china travel requirements philippines

China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated August 29, 2023)

Starting from August 30, all travelers entering China will no longer need to undergo any COVID-19 testing.   It means the entry process goes back the same as before the pandemic.

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

From March 15, anyone with a valid Chinese visa (including visas applied for before March 28, 2020, like a China tourist visa) can enter China without needing to apply for a new one.

All types of visa applications have also been resumed like tourist visas (L visas), and visa-free policies have been reinstated.

If you want to arrange a private tour, even tentatively, simply contact us . You'll receive a 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights if you cancel up to three weeks before departure. ( More details⇒ )

International travelers bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

Content Preview

• What Ways to Enter China
• Do I Still Need a PCR Test to Enter China
• Hong Kong/Macau Travel Restriction

International Flights to China

What to expect when traveling in china, best times to travel to china, 8 ways to enter china: all open now.

Since China has fully permitted visa applications, there are now several ways to enter the country.

If you still hold a valid Chinese visa (any type including a tourist visa, 10-year visa, etc.), you can use it to enter China.

If you don't have a Chinese visa or your visa has expired, you can apply for a new one. All visas can now be applied for, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, and so on. (International visitors can apply for a tourist visa to the Chinese Mainland in Hong Kong.)

For the documents required for a visa application, you can refer to the information given by a Chinese embassy/consulate . Please submit your application at least two months in advance.

To apply for a tourist visa (L visa), you will be asked to provide an invitation letter issued by a Chinese travel agency or individual or round-trip air tickets and hotel bookings.

When booking a private tour with us, we can provide you with an invitation letter, which is one more thing we do to make your travel more convenient, giving you more flexibility with your air tickets and hotel bookings.

Now it is very easy to apply for a visa . You can easily apply by yourself without an intermediary. The following is how one of our clients successfully applied for a Chinese tourist visa:

• First, fill out the form at the China Online Visa Application website ;
• Second, make an appointment on this website to submit your visa materials on Appointment for Visa Application Submission website ;
• Third, take the required documents to the embassy to submit;
• Finally, you will get a return receipt if your documents are qualified.

Usually, you will get your visa after 7 working days. The application fee is about USD185 for US citizens.

Q: What if my passport expires but my visa doesn't?

A: You can travel to China on the expired passport containing valid Chinese visa in combination with the new passport, provided that the identity information (name, date of birth, gender, nationality) on both passport identical.

If there is a change to any of the above details, you must apply for a new visa.

Number in your group

Adults (≥18 years old)

Adults' ages

10-17 yrs old

3-9 yrs old

0-2 yrs old

When would you travel?

Select your travel date and trip length (days).

United States   +1 United Kingdom   +44 Australia   +61 Canada   +1 France   +33 Germany   +49 Italy   +39 Mexico   +52 Netherlands   +31 Singapore   +65 Afghanistan    +93 Albania    +355 Algeria   +213 American Samoa   +1684 Andorra   +376 Angola   +244 Anguilla   +1264 Australia   +61 Antigua and Barbuda   +1268 Argentina   +54 Armenia    +374 Aruba   +297 Ascension Island   +247 Austria   +43 Azerbaijan   +994 Bahamas   +1242 Bahrain   +973 Bangladesh   +880 Barbados   +1246 Belarus   +375 Belgium   +32 Belize   +501 Benin   +229 Bermuda   +1441 Bhutan   +975 Bolivia   +591 Bosnia and Herzegovina   +387 Botswana   +267 Brazil   +55 British Indian Ocean Territory   +246 British Virgin Islands   +1284 Brunei   +673 Bulgaria    +359 Burkina Faso   +226 Burundi   +257 Cambodia   +855 Cameroon   +237 Canada   +1 Cape Verde   +238 Caribbean Netherlands   +599 Cayman Islands   +1345 Central African Republic   +236 Chad   +235 Chile   +56 China   +86 Christmas Island   +6189164 Cocos Islands   +6189162 Colombia   +57 Comoros   +269 Congo (DRC)   +243 Congo (Republic)   +242 Cook Islands   +682 Costa Rica   +506 Côte d'Ivoire   +225 Croatia   +385 Cuba   +53 Curaçao   +599 Cyprus   +357 Czech Republic   +420 Denmark   +45 Djibouti   +253 Dominica   +1767 Dominican Republic   +1809 Ecuador   +593 Egypt   +20 El Salvador   +503 Equatorial Guinea   +240 Eritrea   +291 Estonia   +372 Eswatini   +268 Ethiopia   +251 Falkland Islands   +500 Faroe Islands   +298 Fiji   +679 Finland   +358 France   +33 French Guiana   +594 French Polynesia   +689 Gabon   +241 Gambia   +220 Georgia   +995 Germany   +49 Ghana   +233 Gibraltar   +350 Greece   +30 Greenland   +299 Grenada   +1473 Guadeloupe   +590 Guam   +1671 Guatemala   +502 Guernsey   +441481 Guinea   +224 Guinea-Bissau   +245 Guyana   +592 Haiti   +509 Honduras   +504 Hong Kong   +852 Hungary   +36 Iceland   +354 India   +91 Indonesia   +62 Iran   +98 Iraq   +964 Ireland   +353 Isle of Man   +44 Israel   +972 Italy   +39 Jamaica   +1876 Japan   +81 Jersey   +44 Jordan   +962 Kazakhstan    +7 Kenya   +254 Kiribati   +686 Kosovo   +383 Kuwait   +965 Kyrgyzstan    +996 Laos   +856 Latvia    +371 Lebanon   +961 Lesotho   +266 Liberia   +231 Libya   +218 Liechtenstein   +423 Lithuania   +370 Luxembourg   +352 Macau   +853 Macedonia   +389 Madagascar   +261 Malawi   +265 Malaysia   +60 Maldives   +960 Mali   +223 Malta   +356 Marshall Islands   +692 Martinique   +596 Mauritania   +222 Mauritius   +230 Mayotte   +262 Micronesia   +691 Moldova   +373 Monaco   +377 Mongolia   +976 Montenegro   +382 Montserrat   +1664 Morocco   +212 Mozambique   +258 Myanmar    +95 Namibia   +264 Nauru   +674 Nepal   +977 New Caledonia   +687 New Zealand   +64 Nicaragua   +505 Niger   +227 Nigeria   +234 Niue   +683 Norfolk Island   +6723 North Korea   +850 Northern Mariana Islands   +1670 Norway   +47 Oman   +968 Pakistan   +92 Palau   +680 Palestine    +970 Panama    +507 Papua New Guinea   +675 Paraguay   +595 Peru    +51 Philippines   +63 Poland   +48 Portugal   +351 Puerto Rico   +1787 Qatar   +974 Réunion   +262 Romania   +40 Russia   +7 Rwanda   +250 Saint Barthélemy   +590 Saint Helena   +290 Saint Kitts and Nevis   +1869 Saint Lucia   +1758 Saint Martin   +590 Saint Pierre and Miquelon   +508 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines   +1784 Samoa   +685 San Marino   +378 São Tomé and Príncipe   +239 Saudi Arabia    +966 Senegal    +221 Serbia   +381 Seychelles   +248 Sierra Leone   +232 Sint Maarten   +1721 Slovakia   +421 Slovenia   +386 Solomon Islands   +677 Somalia   +252 South Africa   +27 South Korea   +82 South Sudan   +211 Spain   +34 Sri Lanka    +94 Sudan   +249 Suriname   +597 Svalbard and Jan Mayen   +47 Sweden   +46 Switzerland   +41 Syria    +963 Taiwan   +886 Tajikistan   +992 Tanzania   +255 Thailand   +66 Timor-Leste   +670 Togo   +228 Tokelau   +690 Tonga   +676 Trinidad and Tobago   +1868 Tunisia   +216 Turkey   +90 Turkmenistan   +993 Turks and Caicos Islands   +1649 Tuvalu   +688 U.S. Virgin Islands   +1340 Uganda   +256 Ukraine   +380 United Arab Emirates    +971 United Kingdom   +44 United States   +1 Uruguay   +598 Uzbekistan   +998 Vanuatu   +678 Vatican City   +379 Venezuela   +58 Vietnam   +84 Wallis and Futuna   +681 Western Sahara    +21228 Yemen   +967 Zambia   +260 Zimbabwe   +263 Åland Islands   +35818

I prefer to be contacted via:

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

If you do not apply for a Chinese visa, you may still have the opportunity to visit these areas of China visa free: the Shanghai area (including Suzhou, Hangzhou, etc.), the Beijing area (with Tianjin and Hebei), the Guangzhou area (Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.), and more. Take advantage of the 6-day visa-free entitlements.

Find out if you could use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy with our information on China's 144-hour Visa-Free Policy (Eligible Entry/Exit Ports, Applicable Countries, Documents to be Prepared...)

You can also obtain entry and exit control policies through the 24-hour hotline of the National Immigration Administration:

• Beijing: 0086 (+86)-10-12367
• Shanghai: 0086 (+86)-21-12367
• Guangzhou: 0086 (+86)-20-12367

Quick Test: Will My Route Qualify for China 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

1. I will depart from (only applies to direct or connected flight):

2. I will arrive in China at [city], [airport / railway station / port].

3. My arrival date is...

4. I will leave for [country/region] from China (the bounding destination on the air ticket):

5. My departure date is...

6. My nationality is...

8. I have Chinese visa refusal stamps in my passport.

You qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour visa-free policy.

You qualify to enjoy China's 144-hour visa-free policy.

You don't qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free policy.

Reason you don't qualify:

• You must be in transit to a third country or region.
• You must leave the city area (prefecture or municipality) after the 72/144 hours (the 72/144-hour limit is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after arrival, i.e. 24:00 on the arrival date).
• Your passport must be valid for more than 3 months at the time of entry into China.
• Your passport nationality is not eligible for the 72/144-hour visa exemption program.
• You have Chinese visa refusal stamps in your passport.

3. Port Visas (Landing Visas)

If you don't have time to get a visa, or if you find it cumbersome to apply for a tourist visa, you could consider traveling to China through a port visa.

Port visas can be applied for a group at least including 2 people. You need to enter the country within 15 days after you get your entry permit. The port visa allows a stay period of 1 to 2 months.

Applicable ports include Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Guilin, Xi'an, Chengdu, etc.

Note: Tourists from America are not granted a port visa in Shanghai.

