China Travel Visa

U.S. citizens must obtain a visa prior to arrival in China and passports must have at least six months' validity remaining. The lack of either will result in a fine and immediate deportation. Apply for a ten-year multiple entry visa, useful for repeated travel or trips to Hong Kong or Macau with returns to China. You must have a valid visa to exit China and you must leave China before the expiration of the listed duration of stay. Be sure to visit the U.S. State Department website for the latest travel advisories related to China. And it’s always important when traveling abroad to understand the health and vaccination protocols outlined by the Centers for Disease Control.

Travel tips:
Most stores, restaurants, and hotels in China accept major U.S. debit and credit cards. However, cash is often required in the countryside and villages. Many Chinese banks do not accept foreign cards, but western bank ATMs can be used to withdraw local currency from foreign bank accounts. ATM withdrawals usually have better exchange rates than currency exchange services. Tipping is not common in China and tourists are not expected to do so. Sharpen your haggling skills; never accept the marked price or first price offered. And be aware, toilet paper is rarely found in public restrooms in China.