indexes each day, especially in hotter seasons, and if air quality is poor, limit your outdoor sightseeing.

Typhoons and monsoons are quite common around China, particularly in the south and southeast coastal areas between April and October. Low-lying areas around the Yangzi and Li rivers are also prone to flooding during this time. If you are travelling around then, keep constantly updated with weather forecasts.

Exercise normal safety precautions if you are visiting as a solo or female traveler. Stay to well-lit areas at night, keep your valuables (especially your passport) safe and travel in groups if you can.

• Keep your valuables safe in crowded places and on public transport
• Be extra careful when crossing the road, even on a green light
• Have your accommodation address written down in Chinese, and carry it with you at all times
• Do not get involved or go near protests or demonstrations of any kind

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What every American traveling to China in 2024 needs to know

Posted by Mike Cairnduff | Updated December 14, 2023 | China blog , Travel

OK, so you’re American and you’re traveling to China.

Firstly, congratulations! That is so exciting.

Having spent loads of time in China myself, I’m pleased to be able to share my best tips with you so that you can feel more confident and organized.

These are all the main things you should consider before jumping on the plane.

Not from the US? You may still find this article helpful but I’d suggest referring to my mega China travel tips page for more details.

1. Don’t tip

Great meal in China? Don’t tip. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

My first tip – don’t tip.

The Chinese don’t tip, and neither should you. It might feel strange at first, but you’ll get used to it.

There are some exceptions to the rule, for instance if you receive amazing service at a luxury hotel, but generally you can keep your purse closed for your entire trip.

If you want to hear my personal stories about tipping in China, or you want more information about the exceptions, visit this page on China tipping .

2. Shop around for flights

Airfares have been higher than usual so try to get a good deal. Image by goffkein.pro on Shutterstock.

This might sound like common sense.

But with China-US relations at a sobering low, the number of direct flights between the two countries has not rebounded to pre-pandemic levels.

The result? Higher than normal airfares.

This is why it’s even more important to shop around for a good deal. I recommend bundled flight and hotel deals through Trip .

(In case you don’t know, Trip is one of the best travel companies for China because it started there and has a huge offering of hotels, flights, tours, and train tickets.)

3. Plan your flight route

Flights from the US to China vary in terms of the route, flight time and cost. Image by Max Lewandowski on Pexels.

Speaking of flights, will you be flying out of the west coast or east coast?

And which Chinese city will you be flying into?

China is a huge country like the United States, so this will dictate not only how long your flight is , but also the options you have for a possible stopover (which may make the flight cheaper).

If you’re heading to southern China and you’re on a budget, you might find it’s more economical to fly to Bangkok, Thailand and transfer there.

There are lots of options, so it pays to do your research.

4. Consider U.S. government travel advice

Make sure you’re aware of the travel advice. Image by Yamil Najul on Shutterstock.

Before you buy your flights, it’s worth knowing the U.S. government’s official stance on visiting China.

Of the four travel advisory levels, the People’s Republic of China is regarded as Level 3: “reconsider travel”.

The U.S. government says you should “reconsider travel to mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including in relation to exit bans, and the risk of wrongful detentions.”

I believe the United States is the only country in the world with such advice at the moment (correct me if I’m wrong, in the comments below).

Other countries, such as Canada and Australia, have a lower level of advice, which is to “exercise a high degree of caution”.

It’s such a shame that the USA and China aren’t getting along at the moment.

5. Get a VPN before you leave

You need a VPN if you want to use hotel Wi-Fi. Image by Privecstasy on Unsplash.

If you want to stay connected with all your loved ones in the United States, and keep using all the sites and apps you’re used to, you’ll need a VPN if you want to use Wi-Fi in China.

Censorship is extensive and the Chinese authorities are making it harder and harder for the VPN companies.

Of course, you can survive in China as an American without a VPN but life is much, much harder. Almost every major American social media and news site is banned, not to mention sites that make our lives easier like Google.

Refer to my page on the best VPN for China which only highlights the ones that work in China.

It’s worth pointing out that the Chinese government isn’t trying to make it hard for foreigners regarding internet access. The restrictions are in place to control what the locals see.

6. Allow enough time for your Chinese visa

Allow time to get your Chinese visa. Image by Toa55 on Shutterstock.

One of the downsides of being a US citizen traveling to China is the visa process .

Unless you live near one of the Chinese consulates (and you do a walk-in), you’ll need to pay an agent to handle this for you.

You cannot do visa applications by mail. It’s a pain in the butt, and makes your trip a little more complex and costly.

For walk-ins, consulates are located in:

• Washington DC (the embassy)
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco

There used to be one in Texas but it’s closed at the moment.

You can refer to the Chinese embassy’s US page for more info.

When using an agent, allow about a week for visa processing, provided you’ve submitted everything perfectly the first go.

If you need a visa agent, I recommend using a trusted one such as iVisa:

Remember not to buy your airfare until your visa has been issued and you’ve got your travel documents back.

7. Brace yourself for the steps and stairs

One tiny, tiny section of the Great Wall. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

A lot of Chinese tourist attractions have loads of steps and stairs. And I’m talking thousands.

There are no elevators at the natural attractions, either. So, if you’re very unfit and you want to see some of China’s best attractions, you might need to rethink your trip.

From my experience traveling around China the past couple of decades, here are the main culprits with an insane amount of stairs and steps:

• The Great Wall of China (sorry!)
• Longji Rice Terraces near Guilin
• Any mountain (it probably goes without saying) such as Huashan Mountain
• Zhangjiajie, the area that inspired the backdrop in the movie Avatar
• Giant Buddha in Leshan

And there are many more!

Oh, and if you’re in a wheelchair, you’re going to have an extremely hard time in China even in the major cities.

Getting through a temple or the Forbidden City would be impossible (as Chinese traditions involve stepping over the bottom of a doorway), let alone being able to get up and down sidewalks.

8. Ditch the credit cards

Cash or card? You won’t hear that expression in China. Image by Rann Vijay on Pexels.

In recent years, China has become a lot more advanced than the US when it comes to consumer payments.

You’ll never see a Chinese person pull out a plastic card from their wallet. Everyone pays for stuff using a phone app – either WeChat Pay or Alipay.

The good news? You can too!

If you’re comfortable submitting your personal details (including passport details) to WeChat or Alipay, you’ll be able to pay for everyday stuff in China.

