China

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 110 for police  
• Dial 119 for fire emergency
• Dial 120 for ambulance
• Dial 12356 (中文) or Lifeline 400-821-1215 (English, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.) for mental health crisis support.

Demonstrations

Chinese authorities rarely approve demonstrations. Unapproved demonstrations can be unpredictable. Chinese authorities may respond with violence. 

• Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Foreigners participating in demonstrations may be detained or deported.
• Check local media for updates and advisories. 
• Register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive U.S. State Department safety and security updates.

Crime

Most visitors to China find it to be a safe destination. Training, capability, and responsiveness of Chinese authorities vary by region and even within cities.

The U.S. embassy and consulates general may not represent U.S. citizens in either criminal or civil legal matters. U.S. embassy and consulate officials have no law enforcement authority in China.

• In an emergency, dial 110. This is the local equivalent to 911. English services are often available, but you should not expect English services in remote parts of China.
• Violent crime is uncommon in China. However, domestic unrest and terrorism can occur. 
• Stabbings have targeted foreigners, including U.S. citizens. The attackers had no known ties to the victims.
• Business disputes between U.S. citizens and local business partners can sometimes result in physical confrontation, detention, or coercion. Go straight to the police if you feel threatened or move to a public place.
• U.S. citizens traveling or residing in China may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime.  

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams. 

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help. To file a police report, collect as many details as possible, including names, telephone and bank numbers, and email and IP addresses. Then, inform the U.S. embassy or nearest consulate general.

Common scams include: 

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Targeting grandparents and elderly relatives 
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Common criminal schemes in China include:

• Prize winning and hand-carry favors: Drug traffickers may tell you that you have won a prize or a trip. Victims are often encouraged to transport a suitcase through China to a third-country destination. Sometimes the victim is not aware the flight will transit through China and face searches by Chinese customs officials.  The suitcase will contain large quantities of drugs. People transporting these suitcases will be arrested in China and face long prison sentences or even death.   
• Online and romance scams: Online scams and internet romance scams are common in China. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who may start a romantic relationship with you online, or claim local authorities are demanding money. They will often claim to have been involved in an accident or need medical treatment that requires you to send money. A stranger might reach out, saying they are a medical professional. They may ask you to send money directly to them. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. Scammers may also use dating apps to identify targets, inviting you out for a meal or drink and presenting you with an exorbitant bill at the end.
• Phone scams: Callers may pose as police officers, via text or sometimes even via a video conference. They ask you to send money to resolve an identity theft or money laundering investigation. Do not send any money. If they ask for your identity document, do not give it to them (like a driver’s license, passport, or social security card). If you receive any suspicious calls or requests, contact the local Public Security Bureau to verify the caller’s identity.
• Unlicensed or unapproved cabs: Taxi and ridesharing services in China are normally licensed by authorities. Be cautious when using taxi or ridesharing services that are not accessible through mobile applications. If you use the locally-approved taxi service, insist that the driver use the meter, and get a receipt. Have the name of your destination written in Chinese characters. Ask the driver to remove your bags from the trunk before you pay and get out.
• Counterfeit currency: Because most people pay with mobile payment apps, counterfeit currency is less of a concern in China now than in the past. When you need cash, only use ATMs at trusted financial institutions. Carry a variety of bills. Vendors may have limited cash available to make change.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 110. 

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy and consulates general can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Lost or stolen passports

If your passport is stolen, you must apply for a new U.S. passport at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general. You must also get a new Chinese visa. 

• File a police report at the nearest police station right away. 
• The lost or stolen passport report will allow you to check into hotels and take trains in China. 
• You may also be asked to file a report at the local Exit-Entry Bureau.

Contracts and commercial disputes

Before signing a commercial or employment contract in China, have a competent attorney in both the United States and in China review it. 

• The U.S. International Trade Administration can help you find and check business contacts and opportunities. However, it won’t get involved in contract disputes.  
• Many U.S. citizens have reported difficulty getting their contracts enforced by Chinese courts. They often report they are forced out of profitable joint ventures. This happens without real support from the Chinese legal system.
• Commercial disputes can result in exit bans. U.S. citizens sometimes have been able to secure release by settling legal disputes in favor of Chinese businesses.
• Some local businesspeople who feel wronged by a foreign business partner may hire "debt collectors.” These individuals harass, intimidate, and sometimes physically detain foreign business partners or family members to collect the debt. 

The U.S. embassy and consulates general cannot intervene in civil or business disputes. This includes expropriation of property by Chinese authorities.

Social insurance 

Foreigners who work in China must contribute to China’s social insurance system. 

• When you sign an employment contract, you must apply for a social insurance number. 
• Your employer must work with you to comply with the regulations. 
• Please check the social insurance website for updated information.

English and secondary school teachers 

English teachers in China often report employment disputes. These can result in questioning by local authorities, termination of employment, lost wages, or confiscation of passports. 

• Sometimes, disputes can result in forced eviction from housing and threats of violence.  
• Teachers must have the appropriate work visa. Teaching without the correct visa can result in detention and deportation. Make sure the location or school linked to your visa matches your job.

Sexual assault 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy or nearest consulate general for assistance.  
• If a U.S. citizen reports sexual assault to the police, the Public Security Bureau may require the victim to undergo testing at certain police hospitals. Certain tests and preventative medications may only be available at private hospitals. 

Domestic violence 

• Domestic violence in China is rarely recognized as a crime. U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safety practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• There is no expectation of privacy on mobile or other networks in China.
• China’s internet and mobile service providers must provide Chinese intelligence and security services with on-demand access to data, networks, and related infrastructure.
• For this reason, many travelers choose to use personal electronics, including phones and computers, with no personal, proprietary, or other sensitive information for use only within China.
• Use of a VPN in China is illegal in most cases and may result in confiscation of your device, a fine, or detention.
• Do not connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by map apps. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Using a satellite phone in China requires a permit. Authorities may confiscate an unpermitted device if you attempt to bring it into China. You may face a fine or detention.  

Drones

• Using drones in China requires a permit or license. It may be restricted or illegal depending on the location. 
• There may be some restrictions depending on the drone’s country of origin. If using a drone purchased locally, follow the regulations.
• Drones may be confiscated. Restricted areas are often poorly marked. If a drone is used in a restricted area, the owner and operator may face fines or detention.

Social media in China

• The Chinese government widely monitors Chinese social media accounts on platforms including WeChat, Little Red Book, and Weibo.
• Local authorities may use information they find critical, controversial, or possibly illegal. This applies to both the person who posted the material and the social media platform hosting it.
• People have been held responsible for the content others posted in their social media spaces. This includes comments under posts or in group chat that others manage.
• The most popular social media platforms in the United States are prohibited in China.

GPS

Prior to using any GPS in China:

• Make sure the application you are using is properly showing your GPS location with your application’s map. The Chinese government intentionally offsets GPS coordinates in some applications, especially those developed abroad.
• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well-regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. Please review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel. 
• Adventure travel destinations in China are often in remote or restricted areas. Extra security measures are common. You can expect security checks and more police presence and surveillance. This is especially true in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Tibet Autonomous Region, and Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures. 
• Emergency medical help is limited in remote areas of China most visited by adventure travelers. This includes unrestored sections of the Great Wall and the Tiger Leaping Gorge.
• Chinese authorities restrict and limit U.S. consular access to the Tibet Autonomous Region. This limits the U.S. government’s ability to help those who mountaineer, hike in remote areas, or visit religious and historical sites there.
• Travelers in mountainous areas may face landslides or extreme weather conditions. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, detained, or imprisoned.
• If you are the subject of a criminal investigation or case, you may be banned from leaving China until its conclusion.
• Initial detention and investigation in China, even for some minor offenses, may result in detention for several months to years.
• The U.S. embassy and consulates general may not represent U.S. citizens in criminal or civil legal matters. They have no law enforcement authority in China.

Drug and alcohol enforcement

• Penalties for possessing, using, sharing, providing a location for the consumption or trafficking of illegal drugs in China are severe. This includes marijuana and derivative products, even those prescribed or legal in other countries,  including the United States, as well as products that contain elements or oils of illegal drugs, including vaping or edible products.
• Convicted offenders can expect long prison sentences, heavy fines, or the death penalty. 
• Airport authorities and police regularly conduct unannounced drug tests on people suspected of drug use. Sometimes, police enter bars or nightclubs and conduct on-the-spot drug testing on everyone who is present. 
• Police may force you to provide urine, blood, or hair follicle samples on short notice. 
• A positive test result can lead to serious consequences. This applies even if the drug was consumed unknowingly, is legal elsewhere, or was taken before arriving in China. You could face immediate detention, fines, deportation, or a ban on returning. 

Driving under the influence

• China has strict laws against driving under the influence of alcohol. 
• Violators face immediate detention on criminal charges.  

Arbitrary enforcement of laws and surveillance

• Local laws can be interpreted and enforced in unpredictable ways. The judiciary is subject to Chinese Communist Party control.
• Security personnel closely monitor foreign visitors. U.S. citizens in China may face surveillance by local law enforcement and security services. 
  • Hotel rooms, offices, cars, taxis, telephones, internet use, digital payments, and fax machines may be monitored, either onsite or remotely.
  • Personal items in hotel rooms, like computers, can be searched without your consent.
  • Security personnel have detained and deported U.S. citizens for sending private electronic messages critical of the Chinese government.
• The updated Counterespionage Law of the People’s Republic of China, which took effect in 2024, broadens and expands the definition of espionage and emphasizes the public’s role in identifying spies.
• Some parts of China’s criminal law, like “endangering state security” and “state secrets” (Article 102 to 113), are vague. Different authorities may interpret them in various ways. Information that is common knowledge elsewhere may be seen as a “state secret” in China.

Crimes committed abroad

• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad, regardless of the local law. 
• Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Due to the high possibility of extended immigration detention periods, do not travel to China if you have an outstanding warrant for your arrest from another country. 

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or nearest consulate general immediately.

• Chinese authorities must notify U.S. authorities that they have taken a U.S. citizen into custody within 4 days. However, this does not always occur in a timely manner. 
• If the U.S. citizen did not enter China on a U.S. passport and with a valid Chinese visa, the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general may not be notified.
• If you are detained, you may wish to have a friend or family member contact the U.S. embassy or nearest consulate general on your behalf.
• A U.S. consular officer may be the only authorized visitor during your initial detention period.
• Bail is rarely granted.
• Pre-trial detention may last many months or years.
• The U.S. embassy and consulates general cannot represent you in legal matters. They can provide a list of local attorneys. 
• Travelers should enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).  

Dual nationality

• China does not recognize dual nationality. If you are a citizen of both the United States and China, and you enter China on a Chinese passport, Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents (台胞证 taibaozheng), or other China-issued travel document (such as a 旅行证 luxingzheng), Chinese authorities will treat you as a Chinese citizen and not acknowledge your U.S. citizenship.   
• If you have ethnic or historical ties to China, you might also be viewed as a Chinese national. If detained, Chinese officials may not notify U.S. authorities or allow U.S. consular officials to visit you. 
• This rule also applies to dual citizens of the United States and other countries. If you enter China on a non-U.S. passport, China may not recognize you as a U.S. citizen. In such cases, China may not notify U.S. authorities or grant access to consular officials.

Exit bans and detentions

China arbitrarily enforces local laws, including exit bans on U.S. citizens and others, without a fair process. In the past 5 years, the Secretary of State has determined that China wrongfully detained U.S. citizens.

• Foreigners in China – including businesspeople, former foreign government staff, academics, relatives of Chinese citizens involved in legal disputes, and journalists – have faced interrogation and detention for alleged violations of Chinese national security laws.
• The Chinese government may target U.S. citizens of Chinese heritage, those in family or business disputes, and individuals linked to U.S. law enforcement, military, or intelligence agencies for heightened scrutiny. This includes anyone involved in U.S. government-funded programs or with current or past ties to the U.S. government.
• Chinese authorities can declare many documents and data as state secrets. They may detain foreigners for alleged espionage. There is increased scrutiny of U.S. and third-country firms, especially professional services firms, operating in China.
• Security personnel can detain and prosecute U.S. citizens for conducting research or accessing publicly available material inside China.
• Security personnel can detain or deport U.S. citizens for sending private electronic messages that criticize the governments of China, Hong Kong SAR, or Macau SAR.

The Chinese government has used restrictions on travel or departure from China, or exit bans, to:

• Compel individuals to participate in Chinese government investigations;
• Pressure family members abroad to return to China;
• Resolve civil disputes in favor of Chinese citizens; and
• Gain bargaining leverage over foreign governments.

U.S. citizens often learn of exit bans only when trying to leave China. There may be no appeal process to challenge an exit ban in a court of law. Relatives, including minor children, of individuals under investigation may also face exit bans.

• Business and family disputes, court orders to pay a settlement, or government investigations into both criminal and civil issues may lead to an exit ban. This means you cannot leave China until the issue is resolved.
• Even individuals and family members who are not directly involved with, or even aware of, these proceedings can face an exit ban.
• The U.S. embassy or nearest consulate general can provide a list of local attorneys for U.S. clients but cannot intervene in civil cases.
• Chinese authorities may not inform the affected individuals of exit bans and there may be no appeal processes to resolve it.

In some cases, the Chinese government told U.S. citizens that exit bans would only be lifted if they provided certain testimony, even if it was false. Exit bans linked to civil or business disputes can last for years, blocking U.S. citizens from getting needed, often lifesaving, medical treatment outside of China.   

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in China.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• Counterfeit, pirated, or otherwise illegal items may be openly sold in China in markets or via online shopping platforms. You may still be fined, detained, or deported for purchasing or possessing these items.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice

Guns and ammunition  

China has strict laws about weapons and ammunition. Even accidental violations can lead to severe penalties, including detention, arrest, or imprisonment.

• Travelers must check all travel gear, backpacks, and bags to ensure they contain no bullets, cartridges, casings, weapons, munitions, or even remnants of munitions. 
• To reduce the risk of accidentally carrying banned items, use bags that have not been used for hunting or firearms. Travelers must follow Chinese laws closely to avoid serious legal consequences.  
• Some toys that shoot projectiles, like airsoft guns, may be considered weapons in China.
• Possessing ammunition, even antique or inert, can lead to fines, detention, an exit ban, or imprisonment.

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad 
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Religious activity in China  

• U.S. citizens have been interrogated, detained, or forced to leave the country in connection with religious activity. Missionary activity is effectively illegal, and real or perceived proselytization can lead to arrest and deportation.
• Even though the Chinese constitution permits freedom of religious belief, religious practice is only permitted within a small number of enumerated government-approved organizations.
• You may face fines, detention, arrest, or deportation if you participate in unapproved religious activities. This includes participation in private prayer meetings or Bible study groups.
• Chinese authorities restrict access to authorized religious activities and may limit, restrict, or prohibit religious gatherings without notice.
• U.S. citizens have also been detained or expelled for distributing religious literature, including Bibles, or engaging in unauthorized religious meetings. There are also strict regulations on what information you can post and distribute on Chinese social media platforms.
• If you bring religious literature to China, local law says that it must be a “reasonable amount” for your personal use only.
• If you try to bring larger quantities than allowed, authorities will confiscate the religious literature. You may also face fines, detention, or deportation.
• Foreigners in China are not permitted to participate in or organize religious activities with Chinese nationals without prior government approval. 
• Foreign citizens engaging in proselytizing, distributing religious materials, or conducting religious services or education with Chinese citizens without prior approval is strictly prohibited and may result in fines, detention, or deportation.
• While foreign religious congregations exist in China, the government’s recent tightening of regulations for foreigners’ religious activities have placed many groups in a regulatory grey zone and subjected them to heightened scrutiny and, in some instances, closure.
• In the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, authorities restrict behaviors that are common Islamic practices but that the government considers signs of “extremism,” such as growing “abnormal” beards, wearing veils in public places, fasting during religious holidays, and abstaining from smoking or drinking alcohol. The extent to which these restrictions would apply to a Muslim U.S. citizen visitor is unclear.
• Antisemitic online content and sentiment in China surged following Hamas’ attack on Israel in October 2023.

Gay and lesbian travelers

There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations or the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation.

• However, same-sex marriages are not legally recognized in China. Local authorities will not provide marriage certificates to same-sex couples. 
• Even though homosexuality has been decriminalized, there are no civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination or harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity. 
• Prejudices and discrimination still exist in many parts of the country.
• There are few reported incidents of violence against gay and lesbian individuals in China.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Tibet Autonomous Region, and Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures  

Extraordinary security measures are in place throughout several regions of China.

• China has restricted U.S. diplomats from traveling to the Tibet Autonomous Region. This limits the U.S. embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens in Tibet. It also affects support during emergencies, like natural disasters or injuries from mountain sports.  
• Extra security measures are common in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, the Tibet Autonomous Region, and Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures. These include security checks, more police, and increased surveillance.
• Authorities may impose curfews and restrictions on short notice. 
• They may also engage in invasive surveillance techniques against individuals. 
• Expect significant travel delays. Avoid gatherings and demonstrations, always carry your passport and valid visa, and follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Travelers with ethnic ties to the region may experience special restrictions, discrimination, and even arbitrary detention.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• U.S. citizens with disabilities or limited mobility may face challenges in China.  Sidewalks and paths may be uneven or nonexistent. 
• Sidewalks often do not have curb cuts or curb ramps. They are often crowded with bicycles and other vehicles. 
• Many streets can be crossed only via pedestrian bridges or underpasses accessible by staircase.  
• Assistive technologies for blind people and anyone with other vision disabilities are unreliable.
• Access to elevators in public buildings can be restricted.  
• In major cities, public restrooms in places visited by tourists usually have at least 1 accessible toilet. 
• Review the Persons with Disabilities in the Human Rights Report for the People's Republic of China (2022).
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

Academic freedom in China is limited. Authorities may investigate or punish students and institutions for views that go against Chinese government policies. 

• Censorship is common, and having banned material can lead to fines, detention, or deportation. This includes maps that do not conform to Chinese government policies.
• Students in higher education conducting research must exercise caution. China’s security services could detain and prosecute U.S. citizens for conducting research or accessing publicly available material if authorities deem it as sensitive or a national security risk.
• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

Women travelers in China are generally treated with respect and experience a high level of safety. 

• Violent crime rates are relatively low. Public spaces are well-monitored. 
• The local population is often welcoming to women travelers. Cultural norms may vary, and women travelers should remain mindful of local customs to avoid misunderstandings.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Genocide and crimes against humanity have occurred in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region against ethnic Uyghur Muslims and members of other ethnic and religious minority groups. 

Major human rights issues include credible reports of: 

• Arbitrary or unlawful killings.
• Disappearances.
• Torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
• Involuntary medical or psychiatric practices.
• Arbitrary arrest and detention by the government. 
• Acts of transnational repression against individuals abroad. 
• Serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media, including unjustified arrests and criminal prosecution of journalists, lawyers, writers, bloggers, dissidents, petitioners, and others. 
• Limits on internet freedom.
• Particularly severe violations of religious freedom.
• Cases of coerced abortions and forced sterilization.
• Human trafficking, including forced labor.
• Bans on independent trade unions and restrictions on workers’ freedom of association.
• Significant instances of the worst forms of child labor. 

The Chinese government has not taken credible steps to identify or punish officials who have committed human rights abuses. 

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for China before traveling.

Journalists and Press Freedom

Journalists in China are at high risk of detention and deportation. 

• The information environment in China is controlled by the Chinese Communist Party.
• Press freedom and freedom of expression are not respected. 
• Chinese authorities pressure foreign journalists to report favorably about China. 
• Please review our information on Journalist Travelers.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) China Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.  
• CDC Medical Tourism information  
• World Health Organization  
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 110 for emergency medical services.
• English services are often available in large cities. They are less available in rural or remote areas of China.

Ambulance services

• Dial 120 for ambulance services 
• Ambulance services are widely available in China, but they are often slow to arrive. Many lack advanced medical equipment.  
• Training of emergency responders may be poor.   
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance. 

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. 
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad. 
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance. 
• Medical care is not free in China. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. 
• Hospitals and doctors require payment prior to service or admission, even in emergencies, either via payment app or in cash.  
• Travelers will be asked to pay a deposit prior to admission to cover the expected cost of treatment.  
• Hospitals in major cities may accept foreign credit cards.  
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to China. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.  
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

• CDC Travelers’ Health for China
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available throughout China, but the standard of care is not generally the same as the United States. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics in rural areas may lack basic resources and supplies.
• Even at advanced or well-equipped hospitals, you may find it difficult to navigate the system due to cultural, language, and regulatory differences.
• Blood for transfusion, particularly Rh-negative blood, may be difficult to get in China.
• Before agreeing to any medical care, gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.
• Generally, public hospitals only have minimal staff available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Check with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States before you travel to make sure the medication is legal in China. Medications that may be legal in other countries, such as cannabis or its derivative products, are illegal in China.
• Counterfeit medication is common in China. However, it may not work, be the wrong strength, or have other dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• China restricts importation of medications common in the United States, including amphetamine medications like Vyvanse and Adderall. Exercise extreme caution when carrying these medications. Review China’s rules on medication with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America.
• China restricts the purchase and use of several medications common in the United States, such as epinephrine. Review China’s rules on medication with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Exercise caution using Traditional Chinese Medicine (“TCM”). Consult your healthcare provider before leaving to discuss any potential risks or interactions with medications you may be taking.

If you are considering using TCM while in China, please consider:

• Consult your doctor before traveling: Discuss any plans to use TCM with your healthcare provider. This is especially important if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking prescription medications.
• Verify the credentials of practitioners: Ensure that the TCM practitioner is licensed and reputable. Ask about their qualifications and experience.
• Be cautious with herbal remedies: Some herbal remedies may interact with medications or have side effects. Ask about the ingredients and potential risks.
• Avoid unregulated products: Be cautious about purchasing TCM products from unverified sources. They may contain harmful substances or contaminants.
• Monitor your health: If you experience adverse effects after using TCM, seek medical attention immediately. Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy (ART)

Surrogacy is illegal in China. Surrogacy contracts are generally not legally enforceable under local law. 

• For additional information, visit the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China and review our information on Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Individuals who try to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally not safe to drink.  
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day. 
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact. 
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water. 
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick. Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling. 
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery. 

Altitude

Many destinations in the Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, parts of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, and parts of Sichuan Province are at high altitudes over 10,000 feet.

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• Exercise caution when rapidly ascending to altitude without acclimatization.  
• Avoid strenuous physical activity until acclimatized.
• Properly prepare if engaging in activities at high altitude, such as visiting Mt. Kailash in the Tibet Autonomous Region.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude areas.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes, including the common symptoms of altitude sickness, information on pre-existing medical conditions, and tips on managing altitude sickness.

Air quality

While there has been some improvement in recent years, air pollution remains a significant problem in China. Pollutants such as particle pollution are linked to significant health effects. These effects are likely to be more severe for sensitive populations, including people with heart or lung disease, children, and older adults. 

U.S. citizens living in or traveling to China may wish to consult their doctor prior to traveling to areas with significant air pollution and take precautions.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in China. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• Review our information on Medicine and Health.
• China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment also provides its own air quality data for cities throughout the country.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• Traffic safety in China is generally poor. Driving can be dangerous. 
• Rules, regulations, and conditions vary greatly throughout China.
• Traffic can be chaotic and unregulated outside of major cities. The rate of accidents, including fatal accidents, is among the highest in the world.
• Motorcycle and bicycle accidents are frequent and often deadly.  
• Pedestrians do not have the right of way in China. Be extremely cautious when walking in traffic, even in marked crosswalks when the walk light is green. Child safety seats are not widely available.
• Drivers in mountainous areas may experience landslides or extreme weather conditions.

In several areas in China, including the Tibet Autonomous Region, the U.S. embassy and consulates general have limited ability to provide consular services in an emergency.

Traffic laws

• You can’t drive in China using a U.S. or international driver’s license.
• You can apply for Chinese driver’s license if you have a resident permit.
• If you are involved in a traffic accident, remain calm. Call the police and wait for their arrival. 
• If there are no injuries and damage is minimal, the parties often come to a financial agreement on the spot and do not report the incident.
• Unresolved disputes are handled by the legal system.
• In injury cases, the at-fault driver must pay the injured person’s medical costs. Sometimes, the police may keep your passport until all parties agree on compensation.
• Please review the Law of the People's Republic of China on Road Traffic Safety.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis and ride-shares are typically licensed by Chinese authorities.
• Be cautious when using taxi or ridesharing services that are not accessible through mobile applications. If you use the locally-approved taxi service, ask the driver to use the meter and get a receipt.
• Taxis may not accept credit cards. Confirm the taxi driver will accept your preferred form of payment before starting your journey.
• Have the name of your destination written in Chinese. Ask the driver to remove your bags from the trunk before you pay and get out of the taxi.

Public and commercial transportation

• Subways, trains, and buses are generally safe.  
• Public transportation is widely available in major cities. Pickpocketing is common on crowded buses and subways.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that China’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to China should check the following: 

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts 
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

The U.S. Coast Guard is unable to determine if effective anti-terrorism measures are in place in Chinese ports as required by 46 U.S. Code § 70108. Mariners and passengers traveling through Chinese ports should be careful and use stronger security measures.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur across China. They are common in areas near the Himalayan Mountains and near tectonic fault lines.

• Chinese authorities typically seal disaster areas. They restrict access to Chinese government agencies only.
• Review more information on crisis or disaster preparedness abroad.

Typhoons

The southeast coast of China experiences strong typhoons and tropical storms.

• Typhoons are common from July through September.
• For current information, please consult the Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Honolulu and the National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center.

Heatwaves

Deadly heatwaves in China can occur during the summer months.

• Heatwaves are most common in densely populated urban areas like Beijing and Shanghai.
• Regions with high humidity and in southern and eastern China also experience heatwaves.

Landslides

Landslides are common in mountainous areas. Carry sufficient supplies in case a landslide restricts your movement until local authorities can help you.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations, such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering with the Selective Service System.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.
• Contact the U.S. embassy or nearest consulate general for additional information.

Embassies and consulates