Journey Roadmap

China Entry Playbook for Travel, Business, Visits and Work

Choose your journey purpose below and follow a structured, step-by-step action guide from preparation to long-term stay.

Before You Go

At the Border

Getting Settled

During Your Stay

Step 1 · Before You Go

Before You Go

Handle your visa (if required), connectivity, and app setup ahead of time so you can move smoothly from the moment you land.

Visa & Eligibility

Visa Check: Determine whether you qualify for visa-free entry or transit, or apply for a Tourist (L) or Transit (G) visa.
Standard Documents: Passport (>6 months validity), a basic trip plan, and printed flight & hotel reservations.

Mobile Payments

App Setup: Install Alipay and register with your foreign mobile number.
Card Binding: Complete real-name verification (recommended) and link your credit/debit card(s) etc.
Bank Notification: Contact your bank(s) to prevent blocks and verify your card limits

Connectivity & Apps

Data Plan: Choose between local SIM (consider a VPN), travel eSIM and international roaming.
Survival Apps: Install Nihao China (recommended), WeChat, Trip.com, Amap/Apple Maps

Packing & Bookings

Customs & Luggage: Check rules on cash, power banks, medications, food/plants, tobacco/alcohol, pets, drones, and valuable gifts.
Bookings & Tickets: Book domestic flights and trains, and reserve attraction time slots, as needed.

Step 2 · At the Border

At the Border

Know what to expect at customs and immigration so you can clear the border quickly and without surprises.

Onsite Entry Procedures

Arrival Card: Complete online, via self‑service kiosk or paper form.
Fingerprints: Collected through self-service or with staff assistance, unless exempted.
Inspection: Present passport and arrival card, and answer questions.
Luggage & Customs: Retrieve belongings and go through Customs.

Step 3 · Getting Settled

Getting Settled

Accomplish essential tasks during your first 24 hours on the ground.

On Your Way

Cellular Connection: Connect your cellphone to the local network.
First Ride & Payment: Navigate your way by taxi, ride-hailing, shuttle bus, or subway. Meanwhile, complete your first local digital payment.

Your First Stop

Hotel: Check in for your first night's stay. Be aware of the temporary residence registration rule (usually handled automatically).
Heading out: Explore the neighborhood using a map app and the WeChat mini-program Dianping.
Dining & Retail: Scan QR codes to view menus and place orders, then scan/present codes to pay for meals, street food, groceries, etc.

Step 4 · During Your Stay

During Your Stay

Make the most of your trip by leveraging China's advanced digital infrastructure, while staying mindful of your permitted stay limits and travel logistics.

On-the-Go Convenience

Power Banks: Rent and return them at charging stations.
Shared Bikes: Solve the "last mile" transit gap or enjoy scenic rides on two wheels to cover more ground without getting exhausted.
Use apps or mini-programs to find spots, book tickets, get around, order food/drinks, and shop.

Moving Between Cities

High-Speed Rail: Use your physical passport at the manual gate without a paper ticket.
Changing Hotels: Each check-in triggers a new temporary residence registration (usually handled automatically).
Transit Boundaries: Stay within your designated cities and provinces if going on a transit trip.

Spending

Tax Refunds: Claim your tax refunds at the airport departure hall before checking in, preferably using the Nihao China app.
Tipping: It is not expected or practiced in China.

Step 1 · Before You Go

Before You Go

Handle your visa (if required), connectivity, and essential apps ahead of time to stay productive from day one.

Visa & Eligibility

Visa Check: Determine whether you qualify for visa-free entry or transit, or apply for an M Visa (Commercial) or F Visa (Non-commercial).
Standard Documents: Passport (>6 months validity), a basic business itinerary, printed flight & hotel reservations and an inviation letter.

Mobile Payments

App Setup: Install Alipay and register with your foreign mobile number.
Card Binding: Complete real-name verification (recommended) and link your credit/debit card(s) etc.
Bank Notification: Contact your bank(s) to prevent blocks and verify your card limits

Connectivity & Apps

Data Plan: Choose between local SIM, travel eSIM and international roaming.
Global Access: Prepare a reliable VPN for access to overseas tools.
Survival Apps: Install Nihao China (recommended), WeChat, Trip.com, Amap/Apple Maps

Packing & Bookings

Customs & Luggage: Check limits on cash, power banks, medications, alcohol/tobacco, and trade samples.
Bookings & Access: Book domestic transport, secure trade fair or visitor passes early, and reserve attraction time slots if adding leisure travel.

Step 2 · At the Border

At the Border

Know what to expect at customs and immigration so you can clear the border quickly and without surprises.

Onsite Entry Procedures

Arrival Card: Complete online, via self‑service kiosk or paper form.
Fingerprints: Collected through self-service or with staff assistance, unless exempted.
Inspection: Present passport, arrival card and invitation letter, and answer questions.
Luggage & Customs: Retrieve belongings and go through Customs.

Step 3 · Getting Settled

Getting Settled

Settle into your accommodation, get your work setup ready, and review your schedule for the days ahead.

On Your Way

Cellular Connection: Connect your cellphone to the local network.
Airport Transfer: Meet your arranged pickup at the gate, or take a taxi/ride-hailing to make your first local digital payment.

Your First Stop

Hotel: Check in for your first night's stay. Be aware of the temporary residence registration rule (usually handled automatically).
Work Setup & Sync: Test your VPN & work apps and confirm your upcoming agenda with your local contact.
Local Navigation & Downtime: Join host-arranged plans or find nearby spots via Apple Maps/Amap. Scan table-side QR codes with Alipay or WeChat to order and pay.

Step 4 · During Your Stay

During Your Stay

Stay focused on your agenda while smoothly managing day-to-day transit, intercity travel, and local spending.

On-the-Go Convenience

Power Banks: Keep your cellphone charged on the go by carrying your own or renting one at charging stations using Alipay or WeChat.
Getting Around for Appointments: Hail rides via WeChat, Alipay, or Nihao China, or follow your host's arrangements.
Local Messaging: Rely on WeChat to coordinate with local partners, clients, colleagues, and organizers.

Moving Between Cities

High-Speed Rail: Use your physical passport at the manual gate without a paper ticket.
Changing Hotels: Each check-in triggers a new temporary residence registration (usually handled automatically).
Transit Boundaries: Stay within your designated cities and provinces if visiting on visa-free transit (TWOV).

Spending

Tax Refunds: Claim your tax refunds at the airport departure hall before checking in, preferably using the Nihao China app.
Tipping: It is not expected or practiced in China.

Step 1 · Before You Go

Before You Go

Align your visa, host arrangements, and essential apps before departure so your visit starts smoothly.

Visa & Eligibility

Visa Check: Determine whether you qualify for visa-free entry or transit, or apply for a Family Reunion (Q) or Private Visit (S) visa.
Core Documents: Passport (>6 months validity), a basic trip plan, and printed flight & hotel reservations (if applicable).
your host's invitation letter, copies of their ID and residence document (for foreigners), and proof of your family relationship.

Trip Planning

Confirm your host's address and coordinate arrival plans
Check if your host needs to arrange local registration
Plan your itinerary around family events or holidays
Review any health requirements for your visit

Connectivity & Apps

Set up a China SIM/eSIM and VPN before departure
Install WeChat to stay in touch with family
Link a card to Alipay for daily payments
Download offline maps and a translation app

Step 2 · At the Border

At the Border

Clear customs and immigration smoothly with your host details and invitation letter on hand.

Customs Declaration

Declare cash over RMB 20,000 or the foreign currency equivalent
Check restrictions on gifts, food, and personal items
Use the correct customs channel on arrival
Keep receipts for valuable gifts you're bringing in

Visa Validity Check

Confirm your visa's number of entries and valid duration
Check the maximum stay allowed per entry
Keep your invitation letter and host details accessible
Verify your visa matches the purpose of your visit

Immigration Check

Fingerprinting applies to travelers aged 14–70
Complete the arrival card with your host's address
Have your host's contact information ready
Check your entry stamp for authorized stay length

Step 3 · Settling In

Settling In

Take care of local registration and daily basics so you can relax and enjoy time with family.

Local Registration

Register with local police within 24 hours of arrival
Your host is responsible for registering you at their residence
Hotels register guests automatically at check-in
Keep your registration slip for future reference

Payments & Banking

Link a foreign card to Alipay or WeChat Pay
Keep some cash on hand for smaller vendors
Ask your host for help with local payment apps
Test a payment before you need it for essentials

Local Support

Save your host's address in Chinese for taxis and deliveries
Learn basic local transport options with your host's help
Keep a list of nearby essentials — pharmacy, clinic, market
Exchange emergency contacts with your host

Step 4 · During Your Stay

During Your Stay

Keep your visa status in order and stay connected while you make the most of your time together.

Staying Compliant

Track your visa's permitted length of stay
Apply for an extension at the local PSB if you wish to stay longer
Report any change of address to local police
Keep your passport and visa documents accessible

Staying Connected

Keep your VPN and SIM active for the duration of your stay
Save your embassy and host's contact information
Check in periodically with family back home
Keep a digital copy of your passport and visa

Departure Checklist

Confirm your visa allows your full length of stay
Reconfirm your outbound flight and check-in details
Wrap up farewell arrangements and settle local matters
Keep your entry stamp visible for departure control

Step 1 · Before You Relocate

Before You Relocate

Secure your work permit and visa, and plan your move so you can start your new role without delay.

Work Visa Application

Secure your Work Permit Notice before applying for a Z visa
Gather documents: contract, degree certificates, health check, criminal record check
Have documents authenticated and translated as required
Apply for your Z visa once your Work Permit Notice is issued

Relocation Planning

Confirm your employer's onboarding and relocation support
Arrange shipping or transport of personal belongings
Research housing options near your workplace
Review your employment contract terms before departure

Connectivity & Apps

Set up a China SIM/eSIM and VPN before departure
Install WeChat and Alipay ahead of arrival
Link a foreign card to Alipay for initial payments
Download offline maps and a translation app

Step 2 · Arrival & Immigration

Arrival & Immigration

Clear customs and immigration with your work permit and contract ready for inspection.

Customs Declaration

Declare cash over RMB 20,000 or the foreign currency equivalent
Check rules on bringing personal effects and electronics
Keep an itemized list for goods being relocated
Use the correct customs channel on arrival

Z Visa Validity

Confirm your Z visa's single-entry validity window
Note the deadline to convert to a residence permit after arrival
Keep your Work Permit Notice and contract accessible
Verify your entry purpose matches your Z visa

Immigration Check

Fingerprinting applies to travelers aged 14–70
Complete the arrival card with your employer's details
Have your employer's contact information ready
Check your entry stamp for authorized stay length

Step 3 · Legal Setup

Legal Setup

Complete the legal steps every new hire needs — registration, permits, banking, and housing.

Police Registration

Register with local police within 24 hours of arrival
Hotels register guests automatically; private housing needs manual registration
Keep your registration slip — required for later applications
Update registration whenever you change address

Work & Residence Permit

Complete your Work Permit application through your employer
Convert your Z visa to a Residence Permit within 30 days
Prepare a health check certificate if required
Residence permits are typically valid for 1–5 years

Banking & Housing

Open a local bank account with your passport and registration slip
Sign a formal lease — required for your residence permit
Link your card to Alipay and WeChat Pay
Ensure your landlord registers the lease with authorities

Step 4 · Living & Working

Living & Working

Settle into daily life and stay on top of renewals so your relocation stays smooth long-term.

Ongoing Compliance

Renew your residence permit before it expires
Report any change of address or employer to the PSB
Keep your work permit and residence permit accessible
Review annual health check requirements if applicable

Settling Into Life

Set up utilities, internet, and local delivery services
Explore local healthcare options and insurance coverage
Join local or expat communities for support
Learn basic transport and payment routines

Long-term Planning

Understand tax obligations for foreign employees in China
Plan for dependent visas if relocating with family
Keep copies of all permits and contracts up to date
Review your permit renewal timeline annually

Personalized Guidance

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