Your only other real option is cash, and that’s a pain because Chinese ATMs only spit out 100 yuan notes.

Small vendors often don’t have change for large denominations. It doesn’t sound like a big deal, but trust me, cash is getting really hard to use in China.

Sign up for Alipay or WeChat Pay, or both, before you head off. If you only sign up for one, my personal preference is Alipay as I find it a lot easier to navigate.

And when you sign up, make sure all your personal details match up, or your application will be rejected.

Customer service for both apps is appalling (it’s practically non-existent), so don’t bother contacting them if you have any issues.

You can check out my China travel apps page for more apps that will make your trip easier.

9. Expect a different hotel experience

A typical Chinese hotel room in a big city. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Hotels in China are OK, but they’re certainly not great (unless you’re staying in luxury).

When it comes to dealing with foreigners, Chinese hotel staff are generally helpful but quite shy and reserved. They’re afraid of making mistakes when speaking English.

From my experience staying at countless hotels across China, here are the main things an American traveling to China needs to know:

• Bottled water is provided daily because the tap water is unsafe to drink
• Most hotel rooms don’t have a minibar (but amazing Chinese food won’t be far away)
• Front desk staff can barely crack a smile
• Western breakfast is usually terrible (no fresh dairy, no cereal, bad coffee etc), so choose the buffet option if there is one
• If the Wi-Fi password isn’t printed anywhere, it’s probably 12345678 or 88888888
• Other guests can be noisy so bring earplugs
• Many rooms and hallways smell like cigarette smoke
• Toilet tissue is low quality and they don’t provide enough for two people.

I’ve also found that many Chinese hotels don’t understand what privacy means.

Even if you hang the ‘do not disturb’ sign on your door, you may find that hotel staff have entered the room to clean and so on. This has happened to me countless times.

I hope all of this doesn’t sound too negative. I’m just trying to give an honest appraisal so you know what to expect.

(I’ve written a whole article called What are Chinese people like? if you want to dig deeper into the Chinese psyche.)

10. Good luck with food

The so-called vegetarian dumplings which had prawn in them. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Chinese food is delicious and so much better than the ‘fake’ Chinese food in the United States.

General Tso’s chicken? Errr, the Chinese have never heard of it!

If you’re part of a tour, then your guide will probably take your group to restaurants to eat. But if you go it alone, here’s my advice:

• Choose a restaurant with photos on the wall or menu, so you can point
• Use a translator on your phone, such as Google Translate (remember to get your VPN )
• Chinese people don’t understand allergies (they don’t exist in China) so if you’re allergic to something know exactly what you’re ordering
• Food will come out at any random order, so don’t expect the rice first
• Locals love spicy food so if you don’t want a scorching mouth, say “Bù yào là” or show them the Chinese characters (不要辣) on your phone.

This list is by no means exhaustive but hopefully it helps you a little!

And remember to get China travel insurance in case you get really sick from food or something else. Medical care isn’t cheap in China.

11. BYO toilet paper

A rare sight – a Chinese toilet with paper provided. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

And finally, the bathroom.

If you’re brave enough to use a Chinese squat toilet , then don’t forget to bring your own toilet paper. It’s not provided, except at hotels.

Similarly, you should BYO hand sanitizer because hand wash or soap isn’t provided in local loos.

It sounds funny to say it, but ‘holding on’ until you get back to your hotel is often your best option.

I hope you liked this special list with US citizens in mind. There’s some more general travel information below, otherwise check out my page on what not to do in China for more helpful advice. Have an amazing time in China!

Main image credit: Krakenimages.com on Shutterstock.

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Helpful resources.

Need help with your trip? Here are some helpful resources:

• See the China travel agency list if you’re looking to join tour groups
• Get a new U.S. passport if yours has less than six months on it
• Familiarize yourself with the food you cannot bring to China
• Don’t forget your China vaccinations especially if you’re going to rural areas or you’ll be around animals.

Assistance for U.S. citizens in China

Hopefully you won’t require consular services, but if you do then here are the contact details for the U.S. embassy in Beijing:

• Address: No. 55 An Jia Lou Road, Chaoyang, Beijing
• Phone: (+86) 10 8531 4000
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn

There are also consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Wuhan and Shenyang.

FAQ for Americans traveling to China

Are americans allowed to go to china right now.

They sure are. China is open and warmly welcomes American tourists.

Is China good for Americans?

Yes, China is good for Americans because it’s safe, there are lots of attractions, and things are cheap.

What should I know before traveling to China?

The main things are to get a VPN if you want to connect with the outside world via Wi-Fi, don’t tip anyone, download Alipay or WeChat for easy payments, and bring toilet tissue everywhere you go.

Is it safe to travel to China as an American?

Yes, China is safe for American citizens. Just remember to follow all local laws and you should be fine.

Is it safe to bring my phone to China?

Of course. In fact, you’ll need your phone to make payments in China, unless you only want to use cash which can be troublesome at small businesses.

Commercial relationship disclosure: The Helpful Panda has commercial arrangements with organizations that may appear on this page, such as affiliate links. See our terms for more info.

Mike Cairnduff

Mike has lived and worked in China, and has traveled extensively across the country. He loves Chinese food and has a keen interest in Chinese culture. You can follow him on X and LinkedIn .

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US issues level 3 travel advisory to China amid safety concerns. Here's what to know

Are you thinking about traveling to China to visit or study abroad? The U.S. government suggests reconsidering your trip for now. 

According to the U.S. Department of State , traveling to China is under a level 3 travel advisory , warning Americans to reconsider. The State Department has four warning levels. The fourth is “Do not travel.”

Is it safe to travel to China right now?

The U.S. is asking Americans to reconsider traveling to China due to various reasons, including concerns about health and safety, such as the prevalence of contagious diseases like COVID-19, as well as political tensions or security risks in certain regions.

As of April 12, there are some specific areas that the U.S. is asking people to reconsider travel to. Those areas include:

• Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions.
• Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
• Reconsider travel to the Macau SAR due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. 

Additionally, the U.S. government may issue travel advisories based on factors like civil unrest, natural disasters, or other hazards that could affect travelers' well-being.

