China entry preparation: from official checks to your first meal

Write down your passport nationality, where you legally reside, arrival and departure points, any transit stops and intended stay. Use the immigration authority and the embassy or consulate responsible for your application location. Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan have separate entry arrangements; check every part of a combined trip.

National Immigration Administration

Chinese Visa Application Service Center

Open the official visa service for the place where you will apply. Read that office's current document checklist, submission instructions and collection arrangements. Verify the web address before entering passport details or paying. Keep the confirmation and check the issued document against your name, passport number and travel plans. A travel article cannot determine your individual eligibility.

Save your accommodation's address in Chinese and the route from your arrival point. Leave time for immigration, baggage and the transfer before planning a meal. Choose food near your accommodation rather than booking a cross-city dinner immediately after arrival. Save two dish names and a written explanation of any dietary restrictions.

Choose the city guide for your first stop and place breakfast near the next morning's first attraction. For a short transit visit, confirm your permitted route and time with the official authority before planning sightseeing; leave a return buffer and keep the food stop on that route.