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Travel to China is heavily restricted, but not impossible: How to get there during COVID

• There are many steps if you want to travel to China, the first being that you need to obtain permission to enter.
• You'll need to prepare your physical application to mail to the consulate.
• Research feasible flights to China, considering your timeline and budget.

With the persistence of COVID-19, China has continued to enforce strict travel policies for United States visitors. The entire process, from obtaining a visa to PCR testing, can feel complicated. To navigate regulations and restrictions, here is a step-by-step guide of the experience traveling to China for humanitarian needs. 

Keep in mind: while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention categorized China as low-level of COVID-19 cases , the federal agency is continuing to urge travelers to remain up to date with vaccinations.

First, you need to obtain permission to enter China. In my case, my grandmother was hospitalized under critical health conditions.

You can apply for a visa by searching for and emailing your local consulate (such as one in New York, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., etc). For me, the New York consulate’s email address is [email protected] . You'll need to specify your reason for travel, such as needing to attend to a severely ill family member. 

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Depending on your situation, necessary documents can include proof of kinship to the invitee in China such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, and hospital diagnosis documents such as an official seal from the hospital or a letter from a doctor. If there is no missing information and the details you provided are verified as true, another email will be sent in a couple of days for you to complete.

Second, prepare your physical application to mail to the consulate. To receive your visa, refer and adhere to the information requested in your communication with the consulate office. Be prepared to package these items in an envelope:

• An original passport with six months validity and at least one blank visa page
• One copy of the passport data page
• A visa application form and confirmation page
• Passport photo with these requirements
• Proof of residency, such as a copy of your driver’s license, or water or electricity bills
• Supplemental material requested by the consulate such as an invitation letter from your relative in China, hospital records and vaccination history
• A return envelope to mail the visa and passport back to you
• The envelope must be a U.S. Postal Service priority mail express envelope and prepaid with your name, address, and telephone number

The total visa fee will be around $150 for each passport holder and must be paid to the Chinese consulate by money order or check.

Ensure your application materials are prepared in order and adhere to the consulate's guidelines. The address of each consulate varies based on your location. It is essential to meet the criterion above to ensure the speed and potential of receiving your visa.

Third, wait five to ten days for your visa to arrive in the mail. In my experience, the process took a week. Research feasible flights to China, considering your timeline and budget. Sites like flychina.com list possible travel options. Keep in mind that transfer flights are unallowed – all flights must directly land in China. 

If you are fully vaccinated with non-inactivated vaccines including Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, partially vaccinated, or unvaccinated, follow the following guidelines set out by the Chinese consulate before boarding the plane:

• Take your first PCR test at your flight departure city up to seven days before boarding
• Starting from the date of your first nucleic test and remain in your departure city and monitor your health for seven days with a personal health monitoring form .
• Within 48 hours before departure, take a second PCR test and an antibody test at a designated facility in the departure city
• Submit all your test reports, monitoring forms, and letter of commitment on COVID-19 vaccination on the China Health Declaration Certificate website

For more details, visit the embassy site . The consulate will approve your report within 12 hours based on your test results.

At the airport, you will complete an online customer form. Along with your health declaration and other documents, you can board the plane and begin the flight to China. 

The stress of returning to a sick loved one can be distracting and frightening. But if you pay attention to the necessary steps outlined by the consulate, the process can be completed with ease. 

Michelle Liu is a writer based in Providence, Rhode Island. You can follow her on Twitter  @michelleliu83 .

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CDC Announces Negative COVID-19 Test Requirement from Air Passengers Entering the United States from the People’s Republic of China

For Immediate Release: December 28, 2022 Contact: Media Relations (404) 639-3286

CDC is announcing today that it will implement a requirement for a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of recovery for air passengers boarding flights to the United States originating from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau. CDC is announcing this step to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the United States during the surge in COVID-19 cases in the PRC given the lack of adequate and transparent epidemiological and viral genomic sequence data being reported from the PRC. These data are critical to monitor the case surge effectively and decrease the chance for entry of a novel variant of concern.  CDC will continue to monitor the situation and adjust our approach as necessary.

Variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continue to emerge in countries around the world. However, reduced testing and case reporting in the PRC and minimal sharing of viral genomic sequence data could delay the identification of new variants of concern if they arise. Pre-departure testing and the requirement to show a negative test result has been shown to decrease the number of infected passengers boarding airplanes, and it will help to slow the spread of the virus as we work to identify and understand any potential new variants that may emerge.

Starting at 12:01 AM ET on January 5, all air passengers two years and older originating from the PRC will be required to get a test (such as a PCR test or an antigen self-test administered and monitored by a telehealth service or a licensed provider and authorized by the Food and Drug Administration or the relevant national authority) no more than 2 days before their departure from the PRC, Hong Kong, or Macau, and show a negative test result to the airline upon departure.

• The requirement applies to these air passengers regardless of nationality and vaccination status.
• This will also apply to persons traveling from the PRC via third country transit and to passengers connecting through the United States onward to further destinations.
• Along with applying this requirement to direct flights from the PRC, passengers transiting Incheon International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Vancouver International Airport on their way to the United States will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test if they have been in the PRC in the last 10 days no more than 2 days before their departure to the United States. These three transit hubs cover the overwhelming majority of passengers with travel originating in the PRC and the Special Administrative Regions. We will continue to monitor travel patterns, adjust our approach as needed, and keep Americans informed in a timely manner.
• Passengers who tested positive more than 10 days before the flight can provide documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in lieu of a negative test result.
• Airlines must confirm the negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery for all passengers before they board or deny boarding to the passenger.