Americans detained in China

Mark Swidan — a man from Houston, Texas — has been detained in China for over 10 years on drug charges. According to The Texas Tribune , Swidan was detained in China in 2012 while on a trip looking for materials for his home and business in Houston. Chinese authorities arrested him after his driver and translator were found in possession of drugs. The driver blamed Swidan, who is accused of trafficking and manufacturing methamphetamine.

A review of Swidan’s case said there were no drugs on him or in his hotel. Last year, the Republic of China’s Jiangmen Intermediate Court denied Swidan’s appeal and upheld his death penalty with a two-year suspended death sentence.

Other Americans considered wrongfully detained include Chinese American businessman Kai Li from Long Island, N.Y., and California pastor David Lin.

What countries have a Level 3 travel warning?

• Trinidad & Tobago
• El Salvador
• South Sudan
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Papua New Guinea
• Saudi Arabia

What countries have a Level 4 travel warning?

• Afghanistan
• Central African Republic
• North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)
• Burkina Faso

Traveling abroad? Here are some safety tips

U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the State Department’s free  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  and to prepare contingency plans for emergencies. 

Safety tips if you're traveling outside the U.S.:

• Don't travel alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Try not to be flashy.
• Avoid going to places at night, especially by yourself.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: US issues level 3 travel advisory to China amid safety concerns. Here's what to know

clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

Everything you need to know about traveling to China

China is finally reopening to foreign tourists after ending its ‘zero covid’ policies

Three years after shutting down to outsiders, China is finally beginning to issue visas to foreign tourists.

As of March 15 , the country will begin issuing all categories of visas, including those for tourism. China will allow visa-free entry to areas such as the island of Hainan and for cruise ships visiting Shanghai. Multiyear, multiple-entry visas issued before March 28, 2020, will be accepted by Chinese visa authorities as long as they’re still valid.

The country dropped its severe mandatory quarantine on arrival on Jan. 8 , and now only requires travelers to show negative results from a coronavirus test (PCR or rapid, depending on their country of origin) taken within 48 hours of departure.

It’s an exciting move for many American travelers.

“As soon as China relaxed its covid restrictions and started allowing their own citizens to travel, we had a huge influx of people wanting to start planning their trip,” John Rose, chief risk and security officer of the travel agency Altour , said in January.

Angela Hughes, owner of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel , has seen similar interest from clients, and is anticipating the country to become a “sizzling hot” destination once the doors fully open.

If you’re considering planning a trip to China, here’s what you need to know before you go.

The top travel destinations for 2023, according to experts

When can you start planning a trip to China?

Travelers interested in visiting China may apply for entry visas and start planning trips now.

Tourism experts started getting trips on the schedule even before the return of China’s tourist visas. The small-group tour company Intrepid Travel plans to host its first trip in mainland China since January 2020 by June. The company’s partners on the ground in China are actively preparing for the return of tourism, says Natalie Kidd, Intrepid’s Asia division managing director.

How to get refunds if your flight is canceled

Going as soon as China allows won’t be for everybody. Hughes says first-time visitors, families or more risk-averse travelers may want to wait until 2024, when the situation becomes more stable. More adventurous travelers are another story. “I’m definitely going to go right when it opens,” Hughes said in January.

Although China is open for tourism, Catherine Heald, CEO of the luxury travel company Remote Lands , is bracing for more complications.

Citing concerns like limited international commercial flights into China and remaining pandemic restrictions, “we think it will be a slower process than what we witnessed in Japan, Thailand and other parts of Asia,” she said in an email.

What to know about coronavirus protocols in China

With the end of its “zero covid” strategy, China has dropped significant measures like its frequent coronavirus testing and digital health codes for locals, or presenting negative covid tests or health certificates to travel within the country. China is also easing restrictions on the number of flights allowed in.

However, the U.S. Embassy in China warns the country’s policies are subject to change at any time.

For now, the main pandemic restriction in place is for travelers. According to a March 14 news conference from China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin, China has begun accepting negative results from rapid tests (depending on your country of origin — at this time, Americans should default to PCR testing ). Tests must be taken within 48 hours of departure to China. Kidd says masks are still recommended in China, but not mandated in public areas (except for places like hospitals and clinics) and no quarantines or isolation are required if someone does get covid-19.

This airline booking hack is dividing the internet

What are the risks of visiting as soon as possible?

As of March, the U.S. State Department has a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for China (along with Hong Kong and Macao) due to the “arbitrary enforcement of local laws,” its website reads . Travelers considering a trip to China should refer to the State Department’s entire travel information page for updates on travel advisories and country information.

Neil Slabbert, World Travel Protection ’s chief medical officer for the Asia-Pacific region, says travelers need to be aware of the potential of lockdowns by local authorities that can make accessing health care difficult. There were also reports last spring of parents and children being separated if one or the other tested positive for covid. Travelers should prepare accordingly, and have emergency plans in place (like where they’ll get food, water and medicine) in case of lockdowns or infection.

Rose says those considering a trip should keep an eye on the information we have available at the time of booking, throughout your planning and just before you travel. Don’t forget what reopening looked like for other regions in 2021 and 2022. Countries implemented and removed restrictions “very, very quickly” in reaction to covid cases, and China may be no different.

Hughes says such risks make travel insurance a nonnegotiable for anyone going to China. “Every single person traveling internationally right now needs to have a complete policy above and beyond their credit card’s,” she said, recommending the companies she uses, Allianz and AIG .

What I learned on a two-week trip to Vietnam and Cambodia

What travel will be like once you get there

Like every place in the infancy of its pandemic reopening, China won’t be back to “normal” for the first returning travelers.

Kidd says China is still the same amazing destination with iconic sites and fantastic food, but tourism won’t immediately be the well-oiled machine it once was. Intrepid’s vendors have noted that, as in the rest of the world, many people left China’s tourism industry, and there will be lot of new people entering the field as businesses staff up again.

“We’re having the dialogue that we had two years ago when Europe opened up now with China,” Hughes said.

No matter the method, Kidd says there’s one big perk of returning early: being able to see the country’s highlights with fewer visitors.

