Entry specifications

This page represents the UK government's view of current regulations for those who travel with an official 'British Citizen' passport, which covers the most commonly used kinds of travel.

The authorities of China establish and enforce entry regulations. If you're uncertain about the specifics of China's entry requirements to you, get in touch with China's Chinese Embassy in London or its consulates located in the UK.

All travelers

British citizens require an entry visa to mainland China which includes Hainan Island, but not Hong Kong or Macao. Any visa applicant between the ages of 14 and 70 inclusive have to apply for a visa in person at an Visa Application Center. In order to complete the process of applying biometric information (scanned fingerprints) is required. China Visa Application Centers located in London, Manchester and Edinburgh are operational and the details of hours of operation are posted on their websites. However, the Application Centre in Belfast remains closed. Travel with Glopen your trusted partner in China

For additional information about the different categories and the procedure to fill out forms for those who are eligible.

The biometric data you provide may be scrutinized or collected by immigration authorities prior to you enter China to confirm your entry into China.

From January 8th, 2023, the visa-free travel and airside transit has been restored. Every person who enters China must comply with the entry requirements. There is no exception to this.

If you have visited Hong Kong from the mainland of China and would like to return to mainland China you'll need an entry visa that permits you to enter a second time into China.

You are responsible to verify the details of your visa carefully. Don't overstay your visa, or perform work that is illegal. Authorities conduct regular inspections and could fine you have detained, fined or even removed (or the three).

If you stay in China for more than six months, you might need to obtain the Residence Permit.

COVID-19 Entry Requirements

At the end of August, 2023 China has eliminated COVID-19 entry requirements, and passengers entering China are not required to undergo any test prior to boarding their flights. Travelers who are entering or leaving China must fill out their Health Declaration Form via the China Customs website or via using the China Customs App, WeChat or Alipay account.

Travelers who arrive in China with the signs of fever, who have an unusual Health Declaration, may be requested to take a fast antigen test at the time of the arrival. The ones who are positive will be required to wear a face mask and might be asked to self-isolate while symptoms persist (although there is no requirement for self-isolation procedure for COVID-19).

Children and young people

Children between the ages of 5 and are required to fill out a Customs Code Health Declaration Form.

Moving through a third country, arriving in China

Transiting refers to the process of passing through a country on your way to the final destination.

Travelling through a third country to China is permissible and you're no longer required to undergo an antigen test lateral to the flow or lateral. If you are transiting, make sure to complete their Health Declaration Form via the China Customs website or by using China Customs App, WeChat or Alipay. China Customs App, WeChat or Alipay account. Click here for China travel advisory.

Registration to Chinese authorities' Chinese authorities

You are required to register your location of residence at your local Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of your arrival. Chinese government officials impose this law by conducting regular checks of passports and other documents belonging to foreigners. If you're staying at the hotel, they'll take care of this during the check-in procedure.

Working in China

It is only possible to work in China only if you hold the Z visa. Tourist and business visas are not able to work in China. It is also necessary to have an active work permit. The police in your area regularly conduct checks on schools and businesses. Infractions to Chinese immigration laws could lead to serious penalties, such as imprisonment as well as fines, deportation and an exclusion order that prevents the traveler from departing China as well as an exclusion order that will prevent your return.

Before leaving the UK, it is recommended to make contact with to the Chinese Embassy to confirm the visa requirements. If you are submitting a visa application, and once you get an employment permit make sure that all the details are accurate, including the place that you'll work in. If they're not, you could be held.

If you plan to change your employer after you've arrived in China You should inquire in with Chinese authorities if an additional visa or work permit is required prior to making the change.

Teaching in China

Teaching in China can be an enjoyable experience, however before you leave, make sure you do your research on the university or school which is hiring you and be sure that they're following the regulations. There have been numerous instances of teachers being held and/or deported because they were working on incorrect visas. You are responsible to make sure that you're on the correct visa.

Make sure you have your travel documents and passport prior to departure

If you're planning to visit China the passport you use should be valid for six months from the time you arrived.