Travel Summary

• There have been confirmed reports that on 23 and 24 January Chinese security forces fired on protestors in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the west of Sichuan Province, following unrest in the area. It is likely that the Chinese authorities will limit access to this Prefecture. See Safety and Security - Domestic Unrest.
  
  
• You should not attempt to travel to Tibet without the appropriate permits. See Safety and Security - Local Travel - Tibet.
  
  
• The wet season runs from May to November, affecting in particular the southern and eastern coastal regions of China. Every year, tropical cyclones (typhoons) and heavy rains cause substantial disruption. See Natural Disasters - Typhoons.
  
  
• Demonstrations which do not have the prior approval of the Chinese authorities are considered by the local government to be unlawful and violators may be deported and could face imprisonment. Foreign journalists have been intimidated, assaulted or detained for trying to report demonstrations. See Safety and Security - Domestic Unrest.
  
  
• China is subject to earthquakes. In the aftermath of a natural disaster, follow the advice of local authorities. Try to make contact with your nearest British Embassy or Consulate-General to confirm your safety.
  
  
• There is a general threat from terrorism in China. See Safety and Security - Terrorism. 
  
  
• There are severe penalties in China for drugs-related offences including the death penalty. See Local Laws and Customs.
  
  
• Over 575,000 British nationals visited mainland China in 2010 (Source: National Tourism Administration of the People’s Republic of China). Most visits to China are trouble free. See General - Consular Assistance Statistics.
  
  
• China does not recognise dual nationality. If you hold Chinese nationality, the Chinese authorities may regard you as a Chinese national, regardless of the travel document with which you entered China. See Local Laws and Customs.
  
  
• All foreign nationals over the age of 16 must carry their passport at all times. You must register your place of residence with the local Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival. If you stay in a hotel, registration is done on your behalf as part of the check-in process. Police may carry out random checks.
  
  
• Take precautions against pick-pocketing and other street crime. You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General - Insurance.