Summary

Latest update: Summary - removal of advice about Typhoon Dujuan

There were several explosions in the port city of Tianjin on 13 August, causing numerous casualties. If you are planning to travel to Tianjin you should follow the advice of the local authorities.

The tropical cyclone (typhoon) season in China normally runs from May to November, affecting the southern and eastern coastal regions of China. You should monitor the progress of approaching storms and follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders. See Typhoons

There is a general threat from terrorism. but the risk of attacks is higher in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous region.

A number of people were injured in a knife attack at Guangzhou railway station on 6 March 2015. There were 3 significant terrorist attacks in 2014, 2 of which took place in Xinjiang. This marks an increase in the scale and frequency of violent attacks in China, and the Chinese government has blamed extremist Uyghur groups.

Although foreigners have not been specifically targeted, attacks could occur in places visited by foreigners. You should be particularly vigilant in Xinjiang. Outside of Xinjiang you should be vigilant when transiting public transport hubs, which have been the subject of recent attacks. See Terrorism.

Take particular care if you’re travelling in Tibet. Don’t attempt to travel to Tibet without the appropriate permits. Tibetan Autonomous Region (or Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures in neighbouring Provinces) can be closed to foreigners without notice. See Local travel

China is prone to earthquakes. An earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck parts of Xinjiang on 12 February 2014. Please check with local authorities before travelling to this area. See Natural disasters

Cases of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) have been reported in eastern and southern China. See Health

Territorial disputes between China and neighbouring countries have caused high regional tension. There have been a number of anti-Japanese demonstrations in several cities across China. See Political situation

Foreign nationals over the age of 16 must carry their passport at all times. See Local laws and customs

You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival. See Entry Requirements

Police have the power to detain you or prevent you from leaving China if you are suspected of a crime; have outstanding court action against you, or are involved in any kind of business dispute. This is called a travel ban. There are severe penalties in China for drugs-related offences including the death penalty. See Local Laws and Customs Safety and Security

China doesn’t recognise dual nationality. If you hold Chinese nationality, the Chinese authorities may regard you as a Chinese national. See Local Laws and Customs

Over 570,000 British nationals visit mainland China every year. Most visits are trouble free.

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.