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Can I travel to China? Travel rules from the UK explained 

By Connor Sturges

In December 2019, a cluster of Chinese citizens in Wuhan reported mysterious flu-like symptoms in what became the start of a pandemic that would change the world as we knew it. Countries closed their borders and leading scientists embarked on a mission to create effective vaccines, leading many travellers to rediscover the wonders on their doorsteps and the concept of the great British staycation .

Fast forward to January 2023, and China is welcoming tourists once again. Hundreds of millions of Chinese citizens will be hoping to travel domestically to join family ahead of Chinese New Year and see in the Year of the Rabbit, while curious international travellers are adding the country to their bucket lists once again for the year ahead.

These are the entry requirements, and the UK government's advice, as of Monday 9 January 2023.

Can I travel to China from the UK, and back again?

Yes, with some restrictions. After almost three years of Covid stalling China’s tourism industry, Thursday 5 January 2023 marked the opening of China’s borders to the world once again. However, as of Monday 9 January 2023, China remains in the midst of a Covid surge, meaning strict rules are in place for travellers wishing to visit the country.

What are the entry requirements for China?

Since international flights to China resumed on Thursday 5 January 2023, all travellers are required to take a pre-departure PCR Covid test in the 48 hours prior to travel. 

Once confirmed, a negative PCR test result can be submitted by filling in a health declaration form on the  China customs website . Negative results can also be submitted on the China customs app or a registered WeChat account. 

Travellers who display symptoms of fever on arrival in China may be asked to take a further antigen test. Self-quarantine will be imposed in the event of a positive test result and mild symptoms, while travellers can be sent to medical institutions for treatment if symptoms are more severe.

The UK government website recommends that all travellers pack a supply of medication to treat flu-like symptoms. It is also recommended that accommodation is stocked with additional food, water and medical supplies in case you are mandated to isolate.

What are the rules on returning to the UK from China?

All travellers aged 12 and over must obtain a negative pre-departure Covid test result no more than two days prior to travelling back from mainland China to the UK. Results are checked by airlines and Border Force officials in the UK. These rules currently apply to travellers on direct and indirect flights, and those arriving in England as a final destination plus anyone transiting through England.

Test results can be provided in the form of a printed document, an email, or text message, and must contain the following information:

• A full name that matches the name on travel documents
• Date of birth or age
• Result of the test
• Date the test sample was collected or received by the test provider
• Name of the test provider and their contact details
• Confirmation of the type of test taken, which can be a lateral flow or PCR

NHS-provided tests cannot be used as pre-departure tests. In addition to the required pre-departure tests when returning from mainland China, travellers arriving at London Heathrow Airport may be asked to undertake a voluntary test on arrival, as part of the UK government’s monitoring of potential new variants.

Are there any other entry requirements for travel to China?

According to the latest UK government website, travellers wishing to visit China on a British Citizen passport can do so by:

• Obtaining an “Invitation Letter” or “Verification Confirmation of Invitation” issued by a provincial foreign affairs office or department of commerce (M or F visa)
• Obtaining a “Notification Letter of Foreigners Work Permit” (Z visa)
• Visiting a family member with a Z, M, or F visa
• Intending to visit a family member who is a Chinese citizen or who holds a Chinese permanent residence permit
• Qualifying for a high-level talent (R) visa
• Qualifying for a transport crew (C) visa

Visa applications must be made, in person, at a Visa Application Centre. Note that biometric data (scanned fingerprints) has to be provided as part of the application process. Chinese Visa Application Centres in London , Manchester and Edinburgh are operating, but with limited opening hours. The Belfast centre remains closed.

More details, including the process for submitting forms for those still eligible, can be found on the Chinese Embassy website.

For more information and updated rules, visit the   UK government website before travelling. We also recommend ensuring you have valid   travel insurance with Covid cover before taking any trips.

Navigating China Travel Rules for UK Citizens: A Guide

China is a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike, and for UK citizens, the process of planning a trip to China can be a bit more complicated due to specific travel rules and regulations. It is important to be aware of these rules and regulations in order to ensure a smooth and successful trip.

First and foremost, UK citizens will need to obtain a visa in order to enter China. This process can be completed through the Chinese embassy or consulate in the UK. It is important to note that there are different types of visas available, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your specific travel needs. For example, a tourist visa will allow you to enter China for sightseeing and leisure activities, while a business visa will allow you to enter for business purposes.

In addition to obtaining a visa, UK citizens should also be aware of the current rules and regulations regarding COVID-19. China has implemented strict measures to control the spread of the virus, and travelers may be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test before entering the country. It is also important to note that travelers may be subject to quarantine measures upon arrival.

