Questions and Answers About China Travel Visas
China is one of the top ten travel visas that we process the most. We put together a page of the common questions we get from applicants. If you have a question we haven’t covered in this blog post, just contact our office at 713-874-1420 or write us at info@texastower.net.
Is a passport required for entry to China?
Yes. Your passport will need to have a minimum of six months validity remaining. Passports with less will result in deportation from China.
I heard about a 10-year Visa for China, how does that work?
Exactly like a regular travel visa, it’s just valid for ten years. It’s a good thing for individuals who travel frequently to Hong Kong or Macau, allowing for multiple entries to China.
Is a valid visa required to exit China?
Yes. You need to leave China before the expiration date on your travel visa.
Is China a country I can obtain a visa at on arrival?
No. You must have a visa prior to arriving in China.
Are vaccinations required?
China does not require vaccinations for U.S. citizens entering the country. Be aware that influenza, typhoid, measles, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and tuberculosis are prevalent and travelers should get boosters against all these conditions prior to visiting China. Talk to your personal physicians about the vaccinations you need several weeks before your trip to China.
Does the State Department recommend any safety precautions?
While violent crime isn’t common in China, they do advise being aware of your surroundings at all times when traveling in China. Also “110” is the Chinese version of “911.” However, be advised very few English-speaking individuals staff their emergency lines.
What is the “Tourist Tea” scam?
Young Chinese individuals invite tourists out for tea then stick them with a huge bill.
I heard about a phone scam on travelers in China, how does that work?
The State Department has reported that individuals traveling in China have received phone calls in the hotel rooms that they need to wire money immediately to a police officer to avoid arrest for a supposed crime. The State Department advises any U.S. citizen receiving a call like this to immediately contact the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) to verify the caller’s identity.
What are “Black Cabs?”
These are mostly encountered at airports. Black cabs are essentially unlicensed, un-metered taxi cabs. The State Department advises that travelers always have the driver remove any bags from the trunk of the taxi before paying.
How can I avoid counterfeit currency in China?
Counterfeit currency is an on-going issue in China. The State Department advises that travelers use small bills and only use ATMs at trusted financial institutions.
What types of travel visas does Texas Tower process?
We can obtain both business and tourist visas for China.
What forms do I need for a China Visa?
We have a dedicated page for that, you can begin the process here using our handy list of documents you will need to get your China visa.