CDC is also expanding the Traveler-based Genomic Surveillance program (TGS), a voluntary program that serves as an early warning system to detect and characterize new and rare variants of the virus that causes COVID-19.  TGS collects anonymous nasal swabs from arriving international travelers on selected flights at major U.S. international airports. The program tests for presence of the COVID-19 virus, and if it is detected, the program sequences the virus’s genome to identify any new variants. The program is expanding by adding additional airports (Los Angeles and Seattle)—bringing the total number of airports to seven and number of weekly flights covered to approximately 500 from at least 30 countries across all World Health Organization (WHO) regions.  This includes approximately 290 weekly flights from PRC and surrounding areas.

TGS has proven to overcome gaps in global SARS-CoV-2 variant surveillance that occur as many countries decrease or discontinue testing and sequencing. During the initial weeks of the Omicron surge, TGS detected two Omicron subvariants, BA.2 and BA.3, and reported them to the global database weeks before they were reported elsewhere, demonstrating that the program is able to detect variants early.

The approach laid out, when layered with existing CDC recommendations such as masking during travel, self-monitoring for symptoms, and testing for three days after arrival from international travel, will help make travel safer, healthier, and more responsible by reducing spread on planes, in airports, and at destinations and to be on alert for any potential variants emerging. Our new testing policy, along with expansion of TGS, will help to protect travelers and the health and safety of American communities.

CDC also continues to work with WHO and partner countries to enhance sequencing capacity and improve the global capacity to detect new variants.

This order will become effective on January 5, 2023, at 12:01 AM ET. More information will be made available by CDC in the coming days. For a list of authorized tests, check here .

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Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S.

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has required non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  On April 21, 2022, DHS announced that it would extend these requirements. In determining whether and when to rescind this order, DHS anticipates that it will take account of whether the vaccination requirement for non-U.S. air travelers remains in place.

These requirements apply to non-U.S. individuals who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals.

Effective November 8, 2021, new air travel requirements applied to many noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily. These travelers are also required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. All air travelers, including U.S. persons, must test negative for COVID-19 prior to departure. Limited exceptions apply. See  CDC guidance  for more details regarding air travel requirements.

Below is more information about what to know before you go, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about cross-border travel.

Entering the U.S. Through a Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Q. what are the requirements for travelers entering the united states through land poes.

A:  Before embarking on a trip to the United States, non-U.S. travelers should be prepared for the following:

• Possess proof of an approved COVID-19 vaccination as outlined on the  CDC  website.
• During border inspection, verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status. 
• Bring a  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  compliant border crossing document, such as a valid passport (and visa if required), Trusted Traveler Program card, a Department of State-issued Border Crossing Card, Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Tribal Card when entering the country. Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should be prepared to present the WHTI-compliant document and any other documents requested by the CBP officer.

 Q. What are the requirements to enter the United States for children under the age of 18 who can't be vaccinated?

A:  Children under 18 years of age are excepted from the vaccination requirement at land and ferry POEs.

Q: Which vaccines/combination of vaccines will be accepted?

A:  Per CDC guidelines, all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and authorized vaccines, as well as all vaccines that have an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO), will be accepted.

Accepted Vaccines:

• More details are available in CDC guidance  here .
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose COVID-19 vaccine;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart.

Q. Is the United States requiring travelers to have a booster dose to be considered fully vaccinated for border entry purposes?

A:  No. The CDC guidance for “full vaccination” can be found here.

Q: Do U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land POEs and ferry terminals?

A:  No. Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation.

Q: Is pre- or at-arrival COVID testing required to enter the United States via land POEs or ferry terminals?

A: No, there is no COVID testing requirement to enter the United States via land POE or ferry terminals. In this respect, the requirement for entering by a land POE or ferry terminal differs from arrival via air, where there is a requirement to have a negative test result before departure.

Processing Changes Announced on January 22, 2022 

Q: new changes were recently announced. what changed on january 22.

A:  Since January 22, 2022, non-citizens who are not U.S. nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents have been required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States at land ports of entry and ferry terminals, whether for essential or nonessential purposes. Previously, DHS required that non-U.S. persons be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States for nonessential purposes.  Effective January 22, all non-U.S. individuals, to include essential travelers, must be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request. DHS announced an extension of this policy on April 21, 2022.

Q: Who is affected by the changes announced on January 22?

A: This requirement does not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. It applies to other noncitizens, such as a citizen of Mexico, Canada, or any other country seeking to enter the United States through a land port of entry or ferry terminal.

Q: Do U.S. citizens need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land port of entry or ferry terminals?

A: Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. Citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation. 

Q: What is essential travel?

A:  Under the prior policy, there was an exception from temporary travel restrictions for “essential travel.” Essential travel included travel to attend educational institutions, travel to work in the United States, travel for emergency response and public health purposes, and travel for lawful cross-border trade (e.g., commercial truckers). Under current policy, there is no exception for essential travel.