More spring travel tips

Trends: Cheaper spring break | Cool all-inclusives | Let ChatGPT plan your day | Is it safe to go to Mexico? | Book a free night in Sicily

The basics: Tip without cash | Traveling with kids | Decide where to stay | A pre-trip checklist of house chores | How to get your passport | Plan a ski trip | Eat without feeling terrible | Budget for your next trip | Plan a cheaper Disney trip

Flying: Fly like a decent human being | How to set airfare price alerts | Flying with an injury | PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR | Can I fly with weed? | AirTag your luggage | Airport parking 101 | Deal with airport crowds | Why Stalk airfare after booking

Driving: 9 tips for road tripping with a baby | Try the Airbnb of rental cars | Rent an EV | Do I need an international license to drive abroad? | Avoid big rental car fees

Greener travel: Bike to the airport | How environmentalists travel | How to find ‘greener’ flights | Make your travel better for the planet

Pets: How to travel with pets | Why the pet fee? | Pet flying 101 | Alternatives to flying with your pet

In case of emergency: Manage airport disasters | Your flight is canceled | How to get a human on the phone | What to do if your car gets stuck | Find your lost luggage | How to get a refund for a canceled flight | Deal with a bad hotel room | When you’re bumped off your flight | If you get rebooked without your family | What are my rebooking rights? | Recover a lost item at TSA, the airport or your flight

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• Section 10 - Cambodia
• Section 10 - India

CDC Yellow Book 2024

Author(s): Sarah Borwein, Kate Gaynor

Destination Overview

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map 10-12 China

View Larger Figure

Box 10-02 Popular tourist destinations in China

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

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

Vaccine Quality & Availability in China

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

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

Bloodborne Pathogens

Hepatitis b.

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

Enteric Infections & Diseases

Brucellosis.

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

Hepatitis E

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

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

Travelers’ Diarrhea

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

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

Typhoid Fever

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

Respiratory Infections & Diseases

Coronavirus disease 2019.

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

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

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

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

Tuberculosis

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

Sexually Transmitted Infections & HIV

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

Soil- & Waterborne Infections

Schistosomias & leptospirosis.

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

Vectorborne Diseases

Chikungunya & dengue.

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

Japanese Encephalitis

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

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

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

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

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

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

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

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

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

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

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

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

Animal bites

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

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

Elevation & Terrain of Giant Panda Reserves

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

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

Road travel risks apply to these more remote reserves.

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

Food & Water Precautions and Sanitation

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

Flush toilets are unlikely to be available.

Air Pollution

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

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

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

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

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

Altitude Illness

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

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

Animal Bites & Rabies

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

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

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

Natural Disasters

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

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

Vitamin D Deficiency

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

Wet Markets

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

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

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

Political Unrest

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

Traffic-Related Injuries

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

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

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

Electronic Bicycles

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

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

Blood & Blood Product Safety

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

Emergency Medical Services

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

Medical Tourism

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

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

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

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

Bibliography

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

 Davis XM, MacDonald S, Borwein S, Freedman DO, Kozarsky PE, von Sonnenburg F, et al. Health risks in travelers to China: the GeoSentinel experience and implications for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2008;79(1):4–8.

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

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

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

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

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Travel China Cheaper

Travel China the smart way! Expert tips and travel advice for China tourists and expats.

PLANNING A TRIP TO CHINA? Start Here

China Travel Advisory | What This Means for 2024

January 20, 2024 By Josh Summers

The U.S. State Department issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for citizens traveling to China starting in 2019 and continuing into 2020. The message was simple: exercise increased caution as you plan your trip to China . But what exactly does a travel advisory mean, and how could it affect your scheduled trip to China? Let me share with you a few thoughts.

Travel Advisory 2020 Update

Due to recent events, this China travel advisory has been increased to Level 4. Instead of updating this entire article, I recommend you read this update on China travel due to the coronavirus .

First of all, it should be noted that travel advisories are a dime-a-dozen. They’re issued all the time and the U.S. State Department lists literally hundreds of them on their travel advisories page .

But what about a “Level 2”? Isn’t that serious?

Let’s start by examining how the U.S. State Department breaks down their travel advisories:

• Level 1 Advisory: Exercise Normal Precautions
• Level 2 Advisory: Exercise Increased Caution
• Level 3 Advisory: Reconsider Travel
• Level 4 Advisory: Do Not Travel

While we should certainly take notice of this new China travel advisory , you might be surprised to learn that the level 2 travel advisory isn’t uncommon. Other countries that hold this status include:

• The United Kingdom
• Netherlands

I doubt travel to any of these countries would be particularly dangerous for travelers, would you?

So that leaves us with one question I want to discuss today:

What is happening in China right now that warrants a Level 2 Travel Advisory and should I still continue with my travel plans?

What Does the China Travel Advisory Mean?

Per the email sent by the U.S. State Department in early 2019 and again in 2020, a China travel advisory was issued because of the following:

China has begun arbitrary enforcement of local laws as well as special restrictions on dual U.S.-Chinese nationals.

That sounds serious – and it is – but this is something that specifically affects two groups of people:

• US citizens of Chinese descent as well as…
• Expats/Business people .

The average tourist is not affected by this China travel advisory.

It may not come as a surprise to some, but China is very petty when it comes to international politics. The slightest bit of shame caused by another country makes China “offended” and they have been known to retaliate against expats living in their country by interrogating them, harassing them or giving them exit bans.

Tourists are rarely caught up in all of this.

Travelers are seen as a boost to the local economy and are welcomed for short periods of time. The only exception to this are the tourists that do something stupid, such as breaking a law , engaging in a brawl , or trying to start a protest .

Of course, there is a whole different set of rules for one particular group of people.

Special Attention: US Citizens of Chinese Descent

Whether you’re a U.S.-born citizen or you hold U.S.-China dual citizenship, those travelers of Chinese descent should heed a special warning.

Here’s the deal.

As a mostly homogeneous country, China has a hard time separating ethnicity from citizenship. In some ways, if you’re of Chinese descent, they think you belong to China.

It doesn’t matter what passport you hold.

This isn’t to say that you should walk around in fear if you look like a Chinese person. You should, however, exercise a much higher level of caution. This is especially true if you plan to travel to sensitive regions such as Tibet or Xinjiang .

Don’t put too much faith in your passport.

China has become such a big world power that they’re not very intimidated by the fact that you’re a legal citizens of another country. The majority of the time China does nothing more than question and release the people it detains, but one thing has become clear:

Your State Department will be powerless to do much to help you.

As a US citizen of Chinese decent, this China travel advisory is slightly more impactful. It’s a word of caution, though, not a major red flag.

Takeaway: What Should You Do?