Book your China trip with us and we can help you apply for a port visa.

4. Visa Exemption for ASEAN Tour Groups to Guilin

In addition, tour groups from ASEAN member countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines, can visit Guilin for 144 hours without visas as long as they meet the visa-free transit policy requirements.

5. Shanghai Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Groups

Shanghai has a 15-day visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via a cruise. You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a Chinese travel agent at the Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

6. Hainan Visa-Free Access

No visa is required for staying on Hainan Island for up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders from 59 countries. Groups and individual tourists must book a tour through an accredited travel agency.

Find out whether you qualify for the policy here .

7. Visa Exemption for the Pearl River Delta Area

International travelers from Hong Kong or Macau are able to visit the Pearl River Delta area (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.) visa-free as long as they go with a registered tour provider, such as us.

8. APEC Cards

If you hold a valid APEC business travel card, you can simply enter China with the card without applying for a visa.

Travelers who hold a valid APEC business travel card can stay in China for up to 60 days.

• 4-Day Beijing Private Tour - Essence of Beijing
• 11-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin–Shanghai Tour - Classic Wonders
• 13-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai Educational Family Vacation

Do I Still Need a PCR Test or Antigen Self-Test to Enter China

No. Starting from August 30,  all travelers entering China will no longer need to undergo any COVID-19 testing.   You do not need to submit any test results for COVID-19 before departure.

• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Private Tour - China Golden Triangle
• 13-Day Riches of China - Beijing – Xi'an – Guilin/Yangshuo – Hangzhou - Suzhou – Shanghai

Hong Kong / Macau Travel Restriction

Hong kong entry requirements.

Travelers from any region bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong could be a good gateway for your China trip. See suggestions on China Itineraries from Hong Kong  (from 1 Week to 3 Weeks).

Direct high-speed trains from Guangzhou and Shenzhen to Hong Kong are available now. In preparation for the Canton Fair, it is expected that direct high-speed ferries will be launched from Guangzhou Pazhou Port to Hong Kong's airport in mid-April.

• 10 Top China Tours from Hong Kong

Macau Entry Requirement

From August 30, travelers from any region bound for Macau will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test).

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Macau to the Chinese Mainland.

Inbound and outbound international flights in the week beginning March 6th rose by more than 350% compared with a year earlier, to nearly 2,500 flights, according to Chinese flight tracking data from APP Flight Master.

At present, there are one or two direct flights a week from New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, Seattle to Shanghai, London to Guangzhou, etc.

There are also many flight options with stopovers that are more frequent and affordable. Testing at transit airports is now not required!

The Coronavirus outbreak in China has subsided. China looks like it did in 2019 again. No special measures (like PCR tests or health codes) are required when traveling around China. All attractions are open as normal.

Wearing a mask is not mandatory when traveling. In hotels, masks are off for the most part. But in some crowded places, such as airports or subway stations, many people still wear masks.

Weather-wise, the best times to visit China are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when most of the popular places have their most tourism-friendly weather, except for the "golden weeks" — the first week of May and of October — when most attractions are flooded with Chinese tourists.

If you are looking for smaller crowds, favorable prices, and still good weather, you should consider March and April or September.

Tourism in cultural and historical destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an is hardly affected by weather conditions. They are suitable to be visited all year round.

• 11-Day Family Happiness - Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin/Yangshuo-Shanghai
• 13-Day Private Tour: Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu –Yangtze Cruise – Shanghai - China Essence and Panda Tour
• More Chengdu and Panda tours

China Highlights, Asia Highlights , and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.

Tour China with Us

We've been building our team for over 20 years. Even over the past three years we have continued, serving over 10,000 expats with China tours and getting a lot of praise (see TripAdvisor ).

We are based in China and can show you the characteristics and charm of China from a unique perspective. Just contact us to create your China trip .

Our consultants will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and prepare the best plan for you.

• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Highlights Tour — the classic Golden Triangle
• 11-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin–Shanghai — our top itinerary for families
• 2-Week Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu – Yangtze Cruise – Shanghai Tour — the best choice for panda fans

• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Private Tour
• 11-Day Classic Wonders
• 2-Week Riches of China
• 2-Week Private China Tour: Beijing–Xi'an–Lhasa-Shanghai
• 11-Day China Tour and Kungfu Experience
• 17-Day the Diverse Minorities
• 12-Day Chongqing, Chengdu, Leshan, Zhangjiajie, Fenghuang and Shanghai Tour
• 8-Day Beijing–Pingyao–Xi'an Private Tour By High-Speed Train
• 15 Days Chengdu, Chongqing, Yangtze, Zhangjiajie, Xian and Beijing Tour
• 14-Day Classic China Photo Tour
• 9-Day Guilin and Huangshan Photography Tour
• 16-Day Beijing, Pingyao, Taiyuan, Shanghai, Suzhou, Huangshan, Guilin and Guizhou Tour
• 4-Week Itinerary in China
• How to Plan a Winter Trip to China: Places to Go, Costs, Crowds
• How to Spend 19 Days in China in 2024/2025 (Top 5 Options and Costs)
• How to Plan a 3-Week Itinerary in China (Best 3 Options & Costs)
• China Itineraries for Families: Top 5 Options
• How to Plan Your First Trip to China 2024/2025 — 7 Easy Steps
• How to Plan a Trip to Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai (Itinerary, Costs, Transport…)
• How Long to Spend in China: Itineraries from 1 Week to 1 Month
• How to Plan a Multi-Generation Family Trip to China
• How to Plan a Summer Trip to China
• How to Plan a Beijing and Xi’an Trip (Itinerary, Cost, Transportation)
• Top 4 China Itinerary Options in 12 Days (for First Timers) 2024/2025
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
• China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
• China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
• China Weather in August: Tips for Family Travel
• China Weather in September: a Quieter Month in the Peak Season
• China Weather in October: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in November: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in December: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

The China Highlights Experience

Where can we take you today.

• Top 10 Tours
• Panda Tours
• Family Tours
• Nature Tours
• Photography Tours
• Visa-free Tours
• Hiking Tours
• Biking Tours
• Festival Tours
• Top Asia Tours
• Beijing Tours
• Chengdu Tours
• Chongqing Tours
• Great Wall Tours
• Guilin Tours
• Guizhou Tours
• Harbin Tours
• Hangzhou Tours
• Huangshan Tours
• Hong Kong Tours
• Inner Mongolia Tours
• Jiuzhaigou Tours
• Pingyao Tours
• Shanghai Tours
• Suzhou Tours
• Silk Road Tours
• Tibet Tours
• Taiwan Tours
• Tours from Hong Kong
• Tours from Shanghai
• Xinjiang Tours
• Xiamen Tours
• Yunnan Tours
• Yangtze River Tours
• Zhangjiajie Tours
• Thailand Tours
• Vietnam Tours
• Cambodia Tours
• Japan Tours
• Indonesia (Bali) Tours
• India Tours
• Myanmar Tours
• Central Asia Tours
• Egypt Tours
• Morocco Tours
• Turkey Tours

• Travel Agents
• Loyalty & Referral Program
• Privacy Policy

China Highlights uses cookies to give you the best possible service. If you continue browsing, you agree to the use of cookies. More details can be found in our privacy policy .

• [email protected]
• 86-773-286-5632 (Intl rates apply)

China Entry and Exit Requirements and Procedures 2023

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

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

China Entry Requirements

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

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

Customs Procedures

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

Red Channel

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

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

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

Green Channel

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

Hygiene Quarantine Requirements for Entering China

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

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

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

People Forbidden to Enter China

The following individuals are not allowed to enter China:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

C. Those who refuse to be inspected.

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

Exiting China

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

People Forbidden to Leave China

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

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

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

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

A. Those who hold invalid certificates.

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

C. Those who refuse to be inspected.

More Articles on How to Enter China 2023

• China Travel Restrictions 2023
• How to Apply for a Visa to China
• Shanghai 144 Hours Visa-free Transit

Recommended China Classic Tours

• 8-Day Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai Tour
• 11-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai Tour
• 11-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Yangtze River, Shanghai Tour

We can also customize your own trip based on your group size, budget, interests, preferences, and other requirements. Please feel free to  contact us , our professional travel advisors will give you recommendations.

Request a custom itinerary today and get one step closer to your personalized trip

Create Your Trip

• Asia Briefing
• China Briefing
• ASEAN Briefing
• India Briefing
• Vietnam Briefing
• Silk Road Briefing
• Russia Briefing
• Middle East Briefing

Traveling to China After Reopening – What’s Changed?

We offer the latest advice on traveling to China in 2023, including information on current Chinese visa application requirements, pre-flight testing, and travel tips.

UPDATE (September 20, 2023): In a bid to attract more international visitors, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) introduced a simplified visa application process on September 20, 2023. This revision primarily focuses on the visa application form and entails two significant changes. Firstly, applicants are now required to list their travel history from the past year instead of the previous five years. Secondly, the educational background section has been streamlined to only request the highest level of education achieved.

These adjustments, according to MFA spokesperson Mao Ning, are intended to reduce the time applicants spend on visa forms and enhance overall efficiency. The MFA reaffirmed its dedication to fostering people-to-people interactions between China and other countries, emphasizing China’s commitment to high-quality development and global engagement.

UPDATE: On August 28, 2023, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin made a significant declaration . Starting from August 30, 2023, travelers heading to China will not have to undergo mandatory pre-entry COVID-19 nucleic acid tests or antigen tests.

In March 2023, China announced that it had resumed issuing all types of visas , giving the official greenlight for foreign travelers and tourists to return to the country. This announcement followed months of gradual dismantling of COVID-19 travel restrictions, which saw the lifting of quarantines, vaccine and testing requirements, and travel codes.  

Domestic and international travel requirements have since been further relaxed so that there are currently almost no additional steps to take in relation to COVID-19 in order to travel to China.  

However, foreign travelers may still be confused when planning for their China trip, as it adopted a progressive approach for lifting restrictions, and the latest information is scattered across a series of announcements. Below we answer some common questions on China travel after the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions.

Which Chinese visas are currently available?  

China resumed issuing all types of visas in March 2023. All of the same types of visas that were available prior to the pandemic are now available for application again.  

The visas that are currently available to travel to China are listed in the table below.  

