China / Travel Information / Immigration Regulations

Tourists wishing to come to China may register at a China travel service in their own country who will organize a tour and arrange to receive them. Alternatively, they may arrange and organize tours themselves. According to related stipulations of the Administration of the People's Republic of China on Foreigners Entering and Leaving China, overseas tourists should apply for visas at China's foreign affairs offices, consulates or other organizations abroad authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A group of over four tourists to China can apply for a group tourist visa which can be handled by travel service organizing groups.

People coming to China from countries which have visa agreements with China are handled according to agreements (such as agreements for tourist groups exempt from visas)

All tourists wishing to visit Tibet should obtain visas beforehand after gaining the agreement from the Tibet Tourism Administration or ifs overseas offices.

Foreign tourists to Shenzhen, Zhuhai and Xiamen Special Economic Zones can directly apply for "visas to special zones" from the visa office at the above mentioned city offices authorized by the Ministry of Public Security. Those wishing to do business, to tour, or to visit relatives in Hainan Province for less than 15 days can obtain temporary visas at Haikou or Sanya ports. Visas are not necessary for foreign tourist groups in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region wishing to travel to Shenzhen Special Economic Zone within 72 hours.

Foreigners with tourist visas must pass through Chinese ports open to visitors from abroad or appointed ports, and carry out necessary procedures. Tourists from abroad cannot enter regions not open to foreigners. Foreigners entering these places to handle public affairs must apply for a Foreigner's Travel Permit beforehand at the entry and departure departments of local public security organizations. The Foreigner's Travel Permit is used together with the passport.

Foreigners visiting China with travel permits cannot engage in activities that do not conform to their status in China, such as employment, study or reporting, etc. Foreigners in China must observe Chinese laws and regulations and respect Chinese customs and habits.

Foreigners in China wishing to travel by their own transport must receive approval from the organs in charge before entering China. These include bicycle, motorcycle, automobile, ship or airplane.

Tourists from abroad who would like to continue traveling in China after expiration of their visa should go to the local entry and departure administrative departments of the public security organs to obtain an extension prior to expire of their existing visa.

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