Chengdu Post Closure
Due to the increasing suspension of airlinks and unprecedented operational pressures, New Zealand has temporarily withdrawn staff from its Consulate-General in Chengdu. Consular services for New Zealanders in Chengdu will be provided by the New Zealand Embassy in Beijing until further notice.

New Zealanders who require emergency consular assistance should contact the 24/7 Consular emergency line on 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand) or +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand).

COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
If, despite our advice, you travel to China, you should be aware that Chinese authorities have imposed travel restrictions and quarantine requirements to prevent the spread of the virus within China. New measures may be imposed at short notice and specific details may change rapidly, including where, to whom they apply, and for how long. Ensure you are aware of any restrictions that may affect you, and follow the instructions of the Chinese authorities. Travellers are encouraged to contact the nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate for up-to-date advice.

For information on countries and territories which have COVID-19 related border restrictions affecting foreign nationals, including travellers in transit, please check the International Air Transport Association (IATA) website [2] before you travel.  IATA provides a comprehensive list of all countries and territories that have imposed COVID-19 related border restrictions and is being continually updated.

The number of flights between New Zealand and China has significantly reduced. Airlines will have the most up-to-date information about flight availability.

As part of its response to managing the COVID-19 outbreak, the New Zealand Government has some temporary travel restrictions in place in New Zealand. Please refer to the New Zealand Ministry of Health website [3] for up to date information.

For further travel advice and information about COVID-19, please see our webpage here [4]. We encourage all New Zealanders living and travelling overseas to register with us [5].

Travel Insurance
If you travel to China despite our advice, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance which covers all medical costs, including medical evacuation. The New Zealand Government cannot assist with medical costs.

Be aware that travel insurance policies often have exceptions for countries that have a travel advisory risk level of “do not travel”. Check whether you are covered with your insurance provider.

Crime
China has low crime rates generally, however petty theft targeting foreigners such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft of passports, laptops and cellphones occurs. You should take appropriate steps to ensure that your belongings are secure, particularly on public transport, in popular tourist locations and shopping districts. New Zealanders should also be wary of ATM and credit card fraud, and only use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business. There is also some risk of receiving counterfeit currency.

There is a risk of armed banditry in remote areas bordering Pakistan, Myanmar, Laos, Viet Nam and Russia. Be vigilant if travelling in these areas.

Terrorism
Terrorist attacks are possible in China. New Zealanders in China are advised to pay close attention to their personal security at all times, monitor local media for security threats and follow any instructions issued by local authorities.

Scams
New Zealanders should be wary of scams targeting tourists when travelling in China. Common scams involve a tourist being invited for a massage, tea tasting or to a café or bar for a variety of reasons including to practice English. The tourist is then pressured to pay an exorbitant bill which may be accompanied with threats of violence, assault and credit card skimming.

Civil unrest
Demonstrations occur from time to time and there has been civil unrest in the Xinjiang Uyghur and Tibet Autonomous Regions that has sometimes led to violence. Unauthorised public gatherings may be dispersed by force. New Zealanders in China are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations and comply with any instructions and restrictions issued by the local authorities.

Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region
There have been instances of violent unrest in this region. Future incidents of violent unrest are possible and security checks, curfews and restrictions on movement may be imposed or adjusted with little warning. Carry photo identification at all times.

Tibet Autonomous Region
Travel to the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) by foreigners requires a permit and participation in an organised tour. Entry conditions for foreigners are subject to change by the local authorities at short notice. Even if they already have been granted a travel permit, New Zealanders intending to travel to the TAR should check with their travel agent for updates before departure.

General travel advice
Visa restrictions are strictly enforced in China. If you require a full visa you must obtain this prior to travel. Transit visas (issued on arrival) are available for some short visits, however, strict conditions apply, including the need to remain within a specified area and to provide evidence of onward travel to a third destination within a specified time limit. Visa and other entry and exit conditions can change at short notice, New Zealanders should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of China for up-to-date information.

Foreign nationals must register their place of residence with the Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival in China or face fines and/or detention. Registering with a hotel will often fulfil this requirement; if unsure, advice should be sought from the Chinese authorities.  New Zealanders in China are also advised to carry their passport at all times. Police undertake random checks and failure to provide identification may result in fines and/or detention.

If you're involved in a civil or commercial dispute, or a criminal matter or investigation, you may not be allowed to leave China until the matter is resolved.

New Zealanders are urged to take note of China’s strict, and stringently enforced, laws against the possession, use or sale of illegal substances.

New Zealanders travelling or living in China should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in China are encouraged to register their details [5] with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s SafeTravel website.

Travel tips

• For current health alerts [6]