Note that if you obtain a long-term visa, such as a work or student visa, you are required to convert the visa into a residence permit within a prescribed period of time, usually 30 days.

Is my 10 – year C hinese visa still valid?  

All multiple entry visas that were issued before March 28, 2020, that are still within the validity date can now be used to travel to China again . This includes 10-year visitor visas issued to citizens of the US and other countries. Note that you are usually only able to stay in China for a period of up to 60 days on this type of visa, and you will need to apply for another long-stay visa if you wish to stay longer than 60 days. 

I f the visa has expired since March 28, 2020 , you will be required to apply for a new visa before you can travel to China.  

How do I apply for a Chinese tourist visa in 2023?  

In most cases, foreigners must apply for a visa in order to travel to China. This is done through your nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Center, not the consulate or embassy. You must either be a citizen or have residency or another right to stay (such as a visa) in the country in which you apply for the Chinese visa.

The requirements to apply for a visa vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the location in which you apply for it. It is therefore important to check the website of your local Chinese Visa Application Service Center for application requirements.  

Note that the duration of short-stay visas, such as tourism or business visas, can also vary depending on your specific situation, where you apply, and your nationality.  

China does offer some visa-free options for short-term travel. These include 144-hour , 72-hour, and 24-hour visa-free transit, which allows foreign travelers to enter China through designated ports and travel around a limited area for up to six days, provided they are continuing on to a third country after departing the country.  

For more information on visa-free travel to China, see our Complete Guide to China’s Visa-Free Policies .  

What are the COVID-19 testing requirements to travel to China?  

According to the latest information, starting from August 30, 2023, travelers bound for China will no longer be required to undergo COVID-19 nucleic acid tests or antigen tests before their departure.

The removal of these testing requirements marks a substantial shift in the entry process for individuals traveling to China. With the withdrawal of COVID-19 testing prerequisites, travelers will no longer need to present negative test results or undergo testing procedures prior to boarding their flights to China. This change is set to significantly streamline the travel process and eliminate a significant barrier that had been in place to mitigate the spread of the virus.

Airlines are no longer required to check the COVID-19 tests before boarding, and there are no testing requirements upon arrival in China.

However, you may be asked to show the health declaration code, which you receive after filling in the health declaration form , as the border force conducts spot checks.

If you report any symptoms, you may be taken aside for additional testing. If you test positive, you will be permitted to self-isolate in your place of stay or seek medical help if required.

It’s important to stay updated with any further announcements or changes that may arise, as travel guidelines and policies can evolve in response to the ongoing global situation. Travelers are advised to refer to official sources such as the Chinese government’s official websites and diplomatic channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information before planning their trips to China.

Are there any restrictions on traveling within China?  

China has removed all domestic travel restrictions, meaning that people are now free to cross provincial and regional borders without having to show negative COVID-19 tests or health codes.  

Note that if you enter China on one of the short-term transit entry permits, you are not permitted to travel outside a certain designated area, which will depend on your port of entry. For information on where you can travel on this entry permit, see our article here .  

Do I need to take any COVID-19 precautions while traveling in China?  

COVID-19 is still present in China, and it is therefore advisable to take common sense prevention measures when traveling around the country. These precautions are the same as the ones you would take in other countries and include regularly washing your hands or using hand sanitizer, wearing a mask in public, and avoiding crowded areas where possible, among others.  

Mask mandates on public transport and in public areas, such as restaurants, bars, stores, malls, and parks, have been removed. However, the government still advises people to wear them of their own volition.  

Wearing a mask is still mandatory in nursing homes and medical institutions. You should also wear a mask if you test positive for COVID-19.  

What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 while in China?  

You are no longer required to go to a quarantine facility if you test positive for COVID-19.

The current official advice in China if you test positive for COVID-19 is to self-isolate at home if you are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms. If you have moderate to severe symptoms, you should seek medical help, and you may be hospitalized if your condition is serious.    

It is advisable to purchase medical insurance before traveling to China, as staff in public health institutions may only speak Chinese and private healthcare is very expensive.  

It is also advisable to bring fever medicine, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, as you may not be able to buy the same brands you are used to taking in your home country, and staff at pharmacies usually only speak Chinese.  

(This article was originally published on June 9, 2023 , and was last updated on September 20 , 2023.)

China Briefing is written and produced by Dezan Shira & Associates . The practice assists foreign investors into China and has done so since 1992 through offices in Beijing, Tianjin, Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Suzhou, Guangzhou, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Please contact the firm for assistance in China at [email protected] .

Dezan Shira & Associates has offices in Vietnam , Indonesia , Singapore , United States , Germany , Italy , India , Dubai (UAE) , and Russia , in addition to our trade research facilities along the Belt & Road Initiative . We also have partner firms assisting foreign investors in The Philippines , Malaysia , Thailand , Bangladesh .

• Previous Article Shanghai Relaxes Permanent Residence Criteria for Applicants with PhD Degree
• Next Article Tax Implications for Chinese Permanent Residence ID Card Holders

Our free webinars are packed full of useful information for doing business in China.

DEZAN SHIRA & ASSOCIATES

Meet the firm behind our content. Visit their website to see how their services can help your business succeed.

Want the Latest Sent to Your Inbox?

Subscribing grants you this, plus free access to our articles and magazines.

Get free access to our subscriptions and publications

Subscribe to receive weekly China Briefing news updates, our latest doing business publications, and access to our Asia archives.

Your trusted source for China business, regulatory and economy news, since 1999.

Subscribe now to receive our weekly China Edition newsletter. Its free with no strings attached.

Not convinced? Click here to see our last week's issue.

Search our guides, media and news archives

Type keyword to begin searching...

Check out the Updated China Travel Requirements for 2022

China Travel Requirements for Arriving passengers from the Philippines : This is the updated advisory for traveling passengers arriving in China. This is sourced from Philippine Airlines COVID travel advisories.

These travel requirements are for travel to China only. Looking for information when arriving in the Philippines from abroad? Check out the COVID Travel Requirements for foreigners or returning overseas Filipinos arriving from abroad. Or click here for General Travel Requirements for Destinations Within the Philippines.

China Travel Requirements per Philippine Airlines Advisory: Guangzhou, Jinjiang, Beijing, Shanghai, Xiamen (CAN, JJN, PEK, PVG, XMN)

China travel requirements: allowed travelers.

• Chinese Nationals
• Foreigners or Non-Chinese nationals who hold valid residence permits for work, private affairs, or reunion are allowed to enter Mainland China. Travelers holding expired residence permits may apply for a renew visa via the Chinese embassy if their purposes of visiting remain unchanged.
• Non-Chinese nationals coming to the mainland of China for necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities or out of emergency humanitarian needs may apply for visas at Chinese embassies or consulates
• Taiwan residents are allowed to enter Xiamen by the valid Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents or using the Taiwan ID card to apply for a landing visa (a Single Travel Permit for the Taiwan Resident)

China Travel Requirements: General Requirements

Medical documents.

• All travelers from Philippine airports shall be required to the required COVID-19 tests (Nucleic Acid test and Serum Antibody test) conducted by designated institutions by the Chinese Government

Travel Documents

• Exit/Entry Health Declaration Form of the People’s Republic of China
• PH Bureau of Immigration Declaration Form
• For passengers whose COVID-19 test will be taken from any of  PAL’s Partner Laboratories , please register to  PAL Laboratory Partner e-CIF  as early as five days before departure.

Quarantine Requirements

• All travelers are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine at a quarantine hotel or a designated quarantine facility
• Travelers may be required to be tested for COVID-19 depending on the arrival city.
• Disclaimer : This is only an advisory from the referring airline. Travel restrictions are subject to change without notice by the issuing local government authority. As a result, the requirements or restrictions listed above are not real-time and should be used only as a guide. Please verify your requirements with the official offices, pages, or websites of both your origin and destinations directly.
• Source:  Philippine Airlines COVID-19 Travel Advisory
• Philippine Airlines Travel Requirements for All Destinations
• Philippine Airlines Travel Insurance Covid-19-Related Benefits
• Philippine Airlines Promos for 2022
• Philippine Airlines Flight Schedule
• Philippine Airlines Cancelled Flights
• Philippine Airlines Baggage Allowance
• Philippine Airlines Travel Advisory
• Philippine Airlines Flight Status
• Philippine Airlines Refund Rebooking Travel Fund
• Philippine Airlines Hotline and Contact Numbers

China Travel Requirements per Cebu Pacific Advisory: Canton

Updated as of June 20, 2022

For guests flying to Canton , please present printed copies of the following travel requirements to be accepted for flight:

China Travel Requirements for Chinese Nationals

• Health Declaration Form – submitted via WeChat or through this  link . Save a printed/digital copy of the QR code at the end of the form.
• Health Code for PCR Test Approval (with “HS” marked in the middle, and should be color green)
• A negative PCR test result, conducted within 48 hours before boarding

China Travel Requirements for Non-Chinese Nationals:

• Valid Visa for China – date of issuance should be after November 3, 2020
• Permanent Residence Card
• Diplomatic, courtesy passport
• Certified Health Declaration Forms – click  here  to apply.

All arriving guests will be required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival. This is free of charge. There is also a mandatory 14-day hotel centralized quarantine upon arrival at the guest’s expense.

All guests exiting the Philippines are required to print and fill out the Bureau of Immigration form before your flight. Click here to download the form and have it ready upon check-in.

These are the China Travel requirements we have as of the date indicated. Requirements may change from time to time without prior notice. Please continue checking with the government of China for the complete list of entry requirements (e.g., visa, waiver forms, etc.) depending on your nationality.

• Disclaimer: This is only an advisory from the referring airline. Travel restrictions are subject to change without notice by the issuing local government authority. As a result, the requirements or restrictions listed above are not real-time and should be used only as a guide. Please verify your requirements with the official offices, pages or websites of both your origin and destinations directly.
• Source : Cebu Pacific COVID-19 Travel Advisory
• Cebu Pacific Travel Requirements for All Destinations
• Cebu Pacific Domestic Flight Requirements
• Cebu Pacific Promos for 2022
• Cebu Pacific Flight Schedule
• Cebu Pacific Cancelled Flights
• Cebu Pacific Rebooking
• Cebu Pacific Travel Fund
• Cebu Pacific Baggage Policy and Fees
• Cebu Pacific Terminal Assignment
• Cebu Pacific Travel Advisory
• Cebu Pacific Flight Status
• Cebu Pacific Hotline and Contact Numbers

COVID China Travel Requirements for Arriving Local Passengers Disclaimer: Please note that there may be multiple travel requirements for each international destination. These rules are subject to change by the issuing foreign government authority and are issued for our passengers and the public’s safety. As these requirements may change at short notice, the advisories above serve as a general guide.

