Essential Tips for Your Business Trip to China

For UK citizens, a visa is required for travel to mainland China for business, tourism, or family visits. Hong Kong and Macau are separate for entry purposes, but travel onward into mainland China requires a valid Chinese visa.

1. Visa and Entry Requirements

Your passport should be valid for at least six months with sufficient blank pages. A business visa usually requires an official invitation letter from a Chinese company.

Applications can be made via the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre: visaforchina.cn.

Business travellers often prioritise efficiency and document accuracy, so many choose agency support for application preparation and review.

2. Staying Connected: SIM Cards and Internet

The major operators are China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. You can buy SIM cards at airports and stores, and a passport is required for registration.

If your stay is short, consider an eSIM you can activate on arrival.

3. Cashless Payments in China

China is highly cashless. Many merchants expect mobile payment rather than cash or foreign cards.

Set up Alipay in advance via App Store or Google Play, and link a UK card where supported.

4. Transport and Getting Around

High-speed rail is usually the best option between major cities. Official booking: 12306.

For local travel, ride-hailing apps such as Didi are common. Public transport in major cities is reliable and cost-efficient.

5. Hotels and Registration

Foreign visitors must register their stay through their accommodation. Not every hotel accepts foreign guests, so choose recognised business hotels or international chains.

6. Internet and Communication

Services such as Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp may be unavailable. If your workflow depends on them, prepare alternatives before travel.

Download translation tools and offline language packs before entering China.

This guide is designed to help business travellers prepare for a smoother and more productive trip to China.

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