Asia and Oceania

No restrictions in this travel advice

Avoid all but essential travel to part(s) of country

Avoid all but essential travel to whole country

Avoid all travel to part(s) of country

Avoid all travel to whole country

• Travel Summary
• Safety and security
• Local laws and customs
• Entry requirements

• Health
• Natural disasters
• General
 

• There have been confirmed reports that on 23 and 24 January Chinese security forces fired on protestors in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the west of Sichuan Province, following unrest in the area. It is likely that the Chinese authorities will limit access to this Prefecture. See Safety and Security - Domestic Unrest.
  
  
• You should not attempt to travel to Tibet without the appropriate permits. See Safety and Security - Local Travel - Tibet.
  
  
• The wet season runs from May to November, affecting in particular the southern and eastern coastal regions of China. Every year, tropical cyclones (typhoons) and heavy rains cause substantial disruption. See Natural Disasters - Typhoons.
  
  
• Demonstrations which do not have the prior approval of the Chinese authorities are considered by the local government to be unlawful and violators may be deported and could face imprisonment. Foreign journalists have been intimidated, assaulted or detained for trying to report demonstrations. See Safety and Security - Domestic Unrest.
  
  
• China is subject to earthquakes. In the aftermath of a natural disaster, follow the advice of local authorities. Try to make contact with your nearest British Embassy or Consulate-General to confirm your safety.
  
  
• There is a general threat from terrorism in China. See Safety and Security - Terrorism. 
  
  
• There are severe penalties in China for drugs-related offences including the death penalty. See Local Laws and Customs.
  
  
• Over 575,000 British nationals visited mainland China in 2010 (Source: National Tourism Administration of the People’s Republic of China). Most visits to China are trouble free. See General - Consular Assistance Statistics.
  
  
• China does not recognise dual nationality. If you hold Chinese nationality, the Chinese authorities may regard you as a Chinese national, regardless of the travel document with which you entered China. See Local Laws and Customs.
  
  
• All foreign nationals over the age of 16 must carry their passport at all times. You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival. If you stay in a hotel, registration is done on your behalf as part of the check-in process. Police may carry out random checks.
  
  
• Take precautions against pick-pocketing and other street crime.  You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General - Insurance.
  

Safety and Security - Terrorism
There is a general threat from terrorism in China. This reflects both the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks and the possibility of terrorist attacks by groups opposed to the Chinese Government. They could be indiscriminate including in places visited by expatriates and foreign travellers. See our Terrorism Abroad page.

Safety and Security - Domestic Unrest
The Chinese authorities enforce public order strictly. You should avoid becoming caught up in public demonstrations otherwise you may face arrest, deportation or detention. You should exercise particular caution in Tibet Autonomous Region and Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

Xinjiang – violent incidents in the northwest Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region have erupted from time to time. In late July 2011, a series of incidents in the city of Kashgar left at least 15 people dead and many more injured. There were no reports of deaths or injury involving foreign nationals.

Tibet – avoid becoming involved in demonstrations or calls for Tibetan independence.  The authorities regard videotaping or photographing such activities as provocative.

There have been confirmed reports that on 23 and 24 January Chinese security forces fired on protestors in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the west of Sichuan Province, following unrest in the area. There have also been protests in neighbouring Aba Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It is likely that the Chinese authorities will limit access to these Prefectures.

During periods of tension, access to text-messaging, the internet and to international telephone lines may be periodically blocked. Stay informed of developments by monitoring local and international media, checking this travel advice when possible and letting friends and family know where you will be travelling.

Safety and Security - Crime
On the whole, travel to China remain incident-free. However, remain alert and keep your valuables, including passport, in a secure place. In public places, ensure you keep your belongings with you at all times. Serious crime against foreigners is rare.

Theft of British passports, particularly in larger cities, is increasing. Foreigners are also targeted for laptops, mobile phones, purses and handbags. Major tourist sites attract thieves and pickpockets. Take extra care around street markets, at Beijing International Airport, around major international events and conferences and when visiting popular bar areas after dark. Resisting a robbery attempt could lead to serious violence; the use of knives is fairly common, though rarely firearms.

Counterfeit bank notes, especially counterfeit RMB100 notes, are increasingly common. They are generally crumpled to avoid detection. Unscrupulous traders may try to switch your genuine bank notes for counterfeits. Ask in the bank or where you change your money how to identify fake notes, and then check before accepting notes - it is quite normal to do so.