Latest Promos to and From China

• Information of the Embassy
• Sino-Philippine Relations
• Consular Services

（ As of 8  January   2023）

The latest visa application requirements of the Embassy of the People ’ s Republic of China in the Philippines are as follows:

1. Application Procedures

① O nline application at https://cova.cs.mfa.gov.cn .  C onfirmation page and full form   (8 pages in total)  must be printed with signature on  the confirmation page and item 9 of the form.

②   A ppointment  at https://avas.mfa.gov.cn   for o rdinary passport holders should be made before Visa Application Submission .   

Diplomatic passport holders, or applicants eligible for Diplomatic, Service and Courtesy visas   may  submit visa application directly to the Embassy   (no need for appointment).

③   Submi ssion: D ocuments shall be submitted to the Embassy in full and at the appointment time.

2.  D ocuments required

① Visa Application Form and the confirmation page .

②  P assport and a photocopy of the data page.

③ One ID  photo that is: in color, taken within the last 6 months, in full-face view directly facing the camera, in front of a plain white or off-white background, sized 48mm x 33mm.

④ Proof of legal stay or residence status in   the Philippines   (applicable to applicants  from third countries ) .

⑤ Photocopy of previous Chinese passports or previous Chinese visas (applicable to foreign citizens   who used to have  Chinese citizens hip ).

⑥ A dditional  documents   required   as follows  according to v isa categories accepted :

     3.  Notes

Visa applications related to travel  and  medical treatment are still suspended currently.

4. Contact us

Address of  the   Consular Section:   2nd Floor, the World Center, 330 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City, Metro Manila

Email  address   for   Chinese Visa\Hong Kong visa\Legalization ： [email protected]

Tel:  0927-5029218 (English&Tagalog, 9AM-11AM&2PM-4PM, Monday to Friday)

Travel requirements

Before you travel, make sure to check the latest travel, passport and visa requirements to ensure you’re eligible to fly. We also highly recommend checking the official government website of your destination country for the latest information.

Travel declaration forms

Please ensure complete the necessary forms prior to arriving at your airport so that your airport experience is a smooth one.

Visit our Travel declaration forms page for more information.

Travel restrictions are provided by Sherpa and should be used as a guideline only. For the latest information, please refer to the official government website of your destination country. Visit Copyright and Disclaimer to learn more about our policy for third party sites.

Stay up to date

Where we're flying.

We're dedicated to getting you where you need to be. View the latest information about our current and upcoming flights.

View all destinations

Philippines to tighten COVID monitoring for travellers from China

People wearing face masks as protection against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) ride on a jeepney, in Manila, Philippines, March 1, 2022. REUTERS/Lisa Marie David Acquire Licensing Rights

MANILA, Dec 31 (Reuters) - The Philippines sees a need to intensify the monitoring and implementation of border control for incoming individuals especially from China that is experiencing a record surge in COVID-19 cases, Manila’s health ministry said on Saturday.

In an “extremely urgent” memo, the health ministry ordered all ports of entry to heighten surveillance on all respiratory symptoms in all travellers from China, and report intercepted symptomatic passengers.

The Philippines was among the hardest hit by the pandemic, imposing lengthy and strict lockdowns in 2020, but most of the coronavirus curbs were removed earlier this year to allow the reopening of the economy.

Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by Alison Williams

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

China's Xi in US for high-stakes Biden summit, APEC

Stocks surge, dollar slumps as traders cheer inflation surprise

APEC 2023: What you need to know about San Francisco summit

Thailand drops joint patrols with Chinese police after public backlash

More from Reuters

US renews waiver letting Iraq pay Iran for electricity

The United States has issued a new 120-day waiver allowing Iraq to pay Iran for electricity, U.S. officials said on Tuesday, stressing Tehran could only use the funds for humanitarian trade and seeking to blunt criticism of giving Iran the money.

Japanese helicopters train to repel invaders amid nationwide military drills

Man arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after UK ice hockey player death

Sacked minister Braverman attacks UK's Sunak as failing and weak

China's Jan-Oct property sales fell 7.8% y/y, investment down 9.3%

China Visa Application Requirements for Filipino Tourists in The Philippines (Single / Multiple Entry)

by Aileen Adalid Visa Guides & Immigration 4 comments

• Australia Facts & Trivia: 10 Things Foreigners Should Know

20 Best Spots for Autumn in Japan: Top Places for Fall Foliage Viewing

• Best 5 Things to Do in Kathmandu City & Valley (Nepal)
• How to Apply for a Russian Visa for Filipino Tourists or Visitors
• Why You Should Avoid Loboc Tarsier Conservation Area in Bohol, Philippines
• Big Berry: A Luxurious Lifestyle Camp in Slovenia (Review)
• Best Carry-On Suitcase with Laptop Compartment: LEVEL8 Roadrunner (20″) — Perfect for Digital Nomads!
• How to Apply for a Germany Schengen Visa for Filipino Tourists (Manila, Philippines)
• Japan Visa Application Requirements for Filipino Tourists in Manila, Philippines (Single / Multiple Entry)
• Taiko Drum Experience at Sado Island: Home of World-Famous Kodo Group (Japan Travel Guide)

China is vast and because of that, it is definitely a melting pot of various diversities for activities, food, history, and sceneries that a lot of tourists seek. In fact, from the bustling city hubs to the quiet rural areas, it’s a destination that can offer just about anything for every type of traveler out there! (China Visa)

What to Do in China?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in China which features the best activities and tours to do in places like Shanghai, Beijing, and more!

Top photo by: Shutterstock

But in order to visit the country as a Filipino citizen, you need to apply for a China visa first — unless you are arriving at the following destinations then, fortunately, you are visa-free or visa-exempt:

• Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX): Filipinos are visa-exempt for 30 days but you must stay within Hainan Province only under a stamped name list or invitation letter from a registered tourist agent in the province OR with a confirmed hotel booking, AND an onward ticket. You must enter and exit through this airport.
• Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK): Filipinos are visa-exempt for 30 days but you must stay within Hainan Province only under a stamped name list or invitation letter from a registered tourist agent in the province. You must enter and exit through this airport.
• Guilin Lioangjiang Airport (KWL): Filipinos are visa-exempt for 6 days but you must be a part of a tourist group tour with at least 2 tourists organized by a registered travel agent. You must enter and exit through this airport.
• Hong Kong (SAR) : Filipinos are visa-exempt for 14 days.
• BONUS : If you are already in Hong Kong or Macau, you can visit the Pearl River Delta region (including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Zhaoqing, and Huizhou) visa-exempt for 6 days as long as you are part of a tourist group organized by a travel agency in Hong Kong or Macao.

If you’re not going through any of the above visa-exempt destinations in China, don’t fret! After all, the China visa application is quite fast and easy. So in order to get a Chinese visa, I hope that my visa guide and tips below will help you get a successful application!

…But first, a disclaimer :

NO ONE can give you a guarantee on your China visa’s approval — not even a lawyer, a consultant, a travel agent, or an embassy employee. Anyone who says otherwise is most likely going to be a scammer.

That being said, what I can offer you here is a comprehensive guide with helpful tips to increase your chances of getting that China Visa.

Table of Contents

Application Process for China Visa

Step 1: determine the type of china visa that you need to apply for.

There are, of course, various types of China visas out there that you can apply for: a visa for studying, a visa for working, a visa for marriage, etc.

But for this particular guide, I will only be discussing the requirements for a visit or tourist visa since it’s an experience that I’ve gone through myself.

If, however, you have a complicated situation or a different purpose for visit, it’s best that you head over to this page for more information.

– – –

Step 2: Prepare required documents

Below are the required documents for acquiring a China visa.

IMPORTANT NOTES: – Applications with incomplete documents will NOT be accepted. – Every document must be authentic and complete. Forged and incomplete applications will be denied and flagged. – If you filled any of the documents below by hand, please ensure that it is in black ink only and that there are no erasures. – You can request for a multiple-entry visa on your visa application form but all decisions regarding the issuance of, number of entries and duration of a visa are at the sole discretion of the embassy, and it is not guaranteed that the embassy will grant your request.

Basic Requirements

• A photocopy of the passport’s bio and emergency contact page.
• Old passports (if you don’t have any or have lost them, indicate this on your visa application form).
• If the name in your new passport is different from that in your old passport, the official document (birth certificate/marriage contract) issued by the authorities for this name change must be submitted. .
• Submit a photocopy of your old/previous china visa page as well. .
• Go to this link to accomplish the form. You can save and return to your COVA any time but it will only be saved for 30 days.
• Prepare a digital copy of your passport photo because you need to upload this for your COVA form.
• Do not leave any field blank. In case the option to select ‘Not Applicable ‘ is not available, just type ‘ N/A’.
• Print and sign the document after submitting the form online because you also need to submit the physical copy to the consular office.
• Application forms for minors must be signed by their parents or legal guardians.
• Take note of your application ID because this is needed when making your appointment with the embassy. .
• Photo size of 48mm x 33mm
• Front view in white background with no head covering.
• Stapled/taped/clipped/detached photos will not be accepted. .
• You can download a sample travel itinerary here . .
• With them, you can reserve a hotel with NO pre-payment and you can even cancel the booking a day before your arrival with NO cancellation charges at all. So yes, you can make reservations without any payment, you can change the reservation anytime, AND you can cancel them at no cost as well if in case your visa is not approved.
• The embassy requires that it must indicate a Passenger Registration Number or basically a reservation number ( OneWayFly flight reservations include this).
• Later on, for the best flight deals, my go-to platform is Skyscanner . It scans through all the international airlines (budget and luxury lines) to present to you the best deals.
• Information of the applicant: full name, gender, date of birth etc.
• Information of the planned visit: purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, source of funds, etc.
• Information of the inviting entity or individual: full name/company name, contact number, address, official stamp, and signature of the legal representative or the inviting individual. .
• For proof of relationship between the applicant and the inviting entity or individual, this can be a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or certificate of kinship issues by the Chinese Public Security Bureau, or any notarized certification of kinship.
• For identification, provide a photocopy of the inviter’s Chinese ID or passport with a Chinese residence permit.

