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Icelander visiting China

Visa not required

Max stay: 30 days

Visa-free from 8 November 2024 to 31 December 2026.
240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit to a third country or region (including Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan) using any mode of transport. Must have a confirmed onward ticket/itinerary, and enter through 1 of 64 approved ports.
- During which, may freely travel within the 24 provinces permitted for visa-free transit and engage in tourism, business, and visits.

24-hour visa-free transit to a third country or region (including Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan), is available at most international airports, without leaving the airport.
- Travellers who need to leave the airport may obtain a temporary entry permit from immigration.

5-day port visa (Visa on Arrival) for Shenzhen if arriving at designated ports of entry from Hong Kong by land or sea, for stays within Shenzhen.
3-day port visa (Visa on Arrival) if arriving in Zhuhai or Xiamen at designated ports of entry, for stays within the respective city.

15-day visa-free entry for cruise ship passengers in tour groups, if arriving at any cruise port along China's coastline, including but not limited to Tianjin; Dalian; Shanghai; Lianyungang; Wenzhou; Zhoushan; Xiamen; Qingdao; Guangzhou; Shenzhen; Beihai; Haikou; Sanya. May further travel inland to all regions of coastal provinces (and equivalents) and Beijing.

May apply for a port visa (Visa on Arrival) if travelling for an urgent, qualified reason. Prior clearance for port visa is highly recommended or may be denied boarding by airlines.

DISCLAIMER: Visa requirements are subject to change. Please verify with official sources before traveling.

Guidelines for Foreigners_National Immigration administration

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Entry Checklist

Valid passport with at least six months validity
Completed arrival/departure card

Health & Vaccinations

Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended.
Healthcare: Major cities have modern medical facilities, but quality varies in rural areas. Travel insurance is essential.
Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Safety & Security

Crime: China is generally safe, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. Be aware of scams.
Areas to Avoid: Exercise caution in areas with political sensitivities. Avoid public demonstrations.
Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120
- Fire: 119

Local Laws & Etiquette

Important Laws: Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including the death penalty. Photography of military installations and government buildings is prohibited.
Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions. Politeness and humility are valued. Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude.

Money & Currency

Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY) / Renminbi (RMB)
Exchange Info: Currency can be exchanged at banks and major hotels. ATMs are widely available in urban areas.
Typical Costs: Costs vary widely by city. A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Beijing or Shanghai can cost around $15-30 USD.
Payment Methods: Mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are dominant. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. Cash is less common.

Transportation

Getting Around: China has an extensive high-speed rail network. Major cities have efficient public transport (metro, buses). Taxis and ride-sharing apps are common.
Driving Requirements: An international driving permit is not recognized. A temporary Chinese driving license is required to drive.

Communication

Languages: Standard Chinese (Mandarin)
Internet & Mobile: Mobile phone coverage is extensive. Internet access is subject to censorship. VPNs are often used.
Useful Phrases:
- nee HOW — Hello
- shyeh-shyeh — Thank you