Be aware, particularly in the popular tourist areas of major cities, of attempts to scam tourists.  A regular example is the ‘Tea Tasting’ scam. This usually involves a foreign national being invited to undertake a ‘tea tasting’ at a nearby shop/cafe, but results in demands for an exorbitant fee, often payable by credit card. This can result in threats of violence or credit card fraud.

There have been some reports of violence against foreign citizens in bars and nightclubs frequented by foreigners in major cities. Incidents may begin as disputes over small matters e.g. spilled drinks and have, on occasion, developed into serious and violent altercations.  

There are occasional incidents with taxi and pedicab drivers who insist the passenger misunderstood the fare (pedicabs are not metered). In most major cities, it is appropriate to ask a taxi driver for a receipt (“fapiao”), on which the taxi number should be printed. Avoid travelling in unmarked “taxis”.

It is inadvisable to trek alone in isolated areas, including those that follow parts of the Great Wall. If you do, leave your itinerary, mobile number and expected time of return at your hotel/hostel or with a third party.  

Areas bordering on Siberia, Pakistan, Vietnam, Laos and Burma are poorly policed. In Yunnan Province, drug smuggling and related crimes are increasing. There is an ongoing risk of attack from armed bandits in the more remote areas.

In 2010, there were a number of violent attacks in kindergartens on the mainland resulting in young school children and adults being killed or injured. The last such attack took place in the city of Zibo, Shandong Province on 2 August 2010. The authorities have implemented improved security across schools. Should you have concerns about safety issues, contact the relevant school.

See our Victims of Crime Abroad page. 

Safety and Security - Business Disputes
Business disputes in China are rarely handled through the civil law courts. Incidents of British nationals being detained against their will for extorting money or intimidation for other gains have increased. It is rare that violence is actually instigated. However, the threat of violence is a recurring theme and has proved very stressful for our nationals. The police are generally reluctant to act unless they have specific evidence of an actual assault.

Anyone entering into a contract in China should take appropriate legal advice, both in the United Kingdom and in China. Contracts entered into in the United Kingdom are not enforced by Chinese courts. British nationals doing business in China should realise that if they become involved in a business and/or civil dispute, and the case  goes to court, the Chinese government may prohibit them from leaving China until the matter is resolved. Contract fraud is treated as a crime in China and the defendant may also be placed in custody until the dispute is resolved.   

Safety and Security - Local Travel
Travel around Chinese New Year can be very difficult, with millions of people travelling from the major cities to their home province for the New Year holiday. Trains and flights are frequently fully booked weeks in advance.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Road Travel
Foreigners are required to pass a driving test before driving in China: possession of an international driving licence may not be regarded as sufficient. If you intend to drive in China, familiarise yourself with the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China.  

There are harsh penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol, including administrative detention.

The poor quality of roads and generally low driving standards leads to many accidents. If you are involved in a serious accident, you may be prevented from leaving the country until the case is resolved.

See our Driving Abroad page.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Sea Travel
There have been several incidents of overcrowded ferries sinking, leading to deaths.  There have also been attacks of piracy in the South China Sea.  Mariners should be vigilant and take precautions.

See our River and Sea Safety page.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Rail Travel
Trains are popular, inexpensive and a reliable mode of travel; they can be very crowded. From January 2012 China has introduced named ticketing on all mainline rail services; also from January 2012 foreigners are generally only able to buy tickets at railway stations.

Trans-Mongolian express trains (Beijing-Moscow via Ulaanbaatar) are noted for smuggling.  Search your compartment and secure the cabin door before departure. Petty theft from overnight trains and buses is common.

Safety and Security – Local Travel – Tibet
The Chinese authorities limit access to, and travel within, Tibet by foreign tourists. Foreigners wishing to travel to the Tibet Autonomous Region require the permission of the Chinese authorities. Foreigners may normally only enter with a permit as part of a tour group; tour operators and travel agencies offer assistance with these.