Q: Will there be any exemptions? 

A: While most non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States will need to be vaccinated, there is a narrow list of exemptions consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Order in the air travel context.

• Certain categories of individuals on diplomatic or official foreign government travel as specified in the CDC Order
• Children under 18 years of age;
• Certain participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials as specified in the CDC Order;   
• Individuals with medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine as specified in the CDC Order;
• Individuals issued a humanitarian or emergency exception by the Secretary of Homeland Security;
• Individuals with valid nonimmigrant visas (excluding B-1 [business] or B-2 [tourism] visas) who are citizens of a country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability, as specified in the CDC Order
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age) as specified in the CDC Order; and
• Individuals whose entry would be in the U.S. national interest, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Q: What documentation will be required to show vaccination status?

A:  Non-U.S. individuals are required to be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request regardless of the purpose of travel.

The current documentation requirement remains the same and is available on the CDC website . Documentation requirements for entry at land ports of entry and ferry terminals mirror those for entry by air.

Q: What happens if someone doesn’t have proof of vaccine status?

A: If non-U.S. individuals cannot present proof of vaccination upon request, they will not be admitted into the United States and will either be subject to removal or be allowed to withdraw their application for entry.

Q: Will incoming travelers be required to present COVID-19 test results?

A: There is no COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers at land border ports of entry, including ferry terminals.

Q: What does this mean for those who can't be vaccinated, either due to age or other health considerations? 

A: See CDC guidance for additional information on this topic. Note that the vaccine requirement does not apply to children under 18 years of age.

Q: Does this requirement apply to amateur and professional athletes?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions.

Q: Are commercial truckers required to be vaccinated?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions. These requirements also apply to bus drivers as well as rail and ferry operators.

Q. Do you expect border wait times to increase?

A:  As travelers navigate these new travel requirements, wait times may increase. Travelers should account for the possibility of longer than normal wait times and lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are kindly encouraged to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers can take advantage of innovative technology, such as facial biometrics and the CBP OneTM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Q: How is Customs and Border Protection staffing the ports of entry? 

A: CBP’s current staffing levels at ports of entry throughout the United States are commensurate with pre-pandemic levels. CBP has continued to hire and train new employees throughout the pandemic. CBP expects some travelers to be non-compliant with the proof of vaccination requirements, which may at times lead to an increase in border wait times. Although trade and travel facilitation remain a priority, we cannot compromise national security, which is our primary mission. CBP Office of Field Operations will continue to dedicate its finite resources to the processing of arriving traffic with emphasis on trade facilitation to ensure economic recovery.

Q: What happens if a vaccinated individual is traveling with an unvaccinated individual?  

A:  The unvaccinated individual (if 18 or over) would not be eligible for admission.

Q: If I am traveling for an essential reason but am not vaccinated can I still enter?

A:  No, if you are a non-U.S. individual. The policy announced on January 22, 2022 applies to both essential and non-essential travel by non-U.S. individual travelers. Since January 22, DHS has required that all inbound non-U.S. individuals crossing U.S. land or ferry POEs – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request.

Q: Are sea crew members on vessels required to have a COVID vaccine to disembark?

A:  Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 or D nonimmigrant visa are not excepted from COVID-19 vaccine requirements at the land border. This is a difference from the international air transportation context.

Entering the U.S. via Air Travel

Q: what are the covid vaccination requirements for air passengers to the united states  .

A:  According to CDC requirements [www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html | Link no longer valid], most noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily must be fully vaccinated prior to boarding a flight to the United States. These travelers are required to show proof of vaccination. A list of covered individuals is available on the CDC website.  

Q: What are the COVID testing requirements for air passengers to the United States?  

A:  Effective Sunday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. ET, CDC will no longer require pre-departure COVID-19 testing for U.S.-bound air travelers.

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U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

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Reciprocity Schedule

Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.

Explanation of Terms

Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.

Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).

Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.

Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.

Visa Classifications

Country specific footnotes.

All NIV adjudicating posts worldwide must annotate each 10-year, multiple-entry, B-1/B-2, B-1, or B-2 visa issued in a People's Republic of China passport.

Visa annotation must read:

EVUS Enrollment required beginning November 29, 2016. Details at  www.cbp.gov/EVUS Subsequent to the November 29, 2016 start date of the program, the annotation will be: EVUS enrollment required Details at  www.cbp.gov/EVUS

B1, B2, and B1/B2 visas for Chinese Communist Party members, their spouses, and children under the age of 21 will be limited to one month, single entry.

Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.

Visa Category Footnotes

The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:

• G-1 through G-4
• NATO 1 through NATO 6

An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident or national of a country without a treaty.  *When the spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status and are themselves a national of a country that does not have a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principal alien’s country of nationality should be used.  **Spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 visa principal applicant, where the spouse and children are also nationals of a country that has a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the spouse and children’s country of nationality should be used.  

*Example 1: John Doe is a national of Country A that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country B which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as John Doe, the principal visa holder. **Example 2:  Mike Doe is a national of Country Y that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country Z that also has a treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the reciprocity issued to nationals of Country Z.

The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.

Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.  

Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.

There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.

Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.

In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).

However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.

Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.

Canadian Nationals

Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.

Mexican Nationals

Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.

Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi, Libyan, Somalian, Sudanese, Syrian or Yemeni nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.

Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.

No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.

V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.

Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:

• T-2 (spouse)
• T-3 (child)
• T-4 (parent)

The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.

The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

General Documents

Most of the documents listed below can be obtained from one of China's Notarial Offices (Gong Zheng Chu). All Chinese documentation to be used abroad is processed through the notary offices and issued in the form of notarial certificates. 

Notaries in China do not perform the same functions as their American counterparts. Chinese notaries affix their signatures and office seal to certificates that attest to the integrity of claims made by the applicants. By regulation, notaries are empowered to issue certificates only after they conclude that the applicant's claims are true. Although these certificates are secondary evidence, they are used because primary evidence is not standardized, is easily forged, and can be difficult to evaluate. Notarial certificates are easier to interpret than primary evidence and in principle represent an expert judgment on the part of the notary official as to the facts documented. Generally notarial certificates issued in China are reliable; However, in rare cases we have seen evidence of fraud.

Individuals residing outside of China may obtain notarial certificates from the notarial office with jurisdiction over the county of previous residence. Chinese relatives or friends may request issuance of certificates on behalf of someone now living abroad. Relatives and friends should have specific written authorization from the interested party before they request certificates.

General Issuing Authority Information

Notarial offices are located in all major Chinese cities and in rural county seats. These offices are part of the Ministry of Justice structure.

Birth, Death, Burial Certificates

Birth certificates.

Fees: Varies. Normally RMB 200 - 300  (Notarization Fee: RMB 80 + Translation Fee: Non-standard)

Document Name: Notarial certificate (Gong Zheng Shu)

Issuing Authority: Local Notary Public Office (Gong Zheng Chu)

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: A notarial birth certificate normally contains a watermark, seal, and red stamp. It indicates the applicant’s name, gender, date of birth, ID number, place of birth, and both parents’ names.  NOTE: Notarial birth certificates issued prior to 2012 may not list the ID number.  All notarial documents must have an English translation, and be attached with a certificate stating that the English translation is in conformity with the Chinese original.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Notary Public (Gong Zheng Yuan)

Registration Criteria:

• A National ID and household registration (Hu Kou Bu).  If the applicant lives abroad, a copy of his or her passport is also required. 
• Birth certificate (Chu Sheng Zheng Ming Shu) or medical certificate of birth (Chu Sheng Yi Xue Zheng Ming) issued by the hospital
• Initial Birth Record issued by the Household Registration Department of the local Public Security Bureau
• Proof of birth issued by the sub-district office or the Personnel Department of Work Unit  
• Photographs - at least two.
• A signed affidavit or authorization certificate from the applicant if someone other than the applicant applies for the certificate on his or her behalf.  The authorized person also needs to provide his/her national ID.   
• Documentation of both parents’ identification.  If deceased, a death certificate is required.   
• Other documents requested by the Notary Public (Gong Zheng Yuan).

Procedure for Obtaining:

• Complete an application and submit all relevant documents to the Notary Public Office (Gong Zheng Chu).
• The Notary Public then examines the documents. If the application is accepted, the applicant pays all related notary fees.
• Once the review of the submitted documentation is completed, the notarial birth certificate is issued.

Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available.

Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents.

Exceptions: None

Comments: Applicants should check the website or contact their local Notary Public Office to obtain specific information regarding required fees and supporting documents. 

Death/Burial

Fees: Varies.  Normally RMB 200 - 300  (Notarization Fee: RMB 80 + Translation Fee: on-standard)

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format:   A notarial death certificate normally contains a watermark, seal, and red stamp. It must indicate the decedent’s name, gender, date of death, place of death, and cause of death.  Note : Notarial death certificates do not always list the specific cause of death. All notarized documents must have an English translation, and be attached to a certificate stating that the English translation is in conformity with the Chinese original.

• A National ID card or passport, and household registration (Hu Kou Bu). 
• Decedent’s household registration (Hu Kou Bu), or residence certificate issued by the local Public Security Bureau.
• Medical certificate of death issued by the hospital.
• Death certificate or cancellation of the household registration indicating the date of death, issued by the local Public Security Bureau.
• Proof of cremation. 
• Written judgement of declaration of death. 
• Proof of relationship between the decedent and the applicant – for example: birth certificate, marriage certificate, or household registration. 
• A signed affidavit or authorization certificate from the applicant if someone other than the applicant applies for the certificate on his or her behalf.  The authorized person also needs to provide his/her national ID card.   
• Other documents requested by the Notary Public (Gong Zheng Yuan).     
• Complete and submit all relevant documents to the Notary Public Office (Gong Zheng Chu).
• The Notary Public then examines the documents.  If the application is accepted, the applicant pays all related notary fees.
• Once the review of the submitted documents is completed, the notarial death certificate is issued. 

Comments: Applicants should check the website or contact their local Notary Public Office to obtain specific information regarding required fees and supporting documents. edical certificate of death issued by the hospital.

