Your passport is your single most important document in China — you will need it for hotels, trains, and even buying a SIM card.
Validity rules
- Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date
- Needs at least 2 blank visa pages
- Damaged passports (water damage, torn pages) can get you denied boarding — airlines check
Before you leave
- Scan your passport's photo page and email it to yourself
- Carry 2 printed copies separately from the original
- Note your embassy's phone number and address in China
- If you have dual nationality, travel in and out on the same passport you used to book flights
Entry paperwork
The paper arrival card is being phased out — you can now complete the online arrival declaration up to 24 hours before landing through the National Immigration Administration website or app. You'll also get fingerprinted at immigration (ages 14–70).
During your trip
- Hotels must photocopy your passport at check-in (this is normal and required by law)
- Carry the original for train travel and bank/exchange services
- For daily sightseeing, a paper copy plus your driver's license is usually fine — lock the original in the hotel safe
Losing your passport is the one real trip-ruiner. Read our Lost Passport guide in Safety & Help before you go, just so you know the drill.