Very few citizens of foreign countries are allowed to enter the People’s Republic of China, particularly if they don’t hold a Chinese permanent residence permit. Americans are no different: With the exception of 72-hour and 144-hour visa-free transit visits, US citizens need a visa to enter China.

The most common type of visa for US travelers to China is the tourist visa, also known as the L Visa.

Along with the appropriate valid visa, you’ll need a valid foreign passport to enter China, with at least two blank visa pages and six months’ validity. If you’re visiting visa-free using a 72 or 144-hour transit stay, you’ll need to show proof of your onward transportation to the Chinese government authorities upon entering the country.

Obtaining the L visa also comes with a separate list of necessary documents, including an official letter of invitation issued from your tour company or Chinese-citizen host, completed visa application form, flight arrangements, and hotel bookings.

At customs, travelers are required to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 48 hours of departure for China. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a comprehensive list of recommended vaccines.

As of August 30, 2023, China is no longer requiring a negative COVID-19 test result before entering the country.

While China is usually a safe travel destination, its strict laws and current conflicts in the Uyghur and Tibet autonomous regions mean that travelers need to take precautions while traveling there.

From guarding against air pollution to knowing which parts of the country to avoid due to violent conflicts, our guide to health and safety in China details how to remain safe and secure  during your trip to China.

China’s strict and harsh laws and legal system have earned it an international reputation as a difficult country to visit and explore, so you should educate yourself beforehand and stay on the right side of the law. That includes learning about what items aren’t allowed into the country, where you can and cannot take photographs, appropriate dress code, and being cautious with your internet usage due to the Great Firewall of China and Chinese internet censorship.

Immediately seek legal assistance if you’re arrested and imprisoned in China, and don’t hesitate to alert your country’s embassy or consulate. They should be able to provide insight—and you’ll need all the help they have to offer.

As a foreign citizen traveling around the People’s Republic of China, you’ll be using the People’s Currency:the  renminbi, or Chinese yuan. Available in banknote, coin, and digital form, the yuan is one of the most widely traded currencies on Earth.

In China, you can easily exchange foreign currency for yuan at banks and currency exchanges or use ATMs to withdraw cash directly. Learn more about China’s cultural attitudes toward money, including tipping etiquette, with our complete guide to Chinese renminbi.

Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a China visa. Start your visa application process.