Risk level(s) Risk level(s) COVID-19 – Global travel advisory Effective date: March 13, 2020 Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice. This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel. More about the Global travel advisory China - Exercise a high degree of caution Exercise a high degree of caution in China due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Safety and security Safety and security COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. They may differ from region to region. Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing

Avoid crowded areas You may travel within the country if you have not travelled internationally and have not visited an area of increased risk in China in the past 14 days. Travel restrictions, including entry and exit requirements, may be in place in certain areas. In certain locations, you may be requested or required to use a mobile health application to share your movements with local authorities. At any point, you may be required to undergo COVID-19 testing or be quarantined based on your health condition, previous location or contact with others. Temperature checks are conducted in many locations, including hotels, stores and shopping centers. Concern over imported cases of COVID-19 remains high. Foreigners may be refused entry to certain businesses and other sites, including hotels and restaurants. Check your hotel’s restrictions before travelling. The Government of Canada’s ability to provide in-person consular assistance is limited, especially in areas where restrictions have been imposed. Consular services and assistance for Canadians in China Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region It is normal to see armed police in Xinjiang. Security checks are also common. Chinese authorities are increasingly detaining ethnic minorities in the region, without due process. Family members of Canadian citizens with Chinese citizenship have been detained. Though accurate information remains hard to obtain, violence and unrest in the region has appeared to subside since 2016. The situation remains tense. Extraordinary security measures remain in place. Expect significant travel delays due to these extraordinary security measures. Authorities may impose curfews and restrictions on short notice. Avoid gatherings and demonstrations, always carry ID and follow the instructions of local authorities. Terrorism There is a threat of terrorism. Since early 2014, a number of explosions and knife attacks have occurred in public places, including in busy railway stations, resulting in injuries and fatalities. There is a higher risk of attacks in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Further attacks cannot be ruled out. Targets could include: government buildings, including schools

places of worship

airports and other transportation hubs and networks

public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Crime Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft of mobile phones and laptop computers, is prevalent, even during the day. Criminals target foreigners, especially in major cities and tourist areas. Be vigilant in all crowded locations. Don’t carry large sums of money. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. While violent crime is relatively rare, foreigners have been attacked and robbed and some have been killed. Petty crime and sexual harassment can occur on buses and overnight trains. Ensure that the train compartment contains packages belonging only to you and other occupants. Store personal belongings in a safe place and do not leave the compartment unattended. Doors should be securely locked. There is a risk of armed bandit attacks in remote parts of China. Police presence may be poor around border areas. Scams Exercise caution in popular tourist areas (particularly in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square and Shanghai’s the Bund, East Nanjing Road and People’s Square), where scammers target foreigners. Taxis Taxi, motorcycle and pedicab drivers have sometimes overcharge clients, especially at airports. They may also attempt to give you counterfeit currency. Most taxi drivers don’t speak English or French, so you should arrange for a Chinese-speaking person to write out your destination in Chinese characters before you go. To minimize the risk of being overcharged: Use only reputable taxis.

Avoid unlicensed “black taxis.”

Do not agree to multiple passengers.

Negotiate fares prior to entering the taxi, and/or request that the taxi driver use the meter.

Request that the driver provide you with a receipt or “fapiao.”

Request that the driver remove your luggage from the trunk (if applicable) before you pay the fare. Extortion Locals may invite foreigners to a nearby establishment for a drink (usually tea or alcohol), a massage or other services. The targets of the scam then have to pay an exorbitant bill (sometimes thousands of dollars), sometimes under threat of injury. In some cases, the person was harmed. Be cautious of unsolicited requests from strangers to “practice English” or to accompany them to an art gallery, teahouse or an unknown location. Should you find yourself the victim in such a scam: Get to a safe location immediately.

Take note, as soon as possible and while your memory is still fresh, of the name and address of the facility where you were held. This information is required by police to identify the persons involved and issue a report.

Report the incident to the police and obtain a police report.