Marriage, Divorce Certificates

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format:

• Notarial Certificate for Marriage: Certifies the authenticity and legality of the marriage. It indicates the couple’s names, and the date and place of marriage
• Notarial Marriage Certificate: Certifies the authenticity of the original marriage certificate, and that the photocopy of the marriage certificate is in accordance with the original.  
• A notarial marriage certificate normally contains a watermark, seal, and red stamp; except for the copies of the original marriage certificate. All notarial documents must have an English translation, and be attached to a certificate stating that the English translation is in conformity with the Chinese original.
• A National ID card and household registration (Hu Kou Bu).  If the applicant lives abroad, a copy of his or her passport is also required.
• If the applicant is a foreign passport holder, or a Taiwan/Hong Kong/Macau resident; the passport or the mainland travel permit is required.
• Original marriage certificate.
• A signed affidavit or authorization certificate from the applicant if someone other than the applicant applies for the certificate on his or her behalf. The authorized person also needs to provide his/her national ID card.
• Once the review of the submitted documents is completed, the notarial marriage certificate is issued.

Certified Copies Available: Certified Copies are not available.

Comments: Applicants should check the website or contact their local Notary Public Office to obtain specific information regarding required fees and supporting documents. Same-sex marriage is not recognized in China.

Divorce Certificates

• Notarial certificate for divorce: Certifies the authenticity and legality of the divorce. It indicates the divorced couple’s names, and the date and place of divorce. 
• Notarial divorce certificate: Certifies the authenticity of the original divorce certificate, and that the photocopy of the divorce certificate is in accordance with the original.  
• A notarial divorce certificate normally contains a watermark, seal, and red stamp; except for the copies of the original divorce certificate. All notarial documents must have an English translation, and be attached with a certificate stating that the English translation is in conformity with the Chinese original.
• A National ID card and household registration (Hu Kou Bu). If the applicant lives abroad, a copy of his or her passport is also required. 
• Original divorce certificate.
• Original divorce decree or mediation agreement.
• Once the review of the submitted documents is completed, the notarial divorce certificate is issued.

Adoption Certificates

Fees: Varies.  Normally RMB 200 - 300  (Notarization Fee: RMB 80 + Translation Fee: Non-standard)

• A notarial adoption certificate certifies the authenticity of the original adoption certificate/adoption registration certificate; and that the photocopy of the certificate is in accordance with the original. 
• A notarial adoption certificate normally contains a watermark, seal, and red stamp; except for the copies of the original adoption certificate/adoption registration certificate. It must indicate the adoptee’s information (name, gender, and date of birth), the adoptive parents’ information (name, gender, and date of birth), the name of the person or institution placing the child for adoption, the registration number, the registration date, and the registration authority. All notarial documents must have an English translation, and be attached to a certificate stating that the English translation is in conformity with the Chinese original.
• If the applicant is a Taiwan/Hong Kong/Macau resident, the mainland travel permit is required.
• Original adoption certificate/adoption registration certificate.
• A signed affidavit or authorization certificate from the applicant if someone other than the applicant applies for the certificate on his or her behalf.  The authorized person also needs to provide his/her national ID card.
• Once the review of the submitted documents is completed, the notarial adoption certificate is issued.

Exceptions: In accordance with the most recent revisions to China's adoptions law, a Notarial Adoption Certificate is no longer a requirement for international (intercountry)-adoption cases that were initiated after April 1, 1999, the effective date of the revisions. Notarial Adoption Certificates remain available should any party involved in the adoption process wish to have one (Adoption Law of the PRC, Chapter II, Article 15).

Early Adoptions

Prior to January 1981, there were no standardized adoption laws and regulations in China. Commonly, adoptions were orally agreed to by the adoptive parent(s) and natural parents and/or surviving family members. There may or may not be a written record dating from the time of the adoption in these older cases. Parties to pre-1981 adoptions, however, often secured Notarial Adoption Certificates at a later point in time that listed the natural parents' names, adoptive parents' names, and the date of the adoption. These certificates were meant to be issued only after the notary ascertained that an adoption took place conforming to local practice and regulation.

Following Enactment of the Adoption Law of China, Effective April 1, 1992

China codified its adoption laws and regulations in the Current Adoption Law of China on December 29, 1991, which came into effect on April 1, 1992. Under this law, a Notarial Adoption Certificate was required in all adoption cases, and the inability to obtain a Notarial Adoption Certificate was prima facie evidence that no legal adoption ever took place. Therefore, adoptions taking place after January 1981 and before April 1, 1999 are considered valid only with the issuance of a Notarial Adoption Certificate. Additionally, for adoption cases initiated during this period, the date of issuance of the Notarial Adoption Certification serves as the effective date of adoption.

Revisions to the Adoption Law of China, Effective April 1, 1999

On November 4, 1998, China amended its adoption law, effective April 1, 1999. Under the revised law, Notarial Adoption Certificates are no longer required in the adoption process, nor are they used to establish the effective date of adoption. Instead, a Certificate of Registration of Adoption is used, and the effective date of an adoption is the date of registration (Revised Measures for Registration of Adoption of Children by Foreigners, Article 11). These certificates are issued by the provincial-level Ministry of Civil Affairs, which is responsible for approving all adoptions of parentless or abandoned children who becomes the wards of the Chinese state.