I want to be transparent with you about the risks associated with travel, but I know that in doing so, I also run the risk of scaring you out of visiting China altogether. Let me reassure you.

If we step back and look at the China travel advisory levels again, you see that the second level really isn’t that scary.

The State Department isn’t asking you to reconsider your travel or telling you not to travel, they’re telling you to exercise caution .

And guess what.. .you should be exercising caution as you travel no matter where in the world you are!

You’re more likely to be a victim of theft than a victim of police harassment in China. For this reason, I recommend you review these 8 China travel safety tips as well as this list of common travel mistakes that most people make.

Oh yea…and use common sense . Don’t steal from a store; refrain from punching somebody in the face; don’t take pictures of the police.

Just relax, don’t freak out about this China travel advisory and enjoy your trip 🙂

Further Reading & Resources

Traveling or Moving to China Soon?

Download "44 Tips You MUST Know Before Traveling to China". These simple but often overlooked tips could make or break your trip !

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About Josh Summers

Josh is the founder of TravelChinaCheaper.com who has been living in China with his family since 2006. Over that period of time he has traveled by plane, train, car, motorcycle and even camel to explore almost every corner of the country.

Reader Interactions

January 4, 2019 at 5:29 pm

GOod stuff. I’ve been to China 5 times starting in 2012. Many things have changed, some for the better some for the worse. It’s a great country, i love it! I would not hesitate to travel there tomorrow. I THINK china is not for a novice traveler. It has gotten more difficult, exchanging money accessing money. But i see more street signs in England, even in the eastern provinces.

January 4, 2019 at 6:47 pm

Great info Thanks! More relaxed for future trips

January 5, 2019 at 1:29 pm

Good article Josh, thanks for the info. I agree with your findings completely. my wife is Chinese and we own a home in Tieling in N.E. China. There are not many foreigners that come to Tieling and when I am there at 6′-2″ tall “I stand out in the crowd” . The local Police office is just a block away from our home, at times it can be frustrating, but they have been very courteous to me and as helpful as possible. I hold a Q2 visa which allows me to stay in china for up to 180 days at a time. I always carry my marriage booklet and I have my home address saved to my cell phone in Chinese, this has always been handy clearing immigration when I enter the country. My wife and I have traveled extensively thru china and my only recommendation is to make sure you understand the rules so to speak and follow them. Once again Josh thanks for the info. I very much enjoy your articles. Happy new Year and have a great Spring Festival.

January 5, 2019 at 1:56 pm

Thanks, David! I appreciate hearing your experience and I’m glad the articles have been helpful 🙂

January 7, 2019 at 11:08 am

Hi Josh, Thanks for sharing your take on the current mood. I did travel to China this year. It was an amazing experience and would encourage others to consider China a destination. With the understanding of the country’s rules and customs as you outlined.

I came home with a greater sense of appreciation for the people and the landscapes and treasures of an ancient civilization amongst the hustle of modern day.

Also wanted to thank you for your tips and info you sent to me prior to my trip. I wish you Happy New Year and safe travels to you and your family for 2019!

January 8, 2019 at 9:16 am

Thank you, Judy! So glad you had a good experience in China 🙂

January 15, 2019 at 11:28 am

Hello Josh, thank you for this article it helps a lot considering we are scheduled to fly into Beijing this April with the whole family (3 Kids). The wife was worried when she saw the travel advisory but this DEFINITELY put her at ease. Question for you. We will be taking advantage of the 144 Hr Free visa exception when we get there and would like to see what your thoughts about that is. Should i just get the full blown visa to avoid possible MISUNDERSTANDINGS? We certainly qualify for the 144 hr free visa but I feel nervous. Thanks and Great job with the page

January 15, 2019 at 7:28 pm

Thanks, Chester! I’m glad this was helpful for your wife. Concerning your thoughts on the 144-hr transit visa, I think you should be fine, but if you have any misgivings whatsoever, the safe bet is to get a traditional visa. I can’t make that call for you, unfortunately, but I can say that there have been some people who have been surprised with problems trying to get the transit visa.

March 2, 2019 at 10:16 pm

Hi Josh, I was born in america and feel very american, but my parents were born in china and, of course, I look quite chinese. My husband is peruvian, and one of my children looks chinese, while one looks more indistinct. I was planning to travel to china this june 2019, but i am worried about the travel advisory and whether the chinese officials would harrass us or prevent us from leaving the country. plus, because we are a mixed race couple, i am not sure how that would come across. we were planning to do a tour with china discovery so the plan is to have a tour guide with us the whole time, but i am about to call the whole thing off because i am worried about the travel advisory. what do you think about my situation? should we call off our travel plans?

March 5, 2019 at 7:58 am

Hi Cindy, I appreciate your concern but I don’t believe you have anything to worry about. Mixed race marriages are still somewhat new in China but it’s becoming more and more accepted. If you’re in the big cities as a tourist, I don’t think you’ll notice any extra attention.

As for being of Chinese descent, as long as your parents haven’t broken the law and you don’t plan to break the law, the Chinese have no reason to detain you for even a minute.

August 15, 2019 at 5:10 am

this is a well informed artiCle and i thank you for it. My husband and i will be traveling to china in the up coming wEeks with my father and brother. It caused My husband some conceRn when the advisory went in effect back in january. As we are of chinese descent. We will be in guangzhou one of the bigger cities. My dad says there’s nothing to worry abOut, we’ll be visiting a few of my Dads friends while over there.

September 29, 2019 at 8:21 am

Hi jOsh, Thank you for the ARTICLE…it has put my mind at ease a bit. My husband and i along with our adult children are PLANNING on taking our 14 year Old adopted chinese daughter back to china for a Heritage Tour with China Ties program. Do you BELIEVE we’ll encounter any issues as our daughter is Chinese and has US citizenship and has US passport. She dOes not have dual citizenship.

September 30, 2019 at 1:55 am

No, she should not have any issues while traveling with you. Enjoy your trip and don’t forget to grab a copy of my China travel handbook !

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China Travel Surges for May Holiday but Consumers Remain Wary

FILE PHOTO: A woman helps a child to climb the stairs amid tourists visiting the Badaling section of the Great Wall, in Beijing, China October 1, 2023. REUTERS/Florence Lo/File Photo

(This May 1 story has been refiled to say 'new cities' instead of 'lower-tier cities' in paragraph 13)

By Sophie Yu and Alessandro Diviggiano

(Reuters) - Travel by rail and car across China surged on Wednesday, the first day of a major public holiday, as consumers remained focused on keeping expenses down in a challenged economy.

