Visa-Free Entry (for many nationalities)

• China now allows visa-free entry for up to 30 days for citizens of certain countries, including much of Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, and recently Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, with the policy effective through at least December 31, 2025https://www.visaforchina.cn/DEL3_EN/tongzhigonggao/327343163872251904.html

Visa Application 
For those who need a visa, when you apply you will need the following:

• Documents showing the itinerary including air ticket booking record (round trip) and proof of a hotel reservation, etc. or an invitation letter issued by a relevant entity or individual in China. The invitation letter should contain
  •  Information on the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, etc.)
  • Information on the planned visit (arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, etc.)
  • Information on the inviting entity or individual (name, contact telephone number, address, official stamp, signature of the legal representative or the inviting individual)

Visa Application Center: https://www.visaforchina.cn/DEL3_EN/qianzhengyewu

• VPN is Essential: Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and many Western apps are blocked. Download a reliable VPN (e.g. ExpressVPN, NordVPN) before you arrive.
• WeChat & Alipay: Download these two apps ahead of time — they’ll become your everything: messaging, payment, navigation, and even scanning menus.

• Cash is Rare: China is almost entirely cashless.
• Tourist Tip: As of 2023, WeChat Pay and Alipay allow foreign cards (Visa, MasterCard) to be linked for short-term visitors. Set this up ASAP.
• No Tipping Culture: Tipping is not expected and may even be refused.

• High-Speed Rail: Fast, efficient, and covers most major cities. Book via Trip.com (in English) or ask your hotel concierge.
• Taxis & Rideshare: Didi (China’s Uber) - the app has an English version. Always confirm price and location.
• Subway: In major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, subways are economical, clean, and foreigner-friendly.

• WeChat Translate: Automatically translates Chinese text messages and even images.
• Download an offline app to help to help you in a pinch. 
• WeChat: A must-have for communication, payments, and more.
• Alipay: Used for mobile payments in most establishments.
• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Bypass internet restrictions and access blocked websites like Google and social media.
• DiDi (China's Uber): For ride-hailing services.

• Tap Water: Visitors should drink bottled water. Always use bottled or boiled water.
• Ordering Food in Restaurants: Most places use QR codes to order. Use WeChat to scan and pay.
• Food App: Meituan for food delivery (WeChat login works).

• SIM Cards: Buy a local SIM at the airport (China Unicom or China Mobile), or ask for an eSIM compatible option if you want to keep your number.
• Data is Fast & Inexpensive: Expect 5G in most major cities.

• Carry Your Passport: You may need to show it at hotels, train stations, and banks.
• Respect Local Norms: Be mindful of sensitive topics (e.g. politics, history) in conversation and online.