International (Intercountry) Adoptions in China

Foreigners may, in accordance with the Adoption Law of China, adopt a child  in the PRC. As in a domestic adoption, the adoptive relationship shall be established as the date of registration for all adoptions concluded on or after April 1, 1999, the effective date of the revised law. For adoptions occurring prior to that date, failure to obtain a Notarial Certificate of Adoption remains prima facie evidence that a legal adoption never took place. While a Notarial Adoption Certificate is no longer required, one may be obtained should any party involved in the adoptive relationship wish to have one. Moreover, it remains true that if a foreign parent or married couple adopts a Chinese orphan, at least one of the adoptive parents must travel to China to complete the adoption, at which time they will receive a Notarial Birth Certificate and a Notarial Abandonment Certificate (Revised Measures for Registration of Adoption of Children by Foreigners, Article 8). The Notarial Abandonment Certificate should detail under what circumstances the child was either orphaned or abandoned. Please consult the U.S. Consulate Guangzhou's Adoption Unit for more on the intercountry adoptions process.

Identity Card

Fees:  There are no fees

Document Name: Resident Identification Card of People’s Republic of China (Zhong Hua Ren Min Gong He Guo Ju Min Shen Fen Zheng)

Issuing Authority: Public Security Bureau/Authorized Administrative Police Station

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The second generation resident identity card with smart chip has been issued to Chinese citizens since March 29 th , 2004. The machine-readable chip contains the card holder’s biometric information.  Some physical features of the card include:

• Front of Card: National Emblem, Issuing Authority, and period of validity.
• Back of Card: Name, gender, ethnicity, date of birth, home address, identification number, and picture of the card holder.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title.

Registration Criteria: According to Chinese law, all Chinese citizens age 16 and older are required to submit an application for a resident identification card through the Public Security Bureau where his/her household is registered within 90 days. The legal guardian can submit an application on behalf of children age 16 and younger.

Procedure for Obtaining: The applicant must provide his or her biometric information and personally submit the following documents to the Public Security Bureau or authorized local administrative police station:

• Original household registration book (Hu kou bu)
• Parent’s identification card for applicants age 16 and younger.
• Application form (available at the Public Security Bureau or through its official website).
• One digital photo

*Processing time is up to 60 calendar days once the application is accepted.

Alternate Documents: Temporary resident identity card

• 16 and younger:  5 years
• 16-25: 10 years
• 16-45: 20 years
• Applicants can verify if an online application is available by checking their provincial Public Security Bureau’s official website.

Police, Court, Prison Records

Police records.

Fees: Varies.  Normally RMB 200 - 300  (Notarization Fee: RMB 80 + Translation Fee: Non-standard)

Document Name: Notarial certificate (Gong Zheng Shu)

• Notarial certificate of no criminal record: Certifies that the applicant has no criminal offense during his or her residence in China. It indicates the applicant’s name, gender, date of birth, ID number, and period of residence in China. NOTE: Notarial certificates of no criminal record issued prior to 2012 may not list the ID number.
• Notarial certificate of criminal record: Certifies the applicant’s criminal offense and sentencing during their residence in China. It indicates the applicant’s name, gender, date of birth, ID number, conviction information, nature and date of conviction, and date of release. Some certificates also attest that the applicant has no other criminal record beyond the convictions already described. NOTE: Notarial certificates of no criminal record issued prior to 2012 may not list the ID number.  
• A notarial police certificate normally contains a watermark, seal, and red stamp.  All notarial documents must have an English translation, and be attached to a certificate stating that the English translation is in conformity with the Chinese original.
• A National ID card and household registration (Hu Kou Bu).  If the applicant lives abroad, a copy of his or her passport is also required. 
• Valid passport, and all Chinese residence permits or visas. 
• Registration form of temporary residence for foreigners. 
• Chinese permanent resident card if applicable.
• Certificate of no criminal offense, or certificate of criminal offense, issued by the Public Security Bureau. 

Procedure for Obtaining: 

• Once the review of the submitted documents is completed, the notarial police certificate is issued. 

Exceptions: Police records are not available for those who were in China in diplomatic status including those working for international organizations, such as the United Nations. 

Comments:  While standardized procedures to apply for a notarized document exist in China, in practice, procedures vary depending on locale.   Applicants should check the website or contact their local Notary Public Office to obtain specific information regarding required fees and supporting documents. 

Court/Prison Records

Fees: Varies. (Notarization Fee: RMB 80 + Translation Fee: Non-standard)

Document Name: Notarial court certificate (Pan Jue Shu Gong Zheng)

• A notarial court certificate certifies the authenticity of the original People’s Court criminal judgment, and that the photocopy of the judgment is in accordance with the original. 
• A notarial court certificate normally contains a watermark, seal, and red stamp; except for the copies of the original People’s Court criminal judgment. It indicates the applicant’s name, gender, date of birth, and ID number.  NOTE: Notorial court certificates issued prior to 2012 may not list the ID number.  All notarial documents must have an English translation, and be attached with a certificate stating that the English translation is in conformity with the Chinese original.
• Original People’s court criminal judgment.
• Once the review of the submitted documents is completed, the notarial court certificate is issued.

Military Records

Generally not available.

Passports & Other Travel Documents

Types of Passports available: Diplomatic Passport; Service Passport; Passport for Public Affairs; Private Passport.