In the run-up to the five-day holiday that began with May Day, domestic airline fares were falling and forecasts suggested more travelers were opting to drive rather than fly, or had booked early to save.

Travel of all kinds has rebounded since China lifted strict COVID control measures at the end of 2022, but consumer spending on those trips has failed to keep up, limiting the boost to the broader economy.

China has set an economic growth target for 2024 of around 5%, which many analysts say will be a challenge to achieve without much more stimulus.

China's manufacturing and services activity both expanded at a slower pace in April, official surveys showed on Tuesday, suggesting some loss of momentum.

"There is indeed significant pressure," Lin Yu, 38, who was visiting Beijing from Hangzhou. "Every family's situation is different, and it clearly also depends on the industry you work in."

By the fourth week of April, the average price for an economy flight in China had dropped 38% from the first week of the month to the equivalent of just under $97, according to VariFlight, an aviation data service provider.

"Chinese airlines must adapt to these changes," said Zheng Hongfeng, VariFlight, who said the fare declines showed travelers were booking early in a highly competitive market.

About 58 million cars are expected to be on roads every day during the holiday while railways carried more than 20 million passengers on Wednesday alone, state media reported.

The number of trips taken during the first quarter was up almost 17 percent from a year earlier, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

A three-day public holiday during April was the first time average spending per trip rose beyond 2019 levels. By that measure, spending was up then just over 1%.

Some companies have shifted to try to appeal to consumers watching their spending as they watch the road.

Yum China, the operator of KFC in China, said this week 30% of its new stores would be in new cities or roadside locations like highway rest stops.

Same-store sales at those locations were up 20% during Lunar New Year in February, Yum China CEO Joey Wat said.

"They're key to capturing the spike in travel volume during holidays," she said.

(Writing by Kevin Krolicki, editing by Christina Fincher)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Travel precautions in place following last week's deadly highway collapse

Following a highway collapse in the city of Meizhou on Wednesday that killed 48 people and injured 30 others, Guangdong province has launched a multipronged response to ensure the safety of residents and travelers during the May Day holiday's peak return travel period.

A special task force headed by Governor Wang Weizhong was established on Saturday to investigate the cause of the collapse and provide support to the injured.

Meanwhile, torrential rain that battered the southern province over the weekend has begun to ease, but concerns remain due to the potential for secondary disasters caused by saturated soil.

The Department of Natural Resources warned of a heightened risk of landslides and flooding as a result of the sustained downpours. A province-wide inspection focusing on areas with high geological risk factors, such as mountains, slopes and cliffs, was launched on Saturday.

The Department of Transport has undertaken a similar inspection of highways, railways and waterways since Thursday. Seven working groups from the provincial transport authority were deployed to guide and supervise the inspection process.

As regions across China experience peak traffic flows during the holiday return period, authorities are urging travelers to prioritize safety, particularly on rainy days.

"Heavy rainfall can make roads slippery, increasing vehicle braking distance and the risk of losing control," cautioned Feng Lei, a senior engineer from the Public Meteorological Service Center.

She advised people to pay close attention to the potential impact of secondary disasters like landslides and highway collapses on driving safety, especially in areas previously hit by heavy rain.

Torrential rain lashed multiple cities in Guangdong over the weekend, with Zhongshan and Zhuhai hit the hardest.

In Zhuhai, traffic police closed off a section of highway linking the city to Jiangmen after detecting a landslide safety risk.

Multiple towns in Zhongshan have reported flooding since Saturday. By Saturday night, 42 fire trucks and 19 boats had been sent to help and evacuate 462 residents.

One resident, Lin Liting, said the downpour was so heavy that many people did not dare go out to shop for groceries on Saturday.

"My cousin, who drove to Zhongshan for sightseeing the previous day, had to start his journey back one day earlier due to the downpour," she said.

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More From Forbes

The world’s 15 safest cities (2 u.s. cities made the list), ranked in a new report.

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Searching for the safest places to travel? Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) recently unveiled its annual State of Travel Insurance Safest Destinations report , which ranks the world’s 15 safest cities to travel. This year, two U.S. cities made the list, with Honolulu named the safest city in the world.

“BHTP’s State of Travel Insurance Safest Destinations report is unique in its ability to pair firsthand, survey respondent experiences with valuable third-party sources in order to identify its annual list of Safest Destinations,” Carol Mueller, vice president at BHTP told me in an interview. “Only travelers who have actually been to the cities are allowed to rank them on a variety of safety measures, using their first-hand knowledge as a yardstick.”

In addition to surveying actual travelers who have visited the cities, BHTP analyzes several third-party data sources—including the U.S. State Department, The Economist and more—to evaluate safety concerns such as terrorism, weather emergencies, health measures and the safety of underrepresented groups.

Over the past four years, the report has witnessed notable changes, reflecting the evolving travel landscape. While Scandinavian nations and Northern Europe traditionally dominated the list, this year’s report showcases a diverse lineup, with Asian and South American cities making their mark.

Honolulu, which has been named the safest city in the world on a new report.

For 2024, Honolulu claims the coveted first spot. Despite its vulnerability to natural disasters, Honolulu impresses travelers with its overall safety, making it an ideal travel destination. “Even Honolulu’s lowest marks are the highest of any destination in that category,” says Mueller. “Though the island’s volcanic origin and location in the Pacific make it an obvious target for a variety of natural disasters, from wildfires to typhoons, surveyed travelers perceive Honolulu as an incredibly safe destination for their tropical vacations.”

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Coming in second on the list is Montreal. The Canadian city is recognized—above all—for its transportation safety, where it gets the highest marks. One concern, according to BHTP: wildfires, since smoke from fires in northern Quebec can drift down to Montreal, impacting the air quality.

A view of of Old Montreal, which comes in second on the list of safest cities.

Reykjavik, Iceland comes in number three on the list of safest cities. According to BHTP, its high ranking is due to its excellent scores for women, people-of-color and LGBTQ+ safety, as well as safety from terrorism.

Rounding out the top five is Sydney, Australia (which receives consistent safety marks from travelers) and Amsterdam in the Netherlands (which ranks highly for safety for women, LGBTQ+ travelers and people of color).