For First-Time Applicants

• As a standard, a minimum of Php 100,000 bank balance is required but there have been some cases wherein a Php 50,000 bank balance was approved. Nevertheless, the greater the amount, the better. .
• Come sign up with my code AILEEN and you can get a 10% discount on all their subscription plans! .
• If Employed, a Certificate of Employment — It should detail your salary and length of employment. Oftentimes, they may also ask for a photocopy of your company ID. .
• If you’re a PRC or Professional, submit your ID. .
• If a Student, your ID — Submit your Student ID. .
• It doesn’t hurt to submit a cover letter as well to give more context on your travel purpose.

If necessary, the embassy may require you to provide other documents or supplementary materials, or even require an interview.

Step 3: Schedule your China visa application appointment at “AVAS”

Unlike before, the Chinese Embassy NO longer accepts walk-ins, and starting in 2021, everyone is required to book appointments on the AVAS (Appointment for Visa Application Submission) website .

For the Philippines, there are 4 locations to choose from Cebu, Davao, Laoag, and Manila.

• You can ask someone to book an appointment on your behalf as long as they have your application ID details.
• After successfully booking an appointment, you must print the confirmation page and bring it to the embassy along with your other documents on your scheduled date.
• When canceling, you must do it at least one (1) day in advance, otherwise, your application ID will be revoked and you will need to make a new COVA application.
• You can book one appointment for a maximum of six (6) applicants, but all applicants must go to the embassy/consulate together. .

Step 4: Submit your documents at the Chinese Embassy on your appointment date

You must arrive at least 20 minutes in advance of your appointment time and please ensure that you have all your documents with you (AVAS confirmation, passport, COVA form, etc. — refer to ‘Step #2’) .

As previously mentioned, there are 4 China consular addresses in the Philippines and they operate from Monday to Friday from 9AM to 11AM only :

• MANILA Embassy of the People’s Republic of China 2nd Floor, the World Center 330 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue Makati City, Metro Manila (02) 848-2386 [email protected] .
• CEBU Chinese Consulate General in Cebu City 7th Floor, Mandarin Plaza Hotel Archbishop Reyes Avenue Corner Escario Street Cebu City (02) 505-1037 consulate [email protected] / [email protected] / cebu.china-consulate.org .
• DAVAO Chinese Consulate General in Davao Acacia Street, Juna Subdivision, Matina Davao City, Davao del Sur (82) 298-7471 .
• LAOAG Consulate of the People’s Republic of China in Laoag City No.216 National Highway, Brgy. 1 San Francisco, San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte 2901 (77) 772-1874 / 670-6355 .

When you arrive at any of these consular offices, the staff by the door will inspect all of your documents. Once they confirm that you have everything they needed, they will usher you in; after which, you’ll have to wait until your name or number is called.

After they accept all of your documents, they will give you a release slip which will indicate the date that you should claim your passport and visa results.

Regular processing time is 4 working days , but if you are NOT a first-time applicant, you can apply for a rush or express service: — Express service (release in 3 working days): Php 1,100 — Rush service (release in 2 working days): Php 1,700 . This service fee is separate from the visa fee that you’ll have to pay when you claim your passport. Take note that only cash payments are allowed at the moment.

Step 5: Wait and then claim the results of your China Visa application

Go back to the consular office on the date that was mentioned on the release slip . You will get a queue number from the staff and once it’s your turn, you need to make another payment at the passport releasing window and this is for the visa fee. Depending on the visa that has been granted to you, you will need to pay as follows…

• Single Entry : Php 1,400
• Double Entry: Php 2,100
• Multiple Entry valid for 6 months : Php 2,800
• Multiple Entry valid for 1 year: Php 4,200

If you are granted a visa, please double-check that all the information is correct with no misspellings. Should there be any discrepancy, you must inform them immediately.

Unfortunately, if your application is refused, the consular office is not required to give you any reason for the refusal.

» Top CHINA Tours «

Shanghai Disneyland …the best place on Earth!

Beijing Palace Museum Enter the Forbidden City.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

You must apply at least 2 or 3 weeks before your departure date — but the earlier, the better!

Yes, you can! Just make sure to indicate this in your COVA (China Online Visa Application) when accomplishing step #2 above.

It will depend on the visa that the consular office will issue to you; but usually, a multiple-entry visa can last for 6 months or 1 year. Whereas a single-entry or double-entry visa typically lasts for 14 days only.

The Embassy of China did not explicitly state a money requirement but a s a standard, a minimum of Php 100,000 bank balance is best — or have enough money that should show how it will cover all of your travel costs. Anyhow, there have been some cases wherein a Php 50,000 bank balance was approved. Nevertheless, the greater the amount, the better !

As stated above, the embassy typically processes applications in just 4 working days. If you want to have it processed faster, you can pay for an express or rush service (but this is only available to you if you are NOT a first-time applicant).

For a tourist visa application, there’s usually NO interview. The consular officer accepting your documents may ask a question or two, but it’s only to verify the information regarding your documents or application.

Unfortunately, the embassy has given no information as to when you can reapply again. They also don’t provide any information as to why your application has been refused; but usually, the reason for that can be because of how… — You have no strong ties in the Philippines (or a reason to necessitate your return; e.g. employment, etc.) — Your documents or reason for travel is unclear or questionable — Your financial capacity is not enough to support your trip

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

Looking for more travel tips for China?

Check out my other detailed China travel guides !

Applying for a China visa is relatively easy, and I hope that with this visa guide, I can help you prepare your documents and requirements better.

Let me know how it goes. Good luck!

Have you seen my latest vlog?

Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission?  To show you how it is absolutely possible to  create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

Follow Along

CURRENTLY BASED IN: The Philippines

• 100k Followers
• 51k Followers
• 80k Followers
• 10k Followers
• 23.1k Followers

Join over 1 million readers worldwide and get my FREE packing checklist, gain exclusive access to travel giveaways and more!

Success! Next, please check your email to confirm your subscription.

GET FREE PRINTABLE NOW!

Trending Now

7 surprising and wonderful facts about south korea you need to know.

Explore these 7 must-know surprising facts about South Korea and discover the fascinating culture and traditions of this vibrant nation!

Find out the top 20 places for autumn foliage viewing — experience the breathtaking beauty of autumn in Japan like never before!

Korean Visa Application Requirements for Filipino Tourists in Manila, Philippines (Single / Multiple Entry)

Make your South Korea travel dreams come true and get a single or multiple South Korean visa in Manila, Philippines!

Seoul Itinerary: Ultimate DIY Travel Guide for South Korea for 5 Days (More or Less)

Heading over to South Korea anytime soon? Follow this ultimate DIY travel guide in order to make the most of your Seoul itinerary!

53 Non-EU Countries You Can Visit with a Schengen Visa (2023 Update for Visa-FREE Entry Worldwide)

Aside from 26 member countries, there are 50+ more countries you can visit with a Schengen visa that has single, double, or multiple entries!

Latest Posts

Learn Today

How to start a successful blog, up for grabs.

Thank you for you Blog. This is a very big help.

One thing i need to clarify (HOpe you can answer, thank you in advance) Is it advisable to get the ticket first before visa application? or is it a pre requisite to apply for a visa that you must have a ticket.

Hey Raymond, yes, as stated above, providing a flight ticket is required — however, it does NOT have to be a confirmed ticket. It can just be a reservation, so that you don’t waste money if let’s say your visa is not approved. You can easily get a flight reservation with any travel tour company, or with OneWayFly online for a fee of only Php 1,000~. I recommend them because they are legitimate and I have been using them for years for all of my visa applications. Hope this helps!

So helpful! Thank you!

You’re welcome, good luck on your China visa application!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Be notified of follow-up comments by email

Be notified of new posts by email

Submit Comment

Pin It on Pinterest

What you need to know about the new requirements for Filipinos traveling overseas

Published Aug 24, 2023, 9:06:51 PM

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 24) — The government recently issued revised guidelines for international-bound Filipino travelers, citing the need for stricter rules to combat human trafficking.

The new document from the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) was made public on Tuesday, Aug. 22, and “shall take effect 15 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation or in the Official Gazette.” 

Complaints over the fresh set of guidelines have surfaced after its release, with a lawmaker saying the additional requirements are too burdensome. 

Former Solicitor General Florin Hilbay also questioned its constitutionality.

“An unconstitutional sleight of hand: from right to travel to permission to leave,” he wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Hilbay said it gives immigration officials “wide latitude to harass migrant workers” and warned that it can be used to harass critics of the government.

He added that it may result not only in longer lines at airports but also corruption.

What exactly are the new requirements that will soon be asked of Filipinos before they can leave the country? CNN Philippines lists them down.

What are the basic travel documents?

- Passport (valid at least six months from the date of departure)

- Appropriate valid visa, whenever required

- Boarding pass

- Confirmed return or roundtrip ticket, when necessary

Passengers will be subject to inspection by an immigration officer (IO) who will interview them about the purpose of their travel and check their basic travel documents.

The IACAT said the IO may ask relevant clarificatory questions and additional supporting documents, which will be enumerated later in this article, to establish the purpose of travel.

In certain cases, IOs may find the need for secondary inspection, which shall not exceed 15 minutes “unless extraordinary circumstances require” such, the IACAT said.

It added that whenever circumstances require, an authorized secondary IO may still conduct a random redundancy check on a passenger already cleared by a primary officer.

What are the additional supporting documents?

Below are the additional supporting documents which immigration officers may require from travelers.

FOR TOURISTS

SELF-FUNDED TRAVELS

- Confirmed return or roundtrip ticket

- Proof of hotel booking/accommodation

- Financial capacity or source of income consistent with the passenger’s declared purpose of travel

- Proof of employment and other equivalent documents.

SPONSORED TRAVELS

If the sponsor abroad is a relative within the 1st civil degree of the passenger:

- Original Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-issued birth certificate/report of birth or marriage certificate/report of marriage

- Copies of the following documents of sponsor: valid passport; valid work visa/permit, residence permit or any equivalent document; and overseas employment certificate (OEC), e-receipt, or OFW clearance, for OFW sponsors

If the sponsor abroad is a relative up to fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity, unless otherwise limited by the Philippine embassy or consulate exercising jurisdiction:

- Original Affidavit of Support and Guarantee (AOSG)

- Original PSA-issued birth certificate/report of birth or marriage certificate/report of marriage showing the exact relationship between the passenger and the sponsor.