• Diplomatic Passports:  Bright Red. Used for diplomats and certain senior government officials, (e.g., provincial governors, ministers, etc.).
• Service Passports:  Green. Used for other government-sponsored travelers who are at, or below, the vice-minister level. Service passports are issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Passports for Public Affairs:  Brown. Used for other government-sponsored travelers who are at, or below, the vice-minister level.  Public Affairs passports are issued by Provincial Foreign Affairs Offices. Note: Posts in China have seen a variety of government-sponsored travelers, from trading company officials to kung fu experts, traveling on Public Affairs passports. The Provincial Foreign Affairs offices appear to have some latitude in deciding who can travel on a Public Affairs passport.
• Private Passport:  Dark Red. The current dark red passports first appeared in 1992.

Fees: RMB 160

Document Name: People’s Republic of China Passport (Zhong Hua Ren Min Gong He Guo Hu Zhao)  

Issuing Government Authority: Exit & Entry Administration Department, Ministry of Public Security (MPS) of People’s Republic of China.

Starting from May 15th, 2012, the PSB officially initiated the use of the electronic passport. The new passports contain the bearer’s biometric information, including gender, date of birth and finger prints. A regular passport is dark red with 48 pages. The biographic page contains passport type, country code, passport number, name, gender, nationality, date of birth, place of birth, date of issue, place of issue, date of expiry, authority and the signature of the bearer.

• One recent passport photo and application form.
• The original and a copy of the applicant’s national ID card for all applicants above age 16 is required. A temporary national ID card is acceptable during the renewal stage.
• If the applicant is below the age of 16, the original national ID card of the guardian and household registration (Hu Kou Bu), or any other proof of guardianship (e.g. birth certificate) is required, and the applicant must be accompanied by the guardian.
• Chinese national public servants must provide a statement from the office/bureau of their work place that grants permission to apply for exit/entry documents.
• Complete the application form and submit all required documents to the Exit and Entry Administration Department of the Public Security Bureau where the applicant’s family is registered. Applicants with active military service must submit the application to the Exit and Entry Administration Department of the Public Security Bureau where their branch of the military is located.
• Pay the application fee.
• Processing time varies. It is normally between 10 to 30 working days depending on the city/province.

Comments: Applicants should check the website or contact their local Public Security Bureau regarding any special registration criteria. A Chinese passport will NOT be issued to:

a. Person who does not have Chinese nationality. b. Person without identification. c. Person who provides fake documents or fraudulent materials. d. Person who is currently serving a prison sentence. e. Person who has been identified as a suspect of a crime. f.  Person who is on the Chinese national security warrant list. g. Person who has a criminal record or illegal exit & entry record within the last 6 months to 3 years.

Other Documents Available:   Travel Document:  Blue -  A Travel Document is issued by Chinese diplomatic representative offices outside of China to Chinese citizens who, due to time constraints or other reasons, are unable to apply for a regular passport.  If the Travel Document is annotated as “Valid only for return travel to China” the document becomes invalid as soon as the holder enters China. A Travel Document may also be issued by Chinese diplomatic representative offices to residents of Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan who do not possess mainland travel permits and who need to travel to mainland China. A Travel Document will typically either be issued as single entry for mainland China with one year of validity, or as multiple entries/exits for mainland China with two years of validity. Travel Document validity cannot be extended. A Travel Document can also be used to apply for third country visas as well as to travel to a third country.   

Other Records

Notarial work experience certificates.

Available. Notarial Work Experience Certificates (NWECS) briefly describe an applicant's work experience in the PRC. They should be required of all employment based preference immigrant applicants who claim work experience in China. Employer's letters or sworn statements from persons claiming person's knowledge should not be accepted in lieu of NWECS. The inability of an applicant to obtain a NWEC should be regarded as prima facie evidence the applicant does not possess the claimed experience.

• Visa Issuing Posts

Post Title: Beijing   (Embassy)

Street Address:

No. 55 An Jia Lou Road Beijing, China 100600

Phone Number:

Tel:  (86-10) 8531-3000, 8531-4000 (ACS) Fax:  (86-10) 8531-4200, 8531-3300 (ACS)

Visa Services: NIV except K  

Post Title: Chengdu  (Consulate General)

Number 4, Lingshiguan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China 610041

Tel:  (28) 8558-3992 Fax:  (28) 8558-3520

Visa Services: NIV except K

Post Title: Guangzhou  (Consulate General)

Mailing Address:

U.S. Consulate General 43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town Tianhe District Guangzhou, China 510623

Huaxia Road, Zhujiang New Town, (near Exit B1 of the Zhujiang New Town subway station, Line 3 and Line 5) Tianhe District Guangzhou, China

(86-20) 3814-5000

Visa Services: All categories

Post Title: Shanghai  (Consulate General)

Main Consulate Building Address: 1469 Huai Hai Zhong Road (Near Wulumuqi Nan Lu) Shanghai, China 200031 Consular Section Address: Eighth floor of Westgate Mall 1038 West Nanjing Road Shanghai, China

Tel:  (86-21) 8011-2200 Fax:  (86-21) 6279-7603

Post Title: Shenyang  (Consulate General)

No. 52, 14 Wei Road Heping District Shenyang, Liaoning, China 110003

Tel:  (86-24) 2322-1198 Fax:  (86-24) 2322-2374

Post Title: Wuhan  (Consulate General)

Room 4701, New World International Trade Tower I No. 568, Jianshe Avenue Jianghan District, Wuhan 430022

Tel:  (86-27) 8555-7791 Fax:  (86-27) 8555-7761

Visa Services: Is not yet open for visa services

Visa Services

All IV applications for China (PRC).

