China Travel Advice

Entry requirements differ by country. The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office issues country specific travel advice including Health, Visa and Vaccination requirements.

You can access the FCDO advice for China at https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/china

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for children

Children aged 5 and under are required to apply for a Customs Code Health Declaration Form.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive in China.

Visa requirements

No visas are required for British nationals departing in 2026. British nationals travelling in 2027 or later will need a visa to enter mainland China, but not Hong Kong or Macao. All visa applicants aged between 14 and 70 inclusive need to make their visa application in person at a Visa Application Centre. During the application process, biometric data (scanned fingerprints) has to be provided.

Further information on categories and the process for submitting forms can be found here.

Travels forms

COVID-19 Entry Requirements

Since 30 August 2023, there are no longer COVID-19 entry requirements. However, travellers entering and exiting China are required to complete the Health Declaration Form via the China Customs website or through the China Customs App, WeChat, or Alipay account.

Those transiting through a third country to China should also complete the Health Declaration Form.

Registering with the Chinese authorities

You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the TravelHealthPro website.

Irish Passport Holders

Please note that this information is for British Passport holders only. If you hold an Irish passport then please visit the Department of Foreign Affairs for travel advice