If the sponsor abroad is a non-relative or a legal/juridical entity:

- Original Affidavit of Support and Guarantee 

- Substantial proof of relationship

- If a legal/juridical entity, registration papers of the sponsor

The IACAT noted that the AOSG must be duly notarized by the Philippine embassy, consulate, or honorary consulate authorized to perform notarization services. If it is notarized by a local notary public in the country of destination, the AOSG must be duly authenticated by the Philippine embassy, consulate, or honorary consulate (for non-Apostille countries), or apostilled by the apostille authority in the country of destination (for Apostille countries).

If traveling with a local sponsor:

- Duly notarized affidavit executed by the local sponsor 

- Copy of the sponsor’s return ticket consistent with that of the passenger

FOR OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS

For OFWs departing for the first time:

- OEC, E-receipt, or OFW clearance duly issued by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) as appearing in the Border Control Information System (BCIS)

- Valid and appropriate employment visa or work permit or any equivalent document

- Employment contract, as necessary

- Visa Usage Undertaking or Manpower Request specifying visa usage approved or verified by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), if applicable

For Balik-Manggagawa:

- Valid and appropriate employment visa/work permit or any equivalent document

- OFW clearance

- OEC issued on-site by the MWO or by the DMW or Migrant Workers Airport Assistance Center (MWAAC), or Online BM OEC Exemption or manually issued OEC

- Proof of employment, as necessary

For direct hires:

- OEC, E-receipt, or valid OFW clearance

- Proper and valid work visa/work permit or any equivalent document

For OFWs traveling to other countries during their vacation in the Philippines:

- If the OFW will travel to other country/ies for tourism, but will return to the Philippines before proceeding to his/her jobsite, the OFW shall undergo the usual immigration inspection for tourist travelers.

- If the OFW will travel to other country/ies for tourism, but will proceed directly to his/her job site, a valid OEC may be required.

OFWs requiring special travel exit clearance in lieu of OEC:

- Locally employed seafarers (conduction crew) who will be manning a Philippine Registered Ship’s conduction from a foreign port to the Philippines

- Seafarers who will undergo orientation and other analogous circumstances as a requirement before their employment, as the prospective foreign employer prescribes. The foreign employer must be accredited by a licensed local manning agency

- Emergency change crew for Philippine registered vessels docked in international ports.

Minors traveling with parents:

Minors traveling with parents may be required to present their original Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-issued birth certificate or report of birth. The IACAT added that a minor traveling without the mother may be asked to show a copy of his or her parents’ PSA-issued marriage certificate.

The revised guidelines also state that the following may be asked to show a travel clearance certificate (TCC) or a certificate of exemption from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD):

- Passengers traveling with a minor may be asked to present a DSWD TCC if the parents are not married and the minor is traveling without the mother; if the minor is traveling with a person other than his/her parent/s; or if the passenger is over 18 years old but unable to fully take care of himself/herself or protect himself/herself from abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation or discrimination because of a physical or mental disability or condition.

- Minors 13 years old and above who are traveling alone may be asked to present a DSWD TCC. Those below 13 years old are absolutely prohibited from traveling on their own.

- Passengers traveling with a minor may be asked to present a DSWD certificate of exemption from TCC if the parents are not married and the minor is traveling with the biological father who has sole parental authority or legal custody over the minor; or when the traveling companion is the legal guardian.

- A certificate of exemption from TCC may also be asked of orphans of married parents and who are traveling with the substitute parent/s (grandparent or nearest kin), as well as orphans of non-married parents and who are traveling with the substitute parent/s or nearest kin on maternal side.

Minors subject of adoption:

- For adopted minors with an Order of Adoption but pending issuance of a new PSA-issued birth certificate, a travel authority for the adoptive parent/s and adopted minor issued by the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) may be needed.

- Prospective adoptive parent/s traveling with a minor subject of pending domestic adoption proceedings may also need a DSWD travel clearance certificate if the proceedings are pending with the NACC. If the proceedings are pending in courts, what may be required is a manifestation or notice about the intended travel, duly received by the court where the case is pending, and filed at least 7 calendar days before the intended date of travel.

- Prospective adoptive parent/s traveling with a minor subject of pending inter-country adoption proceedings may be asked to present a travel authority for the prospective adoptive parent/s issued by the NACC; a travel clearance certificate for adoptee issued by the NACC; and clearance from the Commission on Filipinos Overseas.

FOR STUDENTS

Immigration officers may meanwhile ask for the following documents from students or scholars:

- Acceptance letter issued by the institution or school abroad

- Duly-notarized affidavit executed by the scholar/student indicating the name of the educational institution and the duration of the course or program of study

- Confirmed return or roundtrip ticket consistent with the duration of the program, if practicable

- Proof of financial capacity or academic scholarship/funding/support

- If applicable, endorsement from the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) for Arabic language scholars

- For basic education students under an international exchange program or joining a competition abroad, a certification issued by the School Division Superintendent shall be presented. If said student is a minor traveling without the parents/legal guardian, a DSWD travel clearance certificate shall also be required

Students under the International Student Affairs Program or Student Internship Abroad Program of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) may require an endorsement from CHED to be able to leave the country.

FOR OTHER KINDS OF PASSENGERS

Dependent family members joining an OFW at the job site:

- Valid dependent visa or any equivalent document

- Copies of the OFW’s valid visa and OEC, E-receipt, or OFW clearance

Passengers with prospective employers abroad:

- Confirmed return or roundtrip ticket consistent with the duration of the travel

- Relevant documents relating to the purpose of the travel

- Duly-notarized affidavit executed by the passenger indicating the purpose and duration of travel

Passengers traveling abroad for a compassionate or humanitarian visit to a Filipino overseas:

- Certification from the DMW or the Department of Foreign Affairs, through its foreign service posts, specifying the purpose of the travel

Passengers traveling for intra-company transfers or intra/inter-company trainings:

- Intra-company transferees: Proof of local employment as certified by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE); and secondment agreement between the local/domestic company and the foreign host company, as necessary

- Intra/Inter-company trainees: Proof of local employment as certified by DOLE; and traineeship agreement, duly authenticated by the Philippine embassy or consulate where the training or skills enhancement shall be conducted, as necessary

Filipino volunteer workers:

- Endorsement from the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency

Hajj pilgrims to Mecca:

- Endorsement/List of pilgrims from the NCMF

Filipino donor traveling for organ donation or organ transplantation:

- Department of Health clearance approving the organ donation or organ transplantation

Government-endorsed trainees for skills enhancement:

- Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI)’s trainees: DA-ATI endorsement

- TESDA Trainees for Agro-Studies: TESDA endorsement

- Other government-endorsed trainees: Endorsement from the concerned government agency

Non-government endorsed trainees for skills enhancement:

- Confirmed return or roundtrip ticket for programs 6 months and below

- Traineeship contract apostilled or duly authenticated by the Philippine embassy or consulate

- Duly-notarized affidavit executed by the trainee indicating the name of the training institution and the duration of the training

Passengers requiring clearance from the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO):

- Filipino spouse, fiancé(e), or a partner of a foreign national with immigrant/resident/spouse/long-term/partner/prospective-marriage/family-reunification visa and other similar visas

- First time Filipino emigrants, holders of residence visa or permit/holders of Permanent Resident Card registering for the first time with CFO

- Filipino J1 Visa Holders or Exchange Visitors Program Participants bound for the United States of America

- Passengers traveling under Au Pair Visa

According to the IACAT, passengers not specifically falling under any of the mentioned categories shall undergo the required immigration inspection and show documents “that would sufficiently establish their purpose of travel.”

Latest from this section

House adopts resolution thanking Marcos for ‘invaluable support’

De Lima: ‘Complete vindication’ is the goal

Senate puts ₱250M for IBC-13's budget next year

China Reopens Borders 2023 - Travel Restrictions Updates

• China reopens borders news (updated ...
• Can I travel to China now - China's ...
• Can Malaysians travel to China now?
• Can Singaporeans travel to China now...
• China’s visa-free policies restarted
• China visa restrictions
• Types of China visa for visitors
• Checklist for entering China after r...
• Latest Hong Kong and Macau travel re...

As the coronavirus pandemic ends, China has declared victory over the virus and dropped nearly all of its domestic Covid curbs and lockdowns. China has reverted to foreign tourists for the first time since the pandemic began, fully reopened its borders to allow international travel.

Effective from August 30, COVID-19 testing is no longer a requirement for travellers entering China. This signifies a return to the pre-pandemic entry process. 

Additionally, starting from July 26, citizens of Singapore and Brunei holding ordinary passports can now benefit from a 15-day visa-free policy when visiting China for various purposes including business, tourism, family visits, and transit.

From March 15, anyone with a valid dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa (including dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visas applied before March 28, 2020) can enter dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China without needing to apply for a new one.

All categories of visa applications, including tourist visas (L visas), have now resumed, and visa-free policies have been reinstated.

It may even be your chance to expand your business to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China after the government's long shield of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827527" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827527"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827527" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827527">'s borders from the dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827552" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827552">rest of the world .

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China reopens borders news (updated August, 2023)

Effective from August 30, COVID-19 testing is no longer a requirement for travellers entering China. Whether vaccinated or not, you're no longer required to quarantine upon arriving in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China and you don't need to apply for a health code. 

From July 26, Singaporean and Bruneian citizens holding ordinary passports can enjoy a 15-day visa-free policy for visiting China for tourism, business, visiting relatives and friends, and transit purposes.

From April 29, all international travellers entering China will only need to take a rapid antigen test (RAT) instead of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827526" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827526">test .

All types of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa applications have been resumed, including the tourist dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa and 10-year dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa . dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">Visa -free policies have also been reinstated: dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free entry for Hainan, dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827517" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827517">Shanghai International cruise arrival, Guangdong for Tourist group entry of foreigners from dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong , dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827557" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827557">Macau , and ASEAN tourist groups entering Guilin, Guangxi will be restored.

Under the new 144-hour dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free transit policy, you can travel to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China without applying for a new dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa if you’re from these 53 countries . However, travellers from Japan will still need to apply for a dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa before entry according to the List of Agreements on Mutual dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">Visa Exemption Between the People’s Republic of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China and Foreign Countries issued on February 22nd, 2023.