All K NIV applications for China.

Beijing Guangzhou Shanghai Shenyang Wuhan: The Consulate General of Wuhan is not yet open for visa services.

The embassy/consular districts include the following provinces/regions of China:

Embassy/Consular District: Beijing Provinces/Regions:

Beijing, Tianjin, Shandong, Shanxi, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Shaanxi, Qinghai, Gansu, Xinjiang, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi

Embassy/Consular District: Guangzhou

Provinces/Regions:

Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Fujian

Embassy/Consular District: Shanghai Provinces/Regions:

Shanghai, Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang

Embassy/Consular District: Shenyang Provinces/Regions:

Liaoning Heilongjiang Jilin

Embassy/Consular District: Wuhan Provinces/Regions:

Is not yet open for visa services. Those seeking visa services should contact the U.S. Embassy in Beijing

Additional Information for Reciprocity

• Reciprocity: What's New
• Temporary Reciprocity Schedule
• Country Acronyms
• Terrorist Designation Lists
• State Sponsors of Terrorism
• Treaty Countries

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Brunei Darussalam

Burkina Faso

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Congo the Democratic Republic of the

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Côte d'Ivoire

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

Iran, Islamic Republic of

Israel, Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza

Korea, Democratic People's Republic of

Lao People's Democratic Republic

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Micronesia, Federated States of

Moldova, Republic of

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea

North Macedonia

Palestinian Authority

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Russian Federation

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten (Dutch part)

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Virgin Islands, British

Wallis and Futuna

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Updated U.S. Entry Requirements for Travelers From China

Travelers no longer need to get tested and show the negative COVID-19 test result, or show documentation of recovery from COVID-19, prior to boarding a flight to the U.S. from the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, and Macau, effective from Mar 10, 2023 at 3 PM ET. Individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. must still show proof of vaccination.

New Adjustments to Chinese Visa and Entry Policies:

• Valid multi-year multiple entry visas issued before March 28, 2020 by the Chinese visa authorities abroad shall resume function.
• Travelers may apply for all types of visas (including those for tourism and medical treatment).
• Port visas shall once again be issued in line with the relevant laws and regulations.
• The visa-exemption policy for Hainan, visa-exemption cruise policy for Shanghai, visa-exemption policy for foreigners to visit Guangdong from Hong Kong and Macao, and visa-exemption policy for ASEAN tour groups to Guilin and Guangxi shall resume operation.
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China to ease visa requirements for U.S. travelers in latest bid to boost tourism

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China will ease visa restrictions for people visiting from the United States, the country’s latest effort to attract foreign travelers since reopening its borders earlier this year.

Starting Jan. 1, American tourists will no longer need to submit round-trip air tickets, proof of hotel reservations, itineraries or invitations to China, according to a notice posted online Friday by the Chinese Embassy in Washington.

The simplified application process is intended to “further facilitate people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States,” the notice said.

The move comes as China has struggled to rejuvenate its tourism sector after three years of strict pandemic measures, which included mandatory quarantines for all arrivals. While those restrictions were lifted earlier this year, international travelers have been slow to return.

In the first half of this year, China recorded 8.4 million entries and exits by foreigners, down from 977 million for all of 2019, the last year before the pandemic, according to immigration statistics.

In another bid to boost tourism, China announced last month that it would allow visa-free entry for citizens of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia for up to 15 days.

The one-year trial program signaled China’s “high-level opening up to the outside world,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily briefing.

But China’s efforts to entice American tourists may face other headwinds. International flights between the two countries, which are set by a bilateral agreement, remain well below pandemic levels, though they have slowly increased in recent months.

Over the summer, amid deteriorating relations between Beijing and Washington, the U.S. recommended Americans reconsider traveling to China, citing the risk of wrongful detentions and exit bans.

“The People’s Republic of China (PRC) government arbitrarily enforces local laws, including issuing exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, without fair and transparent process under the law,” the advisory said.

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China issues travel warning for the US

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on March 29 warned citizens of challenging travel conditions to the US due to a spike in cases where Chinese students and company employees were subjected to “unwarranted interrogations and harassment” by US airport law enforcement officers.

China’s travel advisory for citizens entering the US urges safety precautions and preparation for “various unexpected situations”, detailed a  South China Morning Post  news report.

The ministry and the Chinese embassy and consulates in the US have lodged a solemn representation to the US.

Since November 2023, at least eight Chinese students with valid documents have been searched, interrogated or sent back from Washington Dulles International Airport alone, according to a tally by Chinese media.

A biological sciences PhD candidate has also claimed to have been subjected to a body search, eight hours in an interrogation room, and 12 hours in solitary confinement before being deported by officials at Dulles airport in December last year. She was due to return to the US to continue her studies.

These incidents appear to be a setback in the pledge by both countries to facilitate educational and other exchanges in recent months. In November, while on a visit to the US, Chinese president Xi Jinping said China would invite 50,000 young Americans to study in the next five years.

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