UK citizens should also be aware that there are certain areas of China that are off-limits to foreign nationals. These areas are typically located in sensitive border regions and are designated as military or restricted zones. It is important to check with the Chinese embassy or consulate before planning a trip to these areas.

Another important aspect of traveling to China is being aware of local customs and etiquette. This includes things such as removing shoes before entering a home, not pointing with your chopsticks, and not speaking loudly in public. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions in order to avoid offending anyone.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the current political climate in China. The UK government advises its citizens to exercise caution when traveling to China due to the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two countries. It is important to stay informed and to avoid getting involved in any political activities while in China.

Overall, China is a fascinating and beautiful country with a rich history and culture. By being aware of the travel rules and regulations, UK citizens can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to China. It is always a good idea to check with the Chinese embassy or consulate before planning a trip to China and also to check the government website for the latest travel advises.

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News and Insights

Latest news, latest testing requirements for travel from uk to china.

1. People going to China are required to take two nucleic acid rt-PCR tests within 48 hours before departure, and at least one of the nucleic acid rt-PCR tests should be taken within 12 hours before departure. For flights departing from the UK between 0:00 and 18:00, if it is difficult to conduct the last PCR nucleic acid test sampling within 12 hours before departure, a second PCR nucleic acid test sampling can be conducted within 24 hours before departure, and a rapid antigen test can be added within 12 hours before departure.

2. The relevant tests shall be conducted in designated institutions (please click on the "Read more" at the end of the article to check the list of designated institution). Passengers can decide to do all tests in the same inspection institutions or choose to do so at a combination of different locations. Personnel with negative test results can then apply for the health code at the Chinese Embassy or Consulates General: Chinese citizens apply through the WeChat mini-programme called "Epidemic Prevention Code, International Edition", while foreigners apply through the web version of the health declaration form.

3. When submitting the health code application, the following materials are required:  all test reports, the passport information pages, and an air ticket itinerary . Other materials are not required unless specially requested by the embassy or consulate at the destination. Please click " Read more " for more information. For those who combine different tests at different testing institutions, when applying, please select the institution that performed the last nucleic acid rt-PCR test as your testing institution.

4. The Chinese Embassy or Consulates General in the UK will issue health codes to eligible passengers in a timely manner. Considering that it takes time to verify the health codes, travelers to China are suggested to submit the application  at least three hours  before departure from the UK and keep mobile phone communication unblocked to avoid missing calls.

5.  People with a history of infection are required to start pre-examination at least six weeks in advance and only require two nucleic acid rt-PCR test reports after recovery . There is no specific institution where one must conduct the test, but the test report must indicate that they are PCR tests. Please submit your pre-examination application to the Chinese Embassy and or corresponding Consulate-General according to your region. The contact information are as follows:

The Chinese Embassy in the UK

[email protected]

The Chinese Consulate General in Manchester

[email protected]

The Chinese Consulate General in Edinburgh

[email protected]

The Chinese Consulate General in Belfast

[email protected]

6. The requirements for close contacts and people with suspected symptoms remain unchanged.

7. After landing in the UK (including Gibraltar), the crew will be tested and apply for a health code in accordance with the requirements of ordinary travelers to China.  There is no need to be quarantined for 14 days .

8. During the transition period from the date of this notice to  23rd May , health codes will be issued to those who are tested in accordance with the new and old requirements.

9. The testing requirements are adjusted based on the Covid situation and we will continue to make adjustments to the relevant requirements when needed. The global Covid situation is still serious and there is a high risk of cross-infection among international travelers. The Chinese Embassy or Consulates General in the UK would like to remind everyone to try to avoid long-distance or cross-border travel, and not to travel if it is not essential nor urgent: " non-essential, non-urgent, do not travel. "

This article is subject to the Chinese Embassy in the UK. Please click here to see the original notice.

Sun 9 Jun 2024

2024 newspaper of the year

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China travel restrictions: Which countries have new Covid rules for Chinese arrivals and what the UK is doing

China will restart international travel on 8 january.

When China relaxes border rules on Sunday 8 January, the UK, US, several EU members, India and Japan will be among the countries imposing fresh Covid border rules on its travellers.

The UK Government will require passengers aged 12 or over on direct flights from China to show proof of a negative Covid test before boarding a plane, citing lack of transparency from China about the scale of the Covid epidemic in the country and its surge in cases of the virus.

The European Union is working on a coordinated approach on how to handle arrivals from China, after Spain , France and Italy announced testing rules. Meanwhile, the Belgian government said it would test wastewater from planes arriving from China to detect any new Covid variants.

Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association, is among the industry leaders to have criticised these new restrictions. He said: “It is extremely disappointing to see this knee-jerk reinstatement of measures that have proven ineffective over the last three years.

“Research undertaken around the arrival of the Omicron variant concluded that putting barriers in the way of travel made no difference to the peak spread of infections”

China has threatened to reciprocate with entry restrictions for visitors from countries that implement rules for Chinese arrivals.

What are the UK’s rules on arrivals from China?

The UK measures will come into force on Thursday 5 January. Travellers aged 12 or over arriving from mainland China on a flight to England will be required to take a pre-departure Covid test. However, testing on arrival will be voluntary and those who test positive will not be subject to self-isolation or quarantine.

The only direct flights running from China are to Heathrow and Manchester airports. However, passengers who travel from China via a connecting flight with a ticket showing the UK as the final destination will also be subject to testing requirements.

Passengers landing in Manchester on a plane from China will not be offered voluntary Covid tests.

Mark Harper, the Transport Secretary, said: “China’s lack of reliable Covid data means these sensible, proportionate and temporary measures are needed ahead of their borders reopening.”

He added that the measures were to collect data on China’s Covid epidemic as the country has been reluctant to share its own.

The rules do not apply to arrivals from Hong Kong.

England is among a list of countries that plan to detect and assess any new Covid variants through these testing measures.

More from Travel

Which other countries are imposing rules on travellers from China?

• South Korea 

What are China’s new travel rules and can I visit?

China will lift its quarantine rule for inbound travellers on Sunday 8 January and it will resume visa applications for residents who wish to travel overseas.

It is not yet clear what the rules will be for international tourists who wish to visit China after 8 January.

However, tour operators are gearing up for a restart. Among them is Wendy Wu tours, a group touring specialist to China, said it has experienced one of its busiest weeks for China enquiries since 2019.

Wendy Wu, founder of Wendy Wu Tours, said that the company was ready to start its first group tours as soon as it receives the final green light from China.

She added that, following the border announcement, this next step was imminent.

“Demand is strong, particularly for the autumn tours running through September to November, plus we’ve seen a steady spike for bookings throughout 2024 and even to 2025.

“Wendy Wu Tours will be the first escorted tour operator back in China, and so given this, we are encouraging customers to keep a close eye on our website and socials for full details of the reopening plus dates for our first departures.”

China previously pursued a zero-Covid policy , and its borders have been effectively closed to tourism since March 2020.

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Get Your Tourist Visa for China: A Comprehensive Guide For UK Travellers

Planning a trip to China as a UK citizen? Obtaining a tourist visa for China may seem daunting, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a smooth and stress-free process. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a tourist visa for China specifically tailored for UK travellers. We will cover all the necessary requirements and procedures to ensure a successful application process. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or a family trip, this guide has got you covered.

• Obtaining a tourist visa for China is essential for UK citizens planning to visit the country.
• Understanding the specific requirements and procedures is crucial to ensuring a smooth application process.
• When applying for a tourist visa for China, it is important to present yourself as a genuine tourist and provide all necessary documentation.
• Processing time and visa fees should be taken into consideration when planning your trip and application process.
• By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided in this article, UK travellers can increase their chances of a successful tourist visa application for China.

Do I Need a Visa for China from the UK?

Before planning your trip to China, it’s important to understand whether you need a visa as a UK citizen. The answer is yes, UK travellers need a tourist visa to enter China. Without a valid visa, you will not be allowed to enter China.

The Chinese government offers different types of visas, including tourist, business, and student visas. As a UK tourist, you will need to apply for a tourist visa.

To obtain a tourist visa for China, you must meet certain requirements and go through a specific application process. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these requirements to ensure a successful application.

When applying for a tourist visa to China, you will need to provide certain documents, such as a valid passport, a recent passport photo, and flight and hotel reservations. Additionally, you will need to pay a visa fee and fill out an application form.

It’s important to note that the visa application process can take several weeks, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

Whilst planning for your journey to China, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the necessary China visa requirements for UK travellers . Failure to meet these requirements can result in delays or even the rejection of your application. A reputable travel agency offering escorted tours of China can also guide you on this matter.

To apply for a travel visa for China , you will need to provide the following documents:

The visiting visa China application process also requires payment of a fee. The fee varies depending on the visa type, processing time, and number of entries. You can find the latest fee information on the Chinese embassy or consulate website.

It’s important to note that the Chinese embassy or consulate may request additional documents or information at their discretion. Therefore, it’s recommended to apply for your China visa requirement well in advance to allow time for any potential delays or requests for additional information.

Obtaining a tourist visa for China can be a complex process, but with our step-by-step guide, you can ensure a smooth application experience. Follow these steps to ensure you meet the China visa requirements :

• Fill out the visa application form: Start by completing the application form, which can be found on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website. Ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date, taking extra care to provide correct passport details.
• Gather supporting documents: In addition to the application form, you will need to provide supporting documents. These include your passport, recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of travel arrangements (such as flight and hotel bookings).
• Submit your application: Once you have completed the application form and gathered all necessary documents, submit your application to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in London. You can choose to submit your application in person or by post.
• Pay the visa fee: The visa fee varies depending on the type of visa and processing time. Check the current fees on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website and ensure you include the correct payment with your application.
• Wait for processing: The processing time for a tourist visa for China can vary, so it is important to apply well in advance of your trip. The standard processing time is 4 working days, but express service and rush services are available for an additional fee. Check the processing time for your specific visa type on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website.
• Collect your visa: Once your visa application has been processed and approved, you can collect your passport with the visa from the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. If you submitted your application by post, your passport will be returned to you by post.

Following these steps and meeting the specified China visa requirements will increase your chances of a successful visa application. By ensuring all information is accurate and up-to-date, you can enjoy a stress-free application process.

When applying for a tourist visa for China as a UK traveller, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure a successful application process. Here are some tips to help:

• Prepare your documents: Make sure you have all the required documents ready before applying for your tourist visa for China. This includes your passport, application form, and any supporting documents such as flight itineraries and hotel reservations.
• Double-check your information: Ensure all the information on your application form is correct and matches the information on your supporting documents. Any discrepancies could result in your application being rejected.
• Present yourself as a genuine tourist: The purpose of a tourist visa is to travel for leisure, so make sure your application and supporting documents reflect this. Avoid mentioning business activities or work-related travel.
• Apply in advance: It is recommended to apply for your tourist visa for China at least one month before your intended travel date. This will allow enough time for processing and any potential delays.
• Use a reputable visa service: If you are unsure about the application process or need additional assistance, consider using a reputable visa service to help you with your application. This can ensure a smoother and more successful process.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of a successful application for your tourist visa for China. Remember to stay organized, double-check your information, and present yourself as a genuine tourist.

Once you have completed the application process, the processing time for a tourist visa for China typically takes around four working days for a standard application. However, if you need your visa faster, express services are available at an additional cost. You can have your visa processed in 2-3 working days with the express service or as quickly as the next working day with the same-day service. Please keep in mind that the processing times mentioned here are estimates and the actual processing time may vary depending on circumstances beyond the visa center’s control.

When it comes to visa fees, UK citizens can expect to pay £151 for a single-entry tourist visa. If you require a double-entry tourist visa, the fee is £181 and for a multiple-entry tourist visa, you will need to pay £301. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change without prior notice. You can pay the visa fee by cash, debit card, or postal order when you attend your appointment at the visa center.

Make sure you have all the necessary funds to cover the visa fee when submitting your application.

Being aware of the processing time and visa fees will help you plan your application process and travel itinerary accordingly. Make sure to submit your application well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any last-minute complications.

Obtaining a tourist visa for China as a UK traveller may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be a straightforward process. By understanding the visa requirements, ensuring all necessary documents are prepared, following the step-by-step guide, and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a successful application.

Remember, be honest and transparent in your application, and present yourself as a genuine tourist. The processing time for a tourist visa for China can vary, so be sure to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for your application to be processed.

Overall, obtaining a tourist visa for China can open up a world of adventure and new experiences. Use this guide to help you on your journey, and start planning your trip today!

Q: Do I need a visa for China from the UK?

A: Yes, UK travellers require a tourist visa to visit China.

Q: What are the China visa requirements for UK travellers?

A: UK citizens need to provide a valid passport, completed visa application form, recent passport-sized photo, proof of travel arrangements, and proof of sufficient funds.

Q: What is the step-by-step guide for applying for a tourist visa for China?

A: The application process involves filling out the application form, gathering the necessary documents, submitting the application to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center, paying the visa fee, and attending an appointment for biometric data collection.

Q: Do you have any tips for a successful tourist visa application for China?

A: It is recommended to submit all required documents accurately and completely, provide a detailed travel itinerary, ensure your passport has at least six months of validity, and avoid making any false statements during the application process.

Q: What is the processing time and visa fee for a China tourist visa?

A: The processing time may vary, but it usually takes around 4-5 working days. The visa fee for UK travellers is £151 for a single-entry visa.

Q: Where can I find more information on obtaining a tourist visa for China?

A: For more detailed information, you can visit the official website of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in the UK or consult the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your area.

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