Tibet is popular among international business travellers and is officially reopened to foreign travellers. The local tourism bureau started to accept the applications for Tibet permits from March 15th 2023.   For more details, please check with related dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese authorities and local authorities for details on visas for foreigners. 

We will keep updating the latest entry policy on this page.

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">Can I travel to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China now - dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China 's current entry policy 

Now that travel to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China is possible, you can consider expanding your business into this fastest growing emerging market. To enter dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China here’re some conditions you may need to fulfil: 

Hold a valid dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese residence permit for work, study, personal matters, or family dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827521" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827521">reunions , i.e. the Z-, M-, R-, X1, Q-, and dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">S-visas

Hold a diplomatic, service, courtesy, or C dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa

Hold a valid APEC business card

Do I still need to take a PCR test to enter China?

Effective from August 30, COVID-19 testing is no longer a requirement for travellers entering China. 

Can Malaysians travel to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China now?

Just like all foreign travellers, Malaysians are required to have a dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa before entering dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China . You can obtain your dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa from the dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese Embassy in Kuala Lumpur or other countries. Since dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827558" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827558">Malaysia doesn’t fall into dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China ’ dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">s visa -free countries, it’s best to apply for a APEC business card for quick and easy business travel across the region. If you’re considering expanding your business and operating in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China , an APEC card is a good way to help your business operate seamlessly. It’ll give you special benefits such as fast track lanes at the airport, dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free travel, and multiple entries to the participating APEC countries, including Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan (Chinese Taipei), Thailand and Vietnam. 

Can Singaporeans travel to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China now?

Starting from July 26, Singaporean citizens holding ordinary passports can enjoy a 15-day visa-free policy for visiting China for business, tourism, family visits, and transit purposes. However, applying for an APEC card is a good way to enjoy more flexible business travels to China.

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China ’ dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">s visa -free policies restarted

With restrictions eased on dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827537" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827537">international flights , passengers can now take direct flights or transfer to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China .  

144-Hour dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free transit policy

To better serve tourists, dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China announced a 144-hour dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free transit policy, allowing travellers from 53 countries to enjoy a 6-day stay without a dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa .

Qualified tourists can enjoy "no- dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa " entry, which is time, money and energy-saving. This dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa applies to those transiting through dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China via the cities below. It’s also possible to travel within the region instead of having to stay within a single city. 

Region 1: Jing-Jin-Ji Region Movement areas: dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827512" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827512">Beijing , Tianjin, and Hebei Province

Region 2: Yangtze River Delta Movement areas: dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827517" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827517">Shanghai , Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, and all cities in Zhejiang & Jiangsu

• Region 3: Guangdong Province Movement areas: dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827549" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827549">Guangzhou , dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827529" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827529">Shenzhen , Zhuhai, Foshan, and all cities in Guangdong

Region 4: Liaoning Province Movement areas: Shenyang, Dalian, and all cities in Liaoning

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">Visa exemption for ASEAN tour groups to Guilin

In addition, tour groups and cruise ships from ASEAN member countries, including dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827558" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827558">Malaysia , dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827540" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827540">Thailand , Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827524" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827524">Singapore , Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines, can visit Guilin for 144 hours without dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visas as long as they meet the dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free transit policy requirements.

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827517" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827517">Shanghai dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free policy for cruise groups

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827517" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827517">Shanghai has a 15-day dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free policy for foreign tourist groups entering dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China via a cruise. You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese travel agent at the dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827517" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827517">Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

Hainan dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free access

No dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is required for staying on Hainan Island for up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders from 59 countries. Groups and individual tourists must dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827533" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827533">book a tour through an accredited travel agency. 

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">Visa exemption for the Pearl River Delta area

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827531" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827531">International travellers from dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong or dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827557" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827557">Macau are able to visit the Pearl River Delta area ( dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827549" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827549">Guangzhou , dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827529" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827529">Shenzhen , and Zhuhai, etc.) dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free as long as they go with a registered tour provider.

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China  dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa restrictions

The long wait is over! If you still hold a valid dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa (any type of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa including the tourist dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa and 10-year dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa ), you can use it to enter dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China , i.e. dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visas issued before March 28, 2020 and still valid.

If you don’t have a dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa or your dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa has expired, you can apply for a new one. Authorities have resumed issuing of various categories of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa s: Z-, M-, R-, X1, Q-, and dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">S-visas . Visitors can apply for a new dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa with a valid previously-granted dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa .

Types of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China  dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa for visitors

Tourists (l dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa ).

The L dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to those who intend to go to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China for sightseeing and touring.

Individual tourists can apply for single-entry (3-month validity), double-entry (3 to 6-month validity) or multiple-entry (valid for 6 months, or 1 year) tourist dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa based on own needs.

The L dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is currently available for application here .

Workers (Z dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa )

The Z dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to those who have obtained employment permits and intend to work in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China . 

Holder of Z dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa will be issued the dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China Residence Permit upon arrival in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China , which allows multiple entries for one year. 

The Z dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is currently available for application here . 

Business travellers (M- dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa & APEC Cards)

The M dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to those visiting dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China for business and trade purposes, which is ideal for foreigners who visit dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China frequently for short business trips. Executives would like to travel to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China can also apply for this dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa .

To become eligible, those who wish to apply must be invited to the country for business purposes by a dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China -based company.

The M dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is currently available for application here . Alternatively, APEC business card holders can enjoy up to 60 days of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free business trips in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China .

Highly-skilled individuals (R dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa )

The R dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to highly qualified talents or whose skills are urgently needed in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China , i.e. the tier A talents under dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China ’s new tiered work permit classification system. 

Spouses and children of R dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa holders will also be allowed to enter the country on an R dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa .

The R dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is currently available for application here .

Students (X dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa )

International students can now return to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China . The X dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to those who enter dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China for studies or fieldwork. Those holding a valid student residence permit can enter without applying for a new dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa .

The X1 dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to students whose study period is more than 180 days, while X2 dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is for a period of less than 6 months.

Only X1 dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is currently available for application here .

Family dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827521" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827521">reunion (S or Q dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa )

The dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">S visa is issued to relatives of foreigners who work or study in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China and is the equivalent of the Q dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa for the family of foreigners living in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China long-term.

The Q dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to foreigners visiting dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827555" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827555">family members of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827536" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827536"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827536" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827536"> citizens and to foreigners who are spouses of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827536" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827536"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827536" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827536"> citizens , including those who intend to visit dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China for personal purposes, such as foster care. As a result, unlike dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827543" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827543">last year , many can celebrate the dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827523" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827523">lunar new year together.

The S- and Q- dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visas are currently available for application here . 

Crew aviation (C dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa )

The C dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to crew-members on international aviation, sea navigation, and land transportation missions, and their accompanying dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827555" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827555">family members .

The C dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is currently available for application here .

Diplomatic, Service & Courtesy dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa

The diplomatic or service dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to diplomats, government officials, members of the Royal Family and Members of Parliament who intend to visit dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China on diplomatic or official purposes. In addition, British diplomatic passport holders enjoy dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa -free entry to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China .

The courtesy dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa is issued to those who are given courtesy due to their special status by the dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese Embassy and Consulates in the U.K., for example, diplomatic passport holders who travel to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China in private for tourism, visiting relatives or transit.

The diplomatic, service and courtesy dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visas are currently available for application here .

Checklist for entering dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China after dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827516" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827516">reopening

Before you enter dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China , make sure you complete the followings:

Have a valid permit, dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa , or ID card to enter dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China .

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827533" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827533">Book a flight to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China and check the schedule frequently (both direct flights and transferring flights are allowed).

No more COVID-19 testing!

Prepare your ID card or passport with permit/ dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa.

Latest dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong and  dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827557" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827557">Macau  dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827522" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827522">travel restrictions

Dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">hong kong entry requirement and travel advice.

International travellers bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 test (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

Whether vaccinated or not, you can enter dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong freely. Travellers are no longer required to wear masks indoors, outdoors, or on public transport carriers in dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong . However, mask wearing is still required at some high-risk premises, such as hospitals and other healthcare facilities. 

Travellers can visit dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong with no quarantine, no testing, and no dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827518" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827518">vaccination requirements. Normal travel between dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong and dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827515" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827515">Mainland  dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827515" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827515">China has fully resumed. There’s no more daily quota for entry to dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong .

Even if you feel unwell or test positive for Covid-19, no quarantine is required. However, you are advised to adopt health measures for preventing respiratory diseases. If you require medical care, you may visit any of the private medical practitioners listed on the Government’s websites for the prescription of COVID-19 oral drugs and further assistance.

dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827557" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827557">Macau entry requirement and travel advice

You don't need a COVID-19 dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827518" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827518">vaccination to enter dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827557" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827557">Macau , and there're no quarantine or other testing requirements after arrival for all countries. International travellers bound for Macau will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 test (no PCR test, no RAT test) .

Entering dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China via dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827513" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827513">Hong Kong and dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827557" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827557">Macau is also feasible, but just make sure you hold a valid dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827519" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827519">visa , testing is no longer required. For more details, please check with related dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827510" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827510">Chinese authorities and local authorities.

After a long wait of three years, dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China is dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827516" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827516">reopening borders to foreigners, welcoming foreign investments and dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827531" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827531">international travel with  million cross border trips, which is expected to give a significant boost to the tourist industry and the country's gross domestic product. So let's tap into the opportunity of dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827527" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827527"> dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827509" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827509">China dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827527" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827527">'s borders dropdown#toggle" data-dropdown-menu-id-param="menu_term_250827516" data-dropdown-placement-param="top" data-term-id="250827516">reopening and navigate your business into growth and expansion.

For more tips on how to expand your business,  you can join Business Go for FREE . 

Most popular

Stay up to date with business go.

Subscribe to our newsletter to obtain latest articles, events and offers that are tailored to you

Further reads

Hsbc visiongo – brain trust for gba businesses looking to go global, job opportunities and challenges faced by hong kong youths in the greater bay area.

Articles Travel Requirements - China

Explore other articles and discussions on this topic.