Authorities periodically suspend issuing permits to for travel to, and within, the Tibet Autonomous Region for foreign nationals during sensitive periods. Travel agents anticipate that permits will not be issued for travel between 20 February 2012 and 30 March 2012 coinciding with the Tibetan new year festival and the anniversary of certain uprisings in Tibet. The Chinese authorities have not officially confirmed this but as of January reports from travel agents indicate that during this period there will be restrictions in place. Travellers to Tibet should check with tour operators or travel agents and monitor the international media and this travel advice for information about travel to Tibet.

Ongoing political and ethnic tensions can lead to unrest and violent protest in Tibet. While foreigners are not normally targeted during unrest, travellers should be alert to the possibility of being caught up in unexpected outbreaks of violence. Local authorities will react if you are found carrying letters or packages from Tibetan nationals to be posted in other countries.

The extreme altitude in Tibet may cause altitude sickness.

Photography in Buddhist monasteries requires permission; a fee, normally negotiated in advance, is payable.

Safety and Security - Political Situation
China Country Profile

China is a one party state. Though China is very open to foreign visitors, you should be aware of political and cultural sensitivities in conversation with Chinese counterparts.

There are severe penalties in China for drugs offences including the death penalty.  A British national was executed in China for a drugs offence in December 2009. Other foreign nationals have been sentenced to death in China for drugs offences since then.

China does not recognise dual nationality. This applies to children and adults. Any person born in China to a Chinese national parent is likely to be considered by the Chinese authorities to have Chinese nationality. Travellers holding British passports who also hold Chinese citizenship are also likely to be regarded by the Chinese authorities as a Chinese citizen, even if they travel to China on a British passport. If you have formally renounced Chinese citizenship, we advise you to carry clear evidence that you have done so. Further information and advice on nationality issues for British national children born in China can be found here.

Foreign nationals over 16 years of age are required to carry their passports with them at all times. Police carry out random checks, especially during periods of heightened security, around major sporting or political events; failure to produce your ID can lead to a fine or detention.

The Chinese authorities maintain controls on internet access: websites such as facebook and youtube are blocked.  Other websites or e-mail service providers are blocked from time to time.  

Gambling is illegal in China (though it is legal in the Special Administrative Region of Macao).

There are restrictions on certain religious activities, including preaching and distributing religious materials. The Falun Gong movement is banned in China.

Homosexuality is not illegal although there are no specific laws in place to protect the rights of LGBT people. You can find information on LGBT life in China here.

See our Your Trip page.

Entry Requirements - Visas
British nationals require visas to enter mainland China, but not Hong Kong or Macao. Visas must be obtained prior to arrival, including for Hainan Island. For details of entry requirements to China you should contact the nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate in good time before your proposed trip. Chinese Visa policy requires that foreigners leave China to change a visa from one category to another.

Do not overstay your visa. Carefully check your visa validity as fines are levied for overstaying.

Entry Requirements - Passport validity
You must hold a valid passport to enter China. Your passport must be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into China.

Entry Requirements - Registering with the Chinese authorities
You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival. Chinese authorities enforce this requirement with regular spot-checks of foreigners’ documentation. If you are staying in a hotel, registration is done on your behalf as part of the check-in process.

Entry Requirements - Stays of more than six months
If you are entering China for employment, study or private purposes for a stay of over six months, you must produce a health certificate, which includes a blood test for HIV, which has been legalised by the Chinese Embassy.

Entry Requirements - Travelling to Hong Kong
If you visit Hong Kong from the mainland of China and wish to return to the mainland, you will need a valid visa for the return journey, i.e. you will need to ensure your visa application shows that you will make two entries to the mainland.

Entry Requirements - Transiting China
If you are transiting China en route to a third country you do not require a transit visa if you are staying within the confines of the airport for less than 24 hours.  If your stopover requires you to leave the airport, you will need a transit visa for both the outward and return journeys.

Entry Requirements - Travelling with children
For information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Chinese Embassy in London.

Health - Insurance
Healthcare is not provided free of charge in China and medical bills can be substantial. Medical evacuation from China is very expensive. We strongly recommend that you ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering healthcare for the duration of your stay. The UK Government does not pay travellers' healthcare costs overseas.

A generally good standard of medical care can be accessed in China's major cities, though some hospitals can be very crowded. Outside major cities, the standard of healthcare is more variable.

Your Doctor or Travel Clinic can provide up-to-date advice on immunisations and other preventative measures relevant to the part of China to which you are travelling. You should  ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date.  We strongly recommend that you visit the websites of the National Travel Heath Network Centre and NaTHNaC or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 for guidance on vaccination requirements and current information on health issues in China.  The following websites can also provide useful information:

• www.hpa.org.uk - The UK Health Protection Agency supplies accurate and detailed information on infectious disease, particularly malaria.
• www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk – an NHS Scotland website.
• http://www.who.int/countries/chn/en - World Health Organization information on health issues in China.
• www.cdc.gov -  world-renowned US govt site on diseases worldwide, including malaria and influenza.
  

Health - Infectious disease including influenza
The high population density of some Chinese towns and cities makes the rapid transmission of infectious diseases, especially influenza, a risk. The Chinese authorities have previously taken prompt action against the spread of infectious disease, including placing restrictions on travel and imposing quarantine on those who may be infected. You should monitor this travel advice page for updates.

China’s principal airports carry out body temperature monitoring measures to identify anyone travelling with a fever. Those suffering from fever may be asked to consult a doctor.

There have been incidents of influenza transmitted to humans from birds and animals in China, in particular variants transmitted from birds ('Avian Flu' variants such as H5N1 and H9N2 ) and pigs ('Swine Flu' variants such as H1N1and H3N2). Outbreaks are usually confined to rural areas and infection is believed to arise from close contact with infected birds or animals; infected animals are culled. Human-to-human transmission of animal-derived variants is not common, however significant outbreaks of H5N1 and H1N1 have occurred in recent years, including human-to-human transmission.

You should read this advice in conjunction with Avian and Pandemic Influenza, which gives more detailed advice and information. You can also find more detailed information on influenza from the World Health Organization website for China: http://www.who.int/countries/chn/en/.

Rabies occurs throughout China. Travellers to the provinces of China should avoid all animal contact, including domestic cats and dogs and not rely on the availability of full post-exposure treatment. A rabies vaccine is available for those at particular risk, prior to travel.

Hand, foot and mouth (HFMD) disease and an intestinal virus variant occur in China. Both diseases are usually more severe in children and babies, and peak in the summer months.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) and an intestinal virus variant occur in China. Both diseases are usually more severe in children under 10 years of age. Both variants are prevalent April - October and peak in the summer months. HFMD is characterised by rashes and blistering on the hands, feet and buttocks: if you detect these symptoms or are otherwise concerned, you should seek medical advice.

Malaria is prevalent in some areas of China, especially in rural areas of the country. You should take particular caution in the provinces of Hainan and Yunnan. The risk of malaria increases during warm weather. We encourage you to see your doctor before travelling:  take appropriate prophylaxis against malaria where necessary; ensure your accommodation is mosquito proof; and take measures to avoid insect bites, including using an insect repellent and wearing long, loose fitting clothing.

Japanese Encephalitis (JE, also known as Encephalitis B) is a mosquito-borne disease which is endemic in southern China, with higher risks from June to August.  In most cases, the illness is mild, with symptoms including headaches and a high temperature (fever), but JE can also cause more serious symptoms and can, on occasion, be fatal. Medical help should be sought immediately if you display symptoms.

See the NaTHNaC China country page for more information.

In the 2010 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 730,000 adults aged 15 or over in China were living with HIV; the prevalence percentage was estimated at around 0.1% of the adult population compared to the prevalence percentage rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. There is a risk of exposure to unsafe blood and blood products in regional China.  Travellers should specifically request the use of sterilised equipment. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

Health - Environmental Factors
The high levels of air pollution in major urban and industrialised areas in China may aggravate bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions.

Tap water in China is generally not safe to drink. Travellers are advised to drink only bottled water.

The extreme altitude (over 3000m) in some mountainous areas of China, including Tibet and parts of Xinjiang-Uighur Autonomous region, may cause altitude sickness. If you are elderly or have a heart condition, pulmonary or bronchial problems, seek medical advice before travelling to such regions.

See our Travel Health page for general health information.


In the 2010 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 730,000 adults aged 15 or over in China were living with HIV; the prevalence percentage was estimated at around 0.1% of the adult population compared to the prevalence percentage rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

The extreme altitude (over 3000m) in some mountainous areas of China, including Tibet and parts of Xinjiang-Uighur Autonomous region, may cause altitude sickness. If you are elderly or have a heart condition, pulmonary or bronchial problems seek medical advice before travelling to this region.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to China and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Heath Network and Centre NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

See our Travel Health page.

Health - Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
There are intermittent outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in poultry in China that have resulted in human deaths. Outbreaks are usually confined to rural areas and infection is believed to arise from close contact with live infected poultry; infected animals are culled. The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be low. However, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

You should read this advice in conjunction with Avian and Pandemic Influenza, which gives more detailed advice and information.

Natural Disasters - Earthquakes

China is located in an active seismic zone and is periodically subject to major earthquakes. In March 2011, major earthquakes occurred in Yunnan Province in south western China.

Earlier major earthquakes include: April 2010 - Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Yu Shu in Qing Hai Province, causing widespread destruction and significant loss of life; May 2008 - Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 7.9 on the Richter scale; July 2009, Yao’an County, Yunnan Province (south-western China), 6.0 on the Richter scale. Earthquakes of similar magnitude occur regularly. The following websites provide useful, updated information on earthquakes and tsunamis.

US Geological Survey   http://earthquake.usgs.gov/prepare/  

Pacific Tsunami Warning Center   http://ptwc.weather.gov/.

Natural Disasters - Flooding

Parts of central, southern and western China, particularly those bordering the Yangtze River experienced severe flooding in June 2011. Heavy rains also triggered landslides in Zhejiang and Hubei provinces. If travelling to the area monitor local weather reports and follow any evacuation orders issued by the local authorities.

Severe landslides affected Zhouqu county, part of Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in August 2010. 1,200 were killed. There were reports of road closures, and cutting of power and communication lines.

Natural Disasters - Typhoons

A typhoon is a tropical cyclone. The tropical cyclone season in China normally runs from May to November, affecting the south eastern coastal regions of China. The Japan Meteorological Agency and the China Meteorological Administration provides information and forecasts (in English) about approaching storms in the region.

The tropical cyclone season regularly gives rise to large-scale evacuations, particularly in the coastal regions of southern China. Air travel and other forms of transport can be affected. Check with your airline or travel operator for further details in the event of an approaching storm.

Travellers should avoid visiting isolated or rural areas if a typhoon system is forecast or affecting the area. If you encounter a storm, pay close attention to the instructions of local authorities. Local infrastructure may be affected and there may be widespread flooding, including in urban areas. Take precautions including; avoiding unnecessary journeys, staying in touch with family and friends who may be concerned and ensuring you have a supply of clean drinking water. Flooding can increase the threat of water-borne disease; do not wade through flood-water with any undressed cuts or abrasions on your feet and legs. Continue to monitor weather reports.

In 2009, Typhoon Morakot struck  Fujian and Zhejiang Provinces (eastern China). More than 950,000 residents were evacuated.

See our Tropical Cyclones page for more detailed information about what to do if you are caught up in a typhoon.

General - Insurance
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to China. Exclusions should be checked carefully and your policy should cover all the activities you want to undertake.  See our Travel Insurance page.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas see our When Things Go Wrong page.

General - Lost/stolen passports

Before applying for a replacement loss/stolen passport, report the loss to the nearest police station and/or Public Security Bureau, who will issue a ‘confirmation of loss’ report. Flight arrangements may have to be re-scheduled as you will need to obtain an exit visa, which can take several days to process, before you can leave China on a new passport.

General - Fire precautions
Fire protection standards in Chinese accommodation are not always the same as in the UK.  Check fire precautions such as access to fire exits.

General - Money
China remains largely a cash economy. Outside major cities, credit cards are not always accepted and the availability of cash point machines (ATMs) is limited. It is not possible to change Scottish or Northern Irish bank notes.

General - Teaching appointments
Many British nationals come to China to teach English and have a positive experience. However, some have experienced difficulties: you can avoid many of these by thorough research on the educational establishment and the area where you intend to work. If you wish to take up a teaching appointment in China contact the nearest Chinese Embassy for information on obtaining documentation. It is illegal to work in China on a tourist or business visit visa.

General - Consular Assistance Statistics
Over 575,000 British nationals visited mainland China in 2010 (Source: National Tourism Administration of the People’s Republic of China). 478 British nationals required consular assistance in China in the period 1 April 2010 - 31 March 2011 for the following types of incident: 24 deaths; 35 hospitalisations; and 23 arrests, for a variety of offences. During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (184 cases).