Traveling to China

Shenzhen, a vibrant and modern city in the Guangdong Province, has experienced a remarkable transformation since its designation as the first Special Economic Zone in 1980. With a population of 17.5 million, Shenzhen is now the third most populous city by urban population in China, attracting businesses, investors, and migrants from around the world. The city's strategic location, bordering Hong Kong to the south and the Pearl River Delta to the north, has contributed to its rapid growth and development.

Shenzhen is a global hub for technology, international trade, and finance, home to the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, numerous Fortune Global 500 headquarters, and innovative tech giants such as Huawei, Tencent, and DJI. The city's entrepreneurial spirit and competitive culture have earned it the nickname "China's Silicon Valley." Visitors to Shenzhen can explore its stunning modern architecture, beautiful parks and mountains, vibrant cultural arts scene, and diverse culinary offerings. The city also boasts fascinating historical sites dating back to the 12th century, including impressive forts, temples, and places related to Hakka culture. With its well-planned infrastructure, eco-friendly public transport, and disabled-friendly facilities, Shenzhen offers a unique and accessible experience for all visitors.

15-Day Visa-Free Travel for EU and Malaysia Citizens

Visa-free travel for citizens of Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland is available until December 31, 2025.

144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Scheme

This policy permits passengers from 54 countries or regions to transit through specific areas in China for up to 144 hours (6 days) without a visa. To qualify, book an interline ticket with a confirmed departure date and seat, leaving for a third country or region within 144 hours of your arrival in mainland China.

The eligible transit route follows this pattern:
A (Country/Region) → B (Participating Region in mainland China) → C (Third Country/Region)
Note: C cannot be the same as A.

It is essential to plan your travel itinerary carefully, considering the countries or regions you will visit immediately before and after your stay in mainland China. Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan can be included as either your entry or exit points. The 144-hour period begins at 00:00 hours on the day following your entry into China. For example, if you arrive in China at 8:00 am on July 6, 2024, the visa-free period starts at 00:00 hours on July 7, 2024, and you must depart by 23:59 hours on July 12, 2024.

Participating regions in mainland China include Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangdong, Hebei, Jiangsu, Kunming, Liaoning, Qingdao, Shanghai, Tianjin, Wuhan, Xi’an, Xiamen, and Zhejiang.

Sample Valid Routes:
1. US: New York/Chicago/Los Angeles > Seoul > Shenzhen > Taipei
2. Australia: Sydney > Shenzhen > Tokyo
3. UK: London > Hong Kong > Shenzhen > Kuala Lumpur

Please note that international flights into and out of China should be non-stop within mainland China. For instance, a route like UK – Guangzhou – Shanghai - Hong Kong would not qualify. Once you enter China, you should directly depart to a third country or region without stopping at another city within mainland China.

For route qualification queries, it's advisable to check with your airline or the Chinese embassy or consulate before planning your trip. For more details, please refer to the 'China 144 Hour Transit Visa Free' subsection at the bottom of this page.

Visas (Customary)

For most travelers, a visa must be obtained from a Chinese embassy or consulate prior to arrival in mainland China. We recommend initiating the visa application process at least one month in advance. Travel agencies can provide assistance with applications, and expedited services are available if needed.

For the most current visa requirements, please visit the website of the Chinese embassy or the Visa Application Service Center in your home country.

To enter mainland China, a passport with a minimum of six months validity remaining is required, along with a visa. These visas are issued by Chinese embassies, consulates, or affiliated Visa Application Centers.

Please note that while visitors to Hong Kong and Macau typically do not require visas, a visa will be necessary for travel onwards to mainland China.

Tourist visas permit single or multiple entries for durations ranging from 30 days to 6 months. Citizens of certain countries, such as the US and UK, may be eligible for 10-year multiple entry visas if they have previously visited China.

Visa applications generally necessitate proof of return travel, hotel reservations, and a comprehensive trip itinerary.

Please note that there are exceptions to these requirements, such as the 144-hour visa-free transit for travelers continuing onwards to a third country, and citizens of EU countries and Malaysia being able to visit China for 15 days without needing a visa. However, these exceptions may not apply to all travelers, so it’s important to verify your specific requirements.

Shenzhen Visa on Arrival (VOA)

The Shenzhen Visa on Arrival (VOA) is designed for travelers entering Shenzhen, China, primarily from Hong Kong or Macau. This visa allows for a 5-day stay within the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and is particularly convenient for tourists and business travelers.

5-Day Shenzhen Special Economic Zone Tourist Visa

• This visa is specifically for individuals visiting Shenzhen only.
• It is a single-entry visa, meaning it cannot be extended or used for re-entry once you leave.

General Eligibility
- Nationality: Travelers from countries that have diplomatic relations with China can apply.
- Entry Point: Must enter through designated ports such as Shenzhen Bao'an Airport, Luohu Port, Shekou Port, Huanggang Port, or Fuyong Port.

Document Requirements
• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity and one blank page.
• Completion of the Special Economic Zone Visa Application Form upon arrival.
• Sufficient cash (RMB) to pay the visa fee, as credit cards may not be accepted.

Visa Fees
The fee varies by nationality:
• Approximately CNY 168 (about USD 25) for most countries.
• Higher fees apply for UK citizens (CNY 314) and US citizens (CNY 956).

Steps to Obtain the Visa
1. Arrival: Upon reaching a designated port, locate the immigration area.
2. Form Submission: Fill out the Special Economic Zone Visa Application Form.
3. Documentation: Present your passport and completed form to the immigration officer.
4. Payment: Pay the visa fee in cash.
5. Approval Process: Answer any questions from the immigration authority and have your photo taken on-site.
6. Collect Visa: If approved, collect your passport along with the newly issued visa.

Important Notes
• The visa is valid starting from 00:00 on the day following your arrival, allowing you to stay until 23:59 five days later.
• This visa does not permit travel outside of Shenzhen; any further travel within mainland China requires a different visa.

Restrictions
• The VOA cannot be extended or used for multiple entries.
• Travelers who have recently visited politically sensitive countries may face denial of the VOA application.
• Citizens from certain countries (e.g., Afghanistan, Iran) are ineligible for this visa.

The Shenzhen Visa on Arrival provides a straightforward option for travelers wishing to explore Shenzhen without prior visa arrangements. It is essential to adhere to the specific entry requirements and understand the limitations of this visa type to ensure a smooth travel experience.

For further details on visas, please refer to the Visa section of the official Shenzhen Municipal Government website.
https://www.sz.gov.cn/en_szgov/services/personal/visas/

Arriving by Air

Visitors can arrive via Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX), located approximately 32 km northwest of the city center. The airport is one of the busiest in the world, offering flights to over 50 international destinations. Upon arrival, travelers can reach downtown Shenzhen using Metro Line 11, which provides an express service to Futian Station in just 25 minutes for ¥7. Alternatively, Metro Line 1 is accessible via a shuttle bus to Hourui Station, taking approximately 65 minutes to reach Luohu Station for ¥8. For those preferring road transport, taxis are available at designated areas, with fares to Futian and Luohu districts costing approximately ¥100 and ¥150, respectively, including tolls.

Arriving by Train

Shenzhen is a major hub in China's high-speed rail (HSR) network, offering efficient connections to various parts of the country. The city is served by several key HSR stations, including Shenzhen North, Futian, and Pingshan. Futian Station, located in the central business district, is a primary interchange for HSR services from Hong Kong, with travel times as short as 14 minutes to Futian from West Kowloon Station. Shenzhen North Station is a significant hub with connections to Guangzhou and other major cities. Travelers from Hong Kong can take the HSR from West Kowloon Station, which offers frequent services to multiple destinations in Shenzhen.
It is advisable to purchase tickets early to secure your preferred travel dates. Tickets can be conveniently purchased online through reputable vendors such as China Highlights, Train Spread, and Klook.

Arriving by Sea

For those arriving via Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), ferry services provide a convenient option to reach Shenzhen. The Skypier at HKG offers direct ferries to Shekou Port and Fuyong Port, bypassing Hong Kong immigration and customs. Shekou Port is well-connected to Shenzhen’s metro system, facilitating easy access to the city. This option is particularly advantageous for avoiding the land border crossings, offering a seamless transition into mainland China.

Transportation from Hong Kong

Visitors landing at HKG can opt for high-speed rail or ferry services to Shenzhen. The high-speed rail from West Kowloon Station to Shenzhen is the fastest and most efficient mode, with multiple daily services to key stations like Futian and Shenzhen North. Alternatively, ferry services from HKG’s Skypier to Shekou and Fuyong Ports provide a scenic and hassle-free journey into Shenzhen, ideal for those looking to avoid the complexities of land border crossings.

Getting Around

Taxis & Rideshare

Taxis are an affordable and plentiful transportation option in Shenzhen. To ensure a smooth experience, print out your hotel's taxi card (in Mandarin) beforehand or have your destination written in Mandarin to show the driver. When arriving at the airport, only use the official taxi ranks and refuse unsolicited offers from drivers approaching you, as these are often unreliable and expensive. During your stay, your hotel can also arrange taxis for you.

Shenzhen's taxi fleet is predominantly electric, with blue taxis representing the eco-friendly options. The initial fare is ¥10 for the first 2 km, with an additional ¥0.60 for every subsequent 250 meters. While tipping is not customary, rounding up to the nearest yuan is appreciated. Licensed taxis are generally safe and well-regulated, but if you encounter any issues, note the driver's license number and report it using the contact details on your receipt.

Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Didi Chuxing can be a convenient choice for foreign visitors. Here's a concise guide to help you navigate to the designated pick-up points at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX).

Before your trip:
• Install the Didi app designed for mainland China and Hong Kong from the appropriate app store.
• Set up your account in advance, including linking a valid international payment method (credit card, debit card, or mobile wallet like WeChat Pay or Alipay).
• Consider purchasing a Chinese SIM card upon arrival or inquiring with your mobile carrier about international roaming options, as account creation requires a valid phone number for verification.

At the airport:
• Look for prominent orange or white signage and arrows directing you to the "E-hailing" area when exiting the arrivals area.
• For ride-hailing services, head to Gate 15 of the terminal. This is the designated area for online car-hailing pickups
• In case Gate 15 is crowded or inaccessible for any reason, you can also check Gate 13, which serves both taxis and online ride-hailing services as an alternative pick-up point

Tips for a smoother experience:
• Have your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver, as there may be a language barrier.
• Consider using Didi's airport pick-up feature, which allows you to input your flight number and date for more personalized service.
• Premium Didi services offer nicer cars, amenities, and drivers more accustomed to serving international passengers.
• Be prepared for drivers to call with questions in Mandarin. In such instances, consider using translation apps or seeking assistance from hotel staff or local colleagues.

Language Assistance

Translation apps from Apple, DeepL, Google, Microsoft, and Yandex, available in both Apple and Android app stores, are excellent tools for aiding verbal communication and can do text translation via camera. It is highly recommended to download both input and output language packs for offline use prior to your journey. For added reliability, consider downloading multiple translation applications. Additionally, many travel e-books include sections on common phrases and words, and the Microsoft Translator app offers a free phrasebook feature which is accessible via Settings (gear icon) and selecting "Phrasebook".

Metro

The Shenzhen Metro is the most convenient and efficient way to navigate the city. Known for its reliability, cleanliness, and safety, the metro system is both inexpensive and easy to use, with English signage and announcements throughout. As of 2024, the metro comprises 10 lines and 252 stations, making it one of the largest and busiest in the world. Trains operate from approximately 6:00 AM to midnight, with extended hours during special events. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines within stations, which accept only 5 and 10 yuan notes. The fare is distance-based, ranging from ¥2 to ¥14. Children under 120 cm or under 6 years ride for free when accompanied by an adult. For frequent travel, consider using the Shenzhen Tong card for convenience.

Bus

Shenzhen boasts a fully electric bus fleet, enhancing air quality and providing a comfortable travel experience. The city offers three types of buses: orange short-route buses, green long-route buses, and express buses. Fares start at ¥1 for short routes and ¥2 for longer routes, with express buses costing more. All buses are air-conditioned, and stops are announced in both Mandarin and English. Payment can be made using the Shenzhen Tong card. While mini-buses have been phased out within the Special Economic Zone, they still operate outside of it.

Bicycle

Cycling in Shenzhen is a pleasant way to explore the city, thanks to its relatively flat terrain and dedicated bike paths. The Shenzhen Bay bike path offers scenic views and connects to the Guangzhou Greenway. Although obtaining a bike rental card can be a bit cumbersome, bike-sharing apps provide a convenient alternative. Note that electric bicycles and motorcycles are banned within the Special Economic Zone. For those planning to travel to neighboring cities, be aware of restrictions at border crossings, such as the Hong Kong-Shenzhen border, where cycling is not permitted.

Shenzhen Tong Card

The Shenzhen Tong card is a convenient, contactless smart card designed to simplify public transportation in Shenzhen. Similar to the Octopus card in Hong Kong or the Oyster card in London, the Shenzhen Tong card can be used on the city's metro system, buses, and even for purchases at participating convenience stores.
To use the card, simply tap it on the turnstile reader when entering and exiting metro stations. The card is available for purchase at designated stands and machines within metro stations, including a specific stand at Exit A of Luohu Station. The initial cost of the card is 50 yuan.

Money

Notify your bank ahead of time that you'll be traveling to China, and set up a travel notification on your credit cards. Many credit unions and major banks like Wells Fargo allow customers to order Chinese yuan (RMB) for delivery within 2-7 business days. You may wish to order at least some cash in advance, as exchange rates are typically better than at airport kiosks. Upon arrival in China, you can also withdraw yuan directly from ATMs using your debit card, at current market exchange rates. Just ensure you have an activated PIN and that your bank allows foreign ATM withdrawals. Currency converter apps like XE provide real-time rates as well. Direct use of foreign credit cards may be limited to international hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and airports.

While carrying some cash is wise for initial expenses, China is rapidly becoming a cashless society dominated by mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay. These "super-apps" go far beyond just payments, integrating features like ride-hailing, food delivery, and e-commerce through embedded "mini-apps." Paying with a QR code has become ubiquitous, used by everyone from street vendors to major retailers. Though cash is usually accepted, using the immensely popular WeChat or Alipay can greatly enhance convenience. These apps offer English options but some initial familiarity is recommended given their dizzying array of features.

Digital Wallets: WeChat Pay & Alipay

For visitors new to China's "super-apps," here are the steps to link your foreign credit or debit card to WeChat Pay and Alipay to make payments using your mobile phone. Follow these instructions after installing the app and creating an account.

WeChat Pay:
1. Open the WeChat app and navigate to the "Wallet" section (Me | Services | Wallet).
2. Select "Bank Cards" and then "Add a Bank Card."
3. Enter your card number and select the card type (Visa, or use drop-down menu).
4. Input the card's 'Validity' (expiration date) and CVV code.
5. Agree to the terms and conditions. Your card is now linked.
6. You can now make payments at millions of merchants by scanning QR codes.

Alipay:
1. Open the Alipay app and go to "Account" then "Bank Cards."
2. Tap the blue "+" symbol to add a card.
3. On the "Add Bank Card" screen, you can add Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, or UnionPay.
4. Enter your card number; additional fields will appear as you proceed.
5. Input the card's expiration date and CVV2 number (3 digits; usually found on the back of the card).
6. Click "Agree to Terms and Add."
7. You can now make payments at millions of merchants by scanning QR codes.

Important Notes:
When making payments using WeChat Pay or Alipay, the funds are pulled directly from your linked foreign credit card without the need to load funds separately to the digital wallet. However, there are some limitations, as listed below.
• Transaction Limits: WeChat Pay has a maximum single transaction limit of RMB 6,000, a monthly limit of RMB 50,000, and an annual limit of RMB 60,000. Alipay has a maximum single transaction limit of RMB 3,000, with the same monthly and annual limits as WeChat Pay.
• Identity Verification: For Alipay, if your cumulative payment amount reaches RMB 15,000, you will be prompted to complete identity verification before proceeding with further payments.
• Fees: Both WeChat Pay and Alipay waive fees for transactions below RMB 200. For transactions above this amount, a 3% fee is applied.
Remember to check if your bank permits international mobile payments, double-check exchange rates, and start with small amounts until you are comfortable with the system. The convenience of going cashless and mobile in China is unparalleled. Have your foreign cards ready to sync up and enjoy a seamless payment experience!

Troubleshooting Electronic Wallet Setup

If you encounter difficulties setting up your WeChat Pay or Alipay electronic wallet while still in your home country, consider the following:

1. Ensure you have completed the identity verification process, which requires uploading a photo of your passport and a facial recognition scan. If you did not encounter these steps, you may need to backtrack and try again.

2. If you experience issues linking your credit card to the electronic wallet, try using a different credit card or switching between WeChat Pay and Alipay. Remember, you only need one functional electronic wallet, as either will be accepted by most vendors in China.

3. Setting up electronic wallets from overseas can sometimes be problematic. If you continue to face challenges, you may need to seek assistance upon arrival in China. WeChat Pay or Alipay might require manual verification, or other issues could have hindered the process.

4. As an alternative, if you are unable to link a credit card, consider asking a friend or colleague in China to transfer money to your electronic wallet. This will allow you to use the wallet's balance for payments without the need for a linked credit card.

Rest assured that help will be available during the conference if you continue to experience difficulties with your electronic wallet setup.

Accessing Online Services in China

Many Western websites and online services are restricted or blocked. To ensure seamless access, we strongly recommend securing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) before your arrival.

VPN Setup:
• If you are affiliated with a university or business, check that their VPN service is compatible with China and already installed on your devices (smartphones, laptops, tablets).
• Alternatively, you may consider subscribing to a reputable private VPN service based in Europe. We can provide recommended vendors upon request.
• Some VPN providers offer browser extensions for Firefox or Chrome, which can be a lightweight and efficient option for laptop users.

Accessing Specific Services:
• Apple Maps and Skype are generally accessible without a VPN.
• Google, Dropbox, Zoom, and social media require a VPN.
• To avoid VPN dependence, consider using European or non-Western alternatives such as Yandex (search engine, email, online storage), and Zoho (online office suite).

Internet Access:
• Free Wi-Fi is widely available at restaurants, cafes, and hotels across China.
• However, you may need to provide a mobile phone number to obtain an access code in