Destinations requiring additional travel documents

• Customers who have a valid travel visa issued are permitted to enter China.
• A Negative PCR test report is also required, and the 'sample collection time' should be no more than 48 hours before your flight's exact scheduled departure time. 
• Customers are required to fill out a health declaration form which is located here . After completing the health declaration form, a QR code will be issued. 

With these three requirements satisfied, customers are able to check-in and embark on their journey with us from Tel Aviv to the Chinese Mainland. 

Please note: Hong Kong does not require the aforementioned. Passengers holding an Israeli passport are granted 90 days visa-free stay in Hong Kong for business or tourist purposes. The Hong Kong Government continues to advise all inbound travellers to conduct daily rapid antigen tests from the day of arrival into Hong Kong (i.e. Day 0) and Day 5 after arrival.

• Proof of vaccination (3 doses) OR a pre-departure PCR test report taken no more than 72 hours before your flight's exact scheduled time of depature. 
• Customers are required to fill out a health declaration form which is located here.  

Philippines Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens: Requirements & How to Apply

Can China citizens enter the Philippines?

Do chinese nationals need a tourist visa for the philippines, how long can chinese tourists stay in the philippines, i am a chinese national with a valid american, japanese, australian, canadian, or (ajacs) visa. do i need to apply for a philippine visa, can chinese tourists apply for a philippine visa on arrival, what are the requirements for applying for a philippines tourist visa for chinese citizens, additional requirements for tourism or leisure visitors or 9(a-2), additional requirements for business visitors or 9(a-1), additional requirements for unaccompanied minors, how do i apply for a philippine tourist visa as a chinese national, how long does it take to process a philippines tourist visa application for chinese nationals, can i extend a philippines tourist visa for chinese nationals, how long can i get a philippines tourist visa extension for chinese nationals, tips and reminders for chinese nationals applying for philippine tourist visa.

• Top tourist spots in Luzon
• Top tourist spots in Visayas
• Top tourist spots in Mindanao
• Book packages that will fit your Philippine itinerary

Chinese tourists are required to apply for a Philippine tourist visa before they can visit the country and explore its many tourist destinations. This guide lists the visa requirements for Chinese citizens and details how to apply for a Philippine visa so you know what to prepare for your trip.

See our popular Philippines Vacation Packages

Mithi resort bohol package for 4 days with airfare from manila, 3d2n crimson boracay package with airfare from manila & airport transfers, 4d3n boracay package with airfare | crimson resort from manila.

See our popular Top Tours in the Philippines

Boracay island hopping shared tour with lunch, kawa hot bath & snorkeling package, shared puerto princesa underground river tour in palawan with lunch & hotel transfers, coron island hopping tour to kayangan lake & barracuda lake | palawan super ultimate package.

The maximum allowable days a Philippines visa holder can stay in the country is 59 days, but this will still depend on the type of visa given to you. However, those who wish to extend their stay beyond 59 days may apply for an extension of authorized stay. They can apply for this at the Bureau of Immigration Main Office or other authorized immigration offices in the Philippines. This extension requires tourists to pay a fee. The total amount will depend on the applicant’s age and length of extension.

Note that this does not apply to business travelers, who would still need to apply for a business visa.

No. China is not included in the list of countries whose citizens can apply for a visa on arrival. Chinese tourists need to apply for a Philippine visa in advance.

See our popular Boracay Vacation Packages

4d3n movenpick boracay 5-star resort package with airfare from manila.

Minimum Requirements for Temporary Visitor’s Visa or 9(a) - including visitors coming for business, leisure, medical treatment, training, or attendance in conferences and meetings

A filled-out visa application form

A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the authorized period of stay in the Philippines

A travel itinerary or reservations for flights to the Philippines (it is not advisable to purchase the ticket before you are granted a visa) 

Proof of status as a tourist or a businessman

Two passport-size photos taken within three months of application

Hotel booking in the Philippines or proof of lodging (it is not advisable to pay for your room before you are granted a visa) 

Payment of visa fee

Personal appearance of the visa applicant. Exemptions may be made for non-appearing applicants, depending on the embassy or consulate. They may need to mail in their requirements or send a representative with their notarized visa application and a notarized authorization letter.

Proof of financial capacity, which include but are not limited to:

Bank statements for the last 6 months

Employment certificate

Guarantee from a sponsor with their own proof of financial capacity

Proof of ties to the home country, which include but are not limited to:

Property ownership documents

If you are visiting someone in the Philippines, a letter of invitation from them

Additional requirements that may be requested by the visa officer

See our popular Cebu Tours and Activities

Cebu canyoneering to alegria falls, oslob whale shark tour & tumalog falls | meals & hotel transfers, oslob cebu whale shark watching tour with moalboal sardine run, tumalog falls, & sumilon island, cebu kawasan falls canyoneering shared tour with lunch & transfers from cebu city.

Personal appearance of the visa applicant

For business owners:

A photocopy of the data and signature pages of their passport 

The original copy of the invitation letter from the Philippine government or a private entity or endorsement from a chamber of commerce in the country where the business is located

Proof of business operations and income, which include but are not limited to business permit, business license, business registration, bank statement, or tax statement for the last 6 months

For employees:

Certificate of employment of letter of guarantee from the company or sponsor

Endorsement letter from the applicant’s company

Children less than 15 years old who will not be accompanied by either parent must apply for a Waiver of Exclusion Ground or WEG, which has the following requirements:

Notarized affidavit of consent by either parent or the legally appointed guardian of the child, which names the person who will be accompanying the child to the Philippines and with whom the child will stay during their visit

A photocopy of the data page of the child’s passport

A photocopy of the data page of the accompanying adult or guardian’s passport

Payment of fees

See our popular Cebu Vacation Packages

4-day cebu to bohol cultural & nature sightseeing tour itinerary philippines package, 3d2n dusit mactan resort cebu package with airfare from manila, 3d2n bluewater maribago resort cebu package with airfare from manila.

1. For a fuss-free application, contact the Philippine Embassy or Consulate you want to file your application with and verify their list of requirements for a tourist visa application.

2. Compile all the documentary requirements.

3. Visit visa.gov.ph and choose China as your country of citizenship. Make sure that you have access to a printer and a scanner or camera, as you would need to print, sign, and then upload your application form.

4. Proceed and click the “Apply For Individual Visa” button.

5. Fill out the application form. Double-check all entries to ensure that there are no errors.

6. When you are done, print your application form, sign it, and upload the signed form, your ID photo, and a copy of your passport. 

7. If you are applying in person, check the submission times of the embassy or consulate you are applying with. Note that while some embassies and consulate offices allow walk-in applicants, some may require that you get an appointment.

8. If the embassy or consulate you are applying with allows a mail-in option and you plan to apply this way, you need to have your visa application form notarized. Send this, along with a cover letter and the other requirements, in a packet to the embassy or consulate. Note that some embassies and consulate offices have different requirements for mail-in applications, so make sure to follow what applies to you.

9. Wait for your visa application to be processed. If your visa application is approved, it may be mailed to you, or you may need to pick it up at the embassy or consulate. 

The processing of your Philippine tourist visa depends on which embassy or consulate you filed your application with. Some offices may take as quick as 2 working days, while some may take 2 weeks or even longer. 

After submitting your requirements to the Bureau of Immigration, and if you have no derogatory records, a clearance certificate shall be issued. After payment of the necessary fees, you will be able to claim your passport stamped with the extension of your stay.

See our popular Boracay Tours and Activities

Boracay island hopping package private tour with lunch, snorkeling gears & kawa hot bath.

Thanks to the Philippine Bureau of Immigration’s Long-Stay Visitor Visa Extension (LSVVE) Program, passport holders of visa-required countries, including China, can stay a maximum of 24 months from their first arrival in the Philippines.

The requirements, guidelines, processing times, and fees vary from one embassy or consulate office to another. Make sure you reach out to them before starting your application to ensure you have the correct information to avoid delays on your application.

Some documents issued outside the Philippines, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, and qualifications, have to be verified by a Philippine Embassy before they can be submitted as part of your application.

Documents that are not in either English or Filipino must be translated professionally before they can be submitted as part of your application.

Submitting your application does not guarantee that you will be granted a visa. It is not recommended to pay for tickets or accommodations before you are granted a visa. Note that only reservations and not paid bookings for Philippine travel packages are required for your application. 

Make sure you allot enough time for your visa application to be processed before your actual trip. The embassies and consulate offices will not expedite your visa application just because your departure date is nearing.

Note that after you have paid your visa application fees, it will not be refunded, regardless if your application is approved or denied.

Rent a car in the Philippines

Book tours:

Philippine island hopping tours

Philippine whale shark tours

Philippine firefly river tours

Philippine canyoneering tours

To make your trip even more hassle-free, make sure to read up on Philippine travel requirements and our Philippine travel guide .

Popular articles

Best Palawan Guide: Top Tours, Where to Stay, How to Get Around

20 Most Beautiful Sandbars in the Philippines: White Sand, Longest, Vanishing

11 Best Santorini-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Vigan

15 Best Tropical Bali-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Siargao, Cebu, Bohol

10 Best Treehouse Resorts in the Philippines for a Scenic Getaway at Mountains, Beaches & Rivers

Other interesting articles.

North Luzon Travel Guide: Explore Highlands of Baguio, Sagada, and More

18 Best Beaches in Palawan to Visit: White Sand, El Nido, Coron

Vigan Ilocos Sur Travel Guide: What to Do + Hotels + Itinerary

Top things to do in the philippines.

Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines

Philippines Tour Packages

Boracay Island

Bohol Island

Cebu Island

Coron Palawan

El Nido Palawan

Siargao Island

Iloilo City and Nearby

Caution November 14, 2023

Worldwide caution, update november 14, 2023, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Philippines Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, philippines - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution to the Philippines due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.  Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• The Sulu Archipelago, including the southern Sulu Sea, due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping .
• Marawi City in Mindanao due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Reconsider Travel to:

• Other areas of Mindanao due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping .

Country Summary : Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The Philippine government has declared a “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.”

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the Philippines.

If you decide to travel to the Philippines:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Avoid demonstrations. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the Philippines.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

The Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings on land and at sea for ransom, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to those areas.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Marawi City in Mindanao – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Civilians are at risk of death or injury due to conflict between remnants of terrorist groups and Philippine security forces in Marawi.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mindanao as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Mindanao – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The Philippine government maintains a state of emergency and greater police presence in the Cotabato City area, and in the Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, philippines map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit: