China Entry Requirements for Travellers 2025

Whether you're heading China for business or leisure, understanding China entry requirements is a must for a smooth journey. We've got all the latest updates and tips to ensure you're fully prepared for your adventure in China. Check out everything you need to know about Singapore to China travel requirements.

Visa requirements for Singaporeans travelling to China

Singaporeans travelling to China for tourism can enjoy 30-day visa-free access for short visits. However, if you plan to stay longer, engage in business, or visit family, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa (e.g., tourist, business, or family visa).

The application process typically requires a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and supporting documents such as flight bookings or an invitation letter. Visa processing usually takes 4-7 business days, so it's best to apply in advance. If you want to apply for China visa for domestic helper, S2 Visa is required.

Important tips

• Apply early: While the visa application process isn’t usually lengthy, it’s best to apply a few weeks in advance of your trip.
• Consular updates: Keep an eye on the Chinese Embassy or Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) for any updates or changes to visa requirements.

Required documents for entering China

1. Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into China.
2. Visa: For tourism, business, or family visits, you'll need to apply for a China visa unless you're eligible for 30-day visa-free entry.
3. Visa application form: Complete the appropriate visa application form based on your purpose of travel.
4. Passport-sized photos: Typically 2 recent passport-sized photos (check requirements for size and background).
5. Flight and hotel details: Proof of onward travel (return flight) and hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a Chinese host (for business or family visits).
6. Additional documents:

• For business travellers: An invitation letter from a Chinese company.
• For students: Admission letter from a Chinese educational institution.
• For family visits: Proof of relationship.

Reminder: Foreign citizens are also required to fill in an arrival card for inspection before entering China.

Customs and declarations

What you can bring into China

• Personal items: Personal use are generally allowed without restriction.
• Duty-free items: Alcohol and tobacco products are allowed within limits (usually 1 liter of spirits, 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars, etc.).

Prohibited or restricted items

• Substances: Severe penalties for the possession of banned items.
• Pornographic materials: Any form of pornography is prohibited.
• Endangered species: Products made from endangered species, like ivory, are banned.
• Counterfeit goods: Bringing in counterfeit products is illegal.

Currency declaration

• Chinese Yuan (CNY): If you’re carrying more than ¥20,000 (or equivalent), you must declare it at customs.
• Foreign currency: For amounts over USD 5,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, declaration is required.

Electronics & goods for commercial use

If you’re carrying electronics or items that could be seen as for resale or commercial use (like multiple phones, cameras, etc.), you may need to declare them.

Health-related restrictions

Some medicines and health products are restricted or require special permits. It’s important to check if the items you're bringing require approval from Chinese authorities.

Agricultural and food products

Bringing in fresh food, meat, or dairy is heavily restricted. Always check the list of permitted and prohibited items before packing.

❤️Tip: Always err on caution when declaring items at customs. If in doubt, declare it to avoid fines or confiscation.

Tips for your China trip

• Download useful apps: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. You can set these up before arrival.
• Public transport: China has a fantastic public transportation system, especially the high-speed trains and subways in major cities. If you prefer car hailing, download Didi, China’s version of Uber, which is great for getting around.
• Internet and access: It’s easy to buy a China eSIM or local SIM card for internet access in China.