The only other U.S. city on the list of world’s safest cities is Orlando, Florida, which comes in at number 15. Renowned for its theme parks and family-friendly attractions, Orlando gets high ratings for transportation safety and safety against terrorism. “While we’d caution travelers against chasing golf balls near Lake Jesup, which is home to about 10,000 alligators, Orlando has high ratings for transportation safety and safety against terrorism,” says Mueller. “This should come as no surprise—you rarely hear about disasters aboard the Walt Disney World Railroad.”

The skyline of Orlando, Florida, which is on the list of the safest cities in the world in 2024.

As travelers navigate the intricacies of safety, the report also offers insights into each city’s unique challenges and precautions. From concerns about wildfires in Honolulu to political demonstrations in Barcelona, travelers can make informed decisions to ensure their safety during their journeys.

Beyond the overall rankings, the report also ranks cities according to the nuanced safety concerns of different traveler segments, from millennials to LGBTQ+ travelers prioritizing inclusive destinations.

Read on for the lists of the world’s safest cities to travel, as well as lists from the perspective of various traveler segments.

An aerial view of Honolulu and Diamond Head.

The World’s Safest Cities To Travel in 2024

In addition to being ranked top safest city overall, Honolulu was also named the world’s safest city ... [+] for women, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC travelers.

Safest Cities for Women/LGBTQ+/BIPOC Travelers

Seoul is named the world's safest city for Millennial travelers.

Safest Cities for Millennial Travelers

According to BHTP, Millennials (ages 25-44) tend to travel farther afield. “Hence, the high ratings for Singapore, Dubai and Seoul,” say the authors of the report.

Copenhagen is named the safest city for mature travelers.

Safest Cities for Mature Travelers

“Beijing’s presence here is a little surprising,” say the authors of the report. “But everything else is as expected.”

Seoul is named the top city for families. Pictured here: walking on the grouds of the Gyeongbokgung ... [+] Palace.

Safest Cities for Families

“Parents find Asian destinations safe,” say the authors of the report. “Hence, four of them made their top 10.”

Island life and island colors in San Juan, Puerto Rico, named the safest city for LGBTQ+ travelers.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

“Puerto Rico’s top city doesn’t show up anywhere else but here,” say the authors of the report. “Also note that despite discriminatory laws towards LGBTQ+ travelers, they still consider Dubai to be an extremely safe destination.”

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2 giant pandas from China to arrive at San Diego Zoo under conservation partnership

The giant pandas are named Yun Chuan and Xin Bao.

A pair of giant pandas are set to travel from China to the San Diego Zoo this summer, marking the first time the Southern California wildlife facility will house giant pandas since 2019.

On Monday, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance announced that care team leaders recently traveled to meet the two giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, ahead of their journey to San Diego.

"It was an honor to see Yun Chuan and Xin Bao in person and meet our conservation partners caring for them at the Wolong and Bifengxia Panda Bases," Dr. Megan Owen, vice president of conservation science at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, said in a press release .

MORE: Red panda discovered in luggage in Bankok airport bust

Yun Chuan, a nearly five-year-old male panda, who is described as being "mild-mannered, gentle and lovable," has a deep connection with the San Diego Zoo, according to the alliance.

His mother, Zhen Zhen, was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007 and lived at the facility for 23 years.

"Yun Chuan's lineage has deep connections to the San Diego Zoo and we're excited by the prospect of caring for them," Owen said in the release.

Xin Bao is a nearly four-year-old female giant panda who was born at the Wolong Shenshuping Panda Base, according to the release, which notes she is a "gentle and witty introvert with a sweet round face and big ears."

The exact date of the pandas' arrival at the San Diego Zoo has not been announced, but the alliance is looking forward to a prospective arrival this summer, according to the release.

The San Diego Zoo has a longstanding partnership with leading conservation institutions in China to transport, care for and research giant pandas that spans nearly three decades.

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Dubbed "panda diplomacy," the China Wildlife and Conservation Association has transported pandas to U.S. facilities since 1972, according to the release.

The main focus of research includes giant panda reproductive behavior and physiology, nutritional requirements and habitat needs, according to the alliance.

Giant pandas are the rarest member of the bear family and among the world's most threatened animals, according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) .

MORE: National Zoo saying goodbye to China's famous pandas

Globally, there are only 1,864 giant pandas that remain in the wild, according to WWF, which notes, the bears mainly reside in forests high in the mountains of southwest China, where their diets subsist almost entirely on bamboo.

Giant pandas must consume 26 to 84 pounds of bamboo every day, making bamboo conservation in San Diego essential to care for the animals.

"Our partnership over the decades has served as a powerful example of how, when we work together, we can achieve what was once thought to be impossible," Owen said in the release.

"We have a shared goal of creating a sustainable future for giant pandas."

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Politics live: Sunak accused of 'hiding from voters' - as SNP names new leader without contest

The SNP has named John Swinney as its new leader to replace Humza Yousaf. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak has insisted the general election is "not a foregone conclusion" despite the Tories taking a hammering in last week's local polls.

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• Vote 2024:   Council results in full  |  Mayoral results in full

The results of the local elections made for grim reading for the Conservative Party.

Last Thursday, polls opened in 107 English councils, with thousands of seats up for grabs. Ultimately, the Tories lost 474 seats and 12 councils, while Labour gained 186 and eight respectively.

You can see the results in full below:

There were also a number of mayoral elections.

In total, 11 mayors were elected. Here are the results in full:

• Tees Valley, Conservative Ben Houchen re-elected
• York and North Yorkshire, Labour's David Skaith 
• North East, Labour's Kim McGuinness 
• East Midlands, Labour's Claire Ward
• Liverpool City Region, Labour's Steve Rotheram re-elected
• South Yorkshire, Labour's Oliver Coppard re-elected 
• Greater Manchester, Labour's Andy Burnham re-elected 
• West Yorkshire, Labour's Tracey Brabin re-elected 
• London, Labour's Sadiq Khan re-elected 
• Salford, Labour's Paul Dennett re-elected 
• West Midlands, Labour's Richard Parker defeats Conservative incumbent Andy Street

Two of Westminster's best-connected journalists, Sky News's Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard, guide you through their top predictions for the next seven days in British politics. 

Following the local and mayoral elections, Jack and Sam discuss how Rishi Sunak will try to get back onto the front foot and whether the Conservative rebels will continue to plot against him.     

They also predict that the country will come out of recession and look forward to a new SNP leader in Scotland following the resignation of Humza Yousaf. 

 Email with your thoughts and rate how their predictions play out:  [email protected]  or  [email protected]          

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has joined his shadow foreign secretary David Lammy in warning against an Israeli offensive in Rafah ( see 14.12 post )

Israel has repeatedly been urged by Western allies not to go ahead with the operation, but it looks set to take place in what the country's government has described as "specified areas".

It is telling Palestinians sheltering in Rafah, many of whom have already evacuated from their homes elsewhere, to move to a "humanitarian area".

Sir Keir said: "With more than a million Palestinian civilians sheltering in Rafah, an Israeli offensive must not go ahead.

"There must be an immediate ceasefire, the immediate release of all hostages, and unimpeded aid into Gaza that can be delivered regularly, quickly and safely."

You can follow more on this in our Middle East live blog:

Andy Street, the defeated former West Midlands mayor, has thanked people for their support since losing his job over the weekend.

He was beaten by Labour's candidate in one of the most bruising results for the Tories across last week's elections.

Mr Street was quick to warn his party not to take the wrong message from his defeat, telling Rishi Sunak to guide the Conservatives back towards the centre rather than further to the right.

Posting on X (formerly Twitter) today, Mr Street said he had been "slightly taken aback by the number of messages" he'd received.

"Your support means a lot to me at a testing time," he said.

Labour has told Rishi Sunak to "grow a backbone" and set a date for the general election after the Tories took a battering in last week's council and mayoral votes.

Polls suggest the Conservatives, who also lost the Blackpool South by-election to the main opposition, are on track to be out of government the next time the country gets a say.

But there's no imminent sign Rishi Sunak will call an election, with most still expecting him to old out until at least October.

He has insisted the Tories still have a chance (see previous post).

A Labour spokesperson said: "The local elections sent a clear message that people across the country are demanding change, and only the Labour Party will deliver that. 

"Rishi Sunak should stop hiding from voters and allow them an opportunity to cast their verdict on 14 years of Tory failure."

The Liberal Democrats have today said they will try to force the issue by going for a vote of no confidence in the government ( see 12.45 post ).

But as they're not the main opposition, this motion would need to be granted parliamentary time by the government.

Sky News understands there are no plans to give it time.

 Rishi Sunak has spoken on camera for the first time since all the results from last week's elections filtered through.

Despite losing hundreds of council seats, several mayors, and a parliamentary by-election he said he's "determined more than ever" to show the country "we are making progress on the areas that matter".

He pointed to the national insurance tax cuts and the Rwanda deportation scheme.

And he insisted the general election "isn't a foregone conclusion", pointing to a Sky News forecast suggesting a hung parliament is the most likely outcome - not a Labour majority.

"And that's why I'm absolutely determined to fight incredibly hard for what I believe and for the future country that I want to build," he said.

"And that's what I'm going to do fight for this country, fight for the things I believe and deliver for every one of the things that matter to them."

New SNP leader John Swinney will "create division" in Scotland.

That's the view of the leader of the Scottish Conservatives, the government's official opposition at Holyrood.

Douglas Ross told Sky News that Mr Swinney, who is set to replace Humza Yousaf as first minister, would not deliver on the country's priorities because of his "nationalist" stance.

"The slogan for his campaign was 'uniting for independence' - not for improving the NHS, our education system…. No, John Swinney has decided he wants to unite for independence because as a nationalist he wants to separate Scotland from the rest of the UK and create division."

Tories will be 'strong opposition'

Mr Ross said Scotland's public services had "suffered" during the SNP's 17 years in power, most of which Mr Swinney was in the cabinet.

He said the incoming first minister should remove the government position of minister for independence, and also called for him to show more support for the oil and gas industry.

Mr Ross was also bullish about the Tories' election hopes in Scotland, saying the party has a "strong record" and has been a "strong opposition" that will rival the SNP in a number of seats.

Polls suggest Labour are on course for a significant recovery in Scotland, potentially helping Sir Keir Starmer become prime minister.

New SNP leader John Swinney has taken questions from the media in Glasgow, including our  Scotland correspondent  Connor Gillies .

He asked him how he'll seek to unify the SNP, and also about what role Kate Forbes will play in his government.

Ms Forbes ran against Humza Yousaf in last year's contest and was widely expected to take on Mr Swinney this time, but chose not to.

On the first point, Mr Swinney vows his government will host "proper discussions" to best take on the "complex policy challenges we face".

He adds: "I want to make sure I have a strong team able to lead the Scottish government."

Ms Forbes, a former finance minister, "will have a big role to play".

The new cabinet will be "individually and collectively responsible for the prospects of the SNP government, the SNP, and the country, and that's a great privilege, and we all share it".

Answering a later question about Humza Yousaf, he refused to confirm whether the outgoing first minister will be offered a new cabinet job.

John Swinney has given his first news briefing since being named as the SNP's new leader this lunchtime ( see 12.16 post ).

He was elected without a contest as no other candidates stood.

Here are the key points from his speech:

• He began by paying tribute to Humza Yousaf, saying he has "conducted himself with grace and dignity", highlighting his "moral leadership" on the Israel-Gaza conflict;
• Mr Swinney noted the "controversy" around him being the sole candidate to replace Mr Yousaf, but claimed it's a sign the SNP is "coming back together";
• He vowed to appoint "an inclusive and unified team" that will help the party recover from "a rough time";
• But he pointed to the party's record in government, including free university tuition and a "massive expansion" of childcare;
• Mr Swinney said he will lead for everyone in Scotland and wants to create a country with good jobs, climate protections, and one where vulnerable people are protected;
• He said he is willing to work with opposition parties, but the SNP still has a mandate to govern following calls for him to call an election;
• And he reiterated his commitment to independence, citing the cost of living crisis and Brexit as "examples of Westminster decisions that are bad for Scotland", and wants to "persuade" people to the cause;
• But his priority will be "the economy, jobs the cost of living, the NHS, schools, public services, and the climate crisis", and calls on "everyone in our country" to "join me" to help deliver.

Outgoing Scottish first minister Humza Yousaf has congratulated John Swinney as his successor as SNP leader.

"Let's get behind John and his team so they can deliver for Scotland," he said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

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