Call your credit card company to report the scam. They will likely request a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction. Telephone scams Foreigners have received calls from a caller claiming to be the police. The caller says that local authorities are investigating them for identity theft or money laundering operation, and requests a fund transfer to resolve the issue. Don’t send any money in this type of situation. More about scams abroad Internet censorship and cyber security China blocks access to several websites and online services within its territory, including Google, Gmail, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and some foreign news sites. Learn about cyber security while travelling. Tensions on Korean Peninsula Tensions on the neighbouring Korean Peninsula could escalate with little notice, and the security situation could deteriorate suddenly. Tensions may increase before, during and after North Korean nuclear and missile tests, military exercises or as the result of incidents or military activities at or near the inter-Korean border. Monitor developments, remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. We strongly recommend that you register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive latest updates. Registration of Canadians Abroad Demonstrations Demonstrations are illegal without prior approval from the Chinese government. Participants may be subject to severe legal action. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place

Follow the instructions of local authorities

Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations More about mass gatherings (large-scale events) Road safety Road conditions vary throughout the country. Drivers often don’t respect the rules of the road and traffic laws are not consistently enforced. Public transportation China has an extensive passenger train system, including high-speed trains. You must present a passport to purchase a ticket and to board the train. Taxis are available in major cities and are easier to obtain at hotels or taxi stands. Local taxis will sometimes avoid picking up foreigners to avoid the inconvenience of clients who don’t speak Chinese. Self-drive (rental) or chauffeur-driven cars are available for rent in major cities. Ride sharing services are also available in China. Marine transportation Ferry accidents have occurred in China. Exercise caution and common sense when using marine transportation. Always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets and seatbelts, and do not board ferries that appear overloaded or unseaworthy. Air travel We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards. General information about foreign domestic airlines Piracy Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre Trekking If you intend to trek: never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company

buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation

ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity

ensure that you are properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard

inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp

know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal

obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes

Entry/exit requirements Entry/exit requirements COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions In an attempt to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions for their territory. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel. Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions related to this situation. Restrictions imposed could include: Entry bans, particularly for non-residents

Exit bans

Quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost

Health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance

Border closures

Airport closures

Flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations

Suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans. Monitor the media for the latest information

Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans

Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions Foreign diplomatic offices in Canada – Global Affairs Canada COVID-19 – Travel to and from China Most airlines have suspended or reduced flights to and from China. A number of countries are denying entry to foreigners who have been in China up to 14 days before their planned arrival. All travellers arriving from outside of China are required to self-isolate for 14 days. You may be required to self-isolate in a central quarantine facility at your own expense. Compliance with the period of isolation may be monitored by local authorities. Beijing authorities require that all international passenger flights bound for Beijing be diverted to a third location for passengers to undergo health checks and clear customs before they arrive in the capital. Expect lengthy delays. You risk having to stay in the third location for a period of quarantine that could last 14 days. Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements. We have obtained the information on this page from Chinese authorities. It can, however, change at any time. Verify this information with foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada. Passport Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel. Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules. Regular Canadian passport Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry into China. Passport for official travel Different entry rules may apply. Official travel Other travel documents Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination. Useful links Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Canadian passports Visas Tourist visa: Required

Business visa: Required

Student visa: Required

Working visa: Required All visas and residence permits issued before March 28, 2020, to foreign citizens currently outside of China are suspended until further notice. You may re-apply for a visa if you must travel for exceptional reasons. Pay particular attention to the length of stay permitted after each entry on your Chinese visa. Overstaying can lead to fines and administrative detention. Temporary suspension of entry by foreigners – Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Transit without visa and visa-free stays Transit without visa and visa-free stay programs have been temporarily suspended. Temporary suspension of entry by foreigners – Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Visa application outside of Canada If you are applying for a visa outside of Canada, check with the Chinese embassy or consulate nearest you to make sure that it issues visas to Canadians. Visiting Hong Kong and Macao Obtain a visa allowing multiple entries if you plan to travel between Hong Kong, Macao and mainland China. Applying for visas for mainland China in Hong Kong - China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Hong Kong Proof of onward travel Be prepared to show proof of onward travel, including all of the documents you need to enter your next destination. Fingerprints Chinese immigration officials will take and retain the fingerprints of Canadians between 14 and 70 years old upon their entry into the country. Some exceptions may apply. Screening of digital devices Increased screening of travellers’ digital devices has been reported at border crossings between mainland China and Hong Kong. Residency registration All foreigners (tourists, visitors and long-term residents) must register their place of residence with the local public security bureau within 24 hours of arrival. If you are staying in a hotel, registration is normally done as part of the check-in process; those staying with family or friends in a private home must register themselves. Failure to do so can result in fines and/or detention. Carry proof of your registration. Foreigners holding Z, X or J-1 visas must also apply for a residence permit, within 30 days of entry, from the Exit and Entry Department of the local public security bureau. Tibet and Tibetan autonomous prefectures You must obtain a permit and be taking part in an organized tour to travel to Tibet. Contact a reputable travel agency, either within or outside of China, for more information. Chinese authorities occasionally suspend issuing permits to foreigners. Where possible, make full payment for travel conditional upon a travel permit being secured, while noting that changes in the security situation in Tibet can affect travel and related government policies at any time. Chinese authorities occasionally deny tourist entry to Tibetan autonomous prefectures in Sichuan and Qinghai. Contact a reputable travel agency before travelling to these regions. Exit bans Chinese authorities may place an exit ban on an individual to prevent them from leaving the country. An exit ban can relate to investigations into an individual, their family or an employer, and in criminal and civil matters, including business disputes. You may not be aware that authorities have placed an exit ban on you until you try to leave the country. It is difficult to obtain information on bans from Chinese authorities. If you are unable to leave the country because of an exit ban, consult a lawyer and contact the closest office of the Government of Canada. Children and travel Learn about travel with children. Yellow fever Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Laws and culture Laws & culture You must abide by local laws. Consult our Arrest and detention page and our Overview of the criminal law system in China for more information. Death penalty Chinese authorities apply, sometimes arbitrarily, the death penalty for both violent and non-violent crimes. Laws Detention during the investigative period before charges are laid is common and can be lengthy. Some defence lawyers may be reluctant to accept cases involving foreigners. Consult a Canadian government office in China if you experience such difficulty. Identification Carry adequate identification, such as a passport and valid visa or residence permit, at all times. Police carry out random checks and failure to produce proper identification could potentially lead to fines or detention. Keep a photocopy of your passport in case of its loss or seizure. Endangering national security Chinese authorities may define certain behaviours and activities as “endangering national security” that would not be considered as such in Canada. If you are suspected of endangering national security, you will be subject to questioning. Chinese authorities may detain you for up to 6 months before you are formally arrested. Note that access to legal representation is frequently denied in the initial stages of a national security case, and trials often take place in closed court. If you are detained, you should immediately request access to a lawyer and request notification of the nearest Canadian diplomatic mission. Canadian diplomatic missions can provide you or your family with a list of lawyers. If you previously occupied a position that was in any way affiliated with the government of China, and left your position without receiving authorization or without following formal procedures, you may be considered a defector by Chinese authorities. This can be the case regardless of the seniority of the position you occupied, even if you left this position a long time ago and you did not handle sensitive or classified materials. Authorities may detain you even if you have previously travelled to or resided in China without issue. Consult a Chinese criminal lawyer to understand how this may apply to you. Drugs Penalties for possession, use, production or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict and include the death penalty. These laws are strictly enforced and apply to persons 14 years and older. Penalties can be assigned arbitrarily. Local authorities conduct random drug tests (urine or hair). Police have raided nightclubs and bars and subjected patrons to on-the-spot drug testing. Based on positive drug test results, authorities can prosecute drugs crimes regardless of where or when drugs were consumed. This applies to drugs consumed legally in a foreign country before entering China. Alcohol, drugs and travel

Cannabis and international travel Prohibited items There are absolute prohibitions against arms, drugs and plant or animal products considered infested with disease or pests. There are also restrictions on the entry of printed matter, film, photos, videotapes and CDs considered detrimental to the interests of China. Importing pets If you intend to reside in China, be advised that only one pet (dog or cat) per person can be imported. A Canadian animal health inspection certificate and vaccination certificate should be stamped by your local Animal Health Office of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Animals without the proper documentation will be held in quarantine at the port of arrival and could be destroyed if the proper documentation is not provided. Find the Animal Health Office nearest you - Canadian Food Inspection Agency Religious activities There are restrictions on certain religious activities, such as preaching, distributing literature and associating with unapproved religious groups, including some Christian, Buddhist and Muslim organizations. Chinese law also prohibits overseas nongovernmental organizations from engaging in or sponsoring religious activities. The Falun Gong movement is banned in China. Participants in Falun Gong activities or Falun Gong-related demonstrations are subject to legal action that may include detention, arrest, imprisonment and deportation. Political activities There are restrictions on political activities, including participating in public protests or sending private electronic messages critical of the government. Participants may be detained and future travel to China may be restricted by Chinese authorities. Military installations Travel near military installations is restricted. Photography of military installations or government buildings is prohibited and offenders may be detained, arrested and imprisoned. Seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs. Gambling Gambling and the promotion of gambling activities is illegal in mainland China. LGBTQ2 travellers China does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Same sex marriages are not legally recognized in China. Some prejudice still exists against LGBTQ2 communities and authorities sometimes censor social media content on LGBTQ2-related topics. General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad Driving Canadian and international driving licences are not recognized in China. Foreigners must hold a foreigner residence permit and meet local requirements to obtain a Chinese driver’s licence. Carefully consider the implications of driving in China. Foreign drivers involved in an accident face harsh penalties. Police officers have the right to detain foreigners suspected of being responsible for road accidents until their case is closed, which can take years. Dual citizenship Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in China. If local authorities consider you a citizen of China, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. If you are a Canadian of Chinese origin travelling to China, you may be asked to provide your Chinese name by border authorities. Ensure that you are well informed about Chinese law and practices relating to determination and loss of Chinese citizenship, including cancelling a household register (hukou) and applying to renounce Chinese citizenship. Contact the nearest Chinese diplomatic or consular office for more details. Canadian children born to at least one parent who is a Chinese citizen may be deemed Chinese citizens under China’s Nationality Law. The child’s Canadian citizenship may not be recognized by Chinese authorities, and the family may be subject to family planning regulations. General information for travellers with dual citizenship Doing business in China Canadian business travellers have been detained and had their passport confiscated as a result of business disputes with their Chinese counterparts. Seek legal advice from professionals in China, as well as in Canada, before proceeding with business agreements or arrangements. Ensure that all documents are translated so that conditions, terms and limitations are understood. Disputes are often costly and prolonged, and you may be subject to a travel ban restricting you from leaving the country until the matter is resolved. There have been incidents involving foreigners being held against their will at their work place. These incidents, which can be accompanied by threats of violence, are often the result of other companies or disgruntled employees attempting to resolve business and employment disputes. Doing business in China - Canadian Trade Commissioner Service Teaching There are many teaching opportunities in China. However, make sure you are well informed before signing a contract. Ensure that the contract specifies the maximum number of classroom hours per day and per week, maximum work days per week, and vacation periods. Canadians teaching in China, particularly at newly established private secondary schools and private English training centres, have often found their employers unable or unwilling to honour contract terms or to assist in obtaining Chinese employment visas and other permits required for foreigners to teach lawfully in China. If you are travelling to China to work or study, you may be required to possess medical insurance (coverage of 400,000 renminbi). Verify this stipulation with the school or employer prior to arriving in China. It is illegal to work on a tourist (L) visa or on a working (Z) visa linked to a company other than your employer. Canadian citizens have been detained and forced to leave the country for working illegally. Studying Learn about studying abroad if you plan to study or conduct research in China. Money The currency is the renminbi (RMB). The basic unit of currency is the yuan. Counterfeit renminbi are relatively common, especially in southern China. It is illegal to use foreign currency. Exchange foreign currency at officially approved facilities only. Generally, only international hotels and some larger shops accept international credit cards. Some Chinese banks will provide cash advances using credit card accounts, but they may charge for the service. It is possible to use bank cards to draw on your Canadian bank account at an increasing number of ATMs, especially in urban areas. Credit cards are not always accepted and the availability of ATMs is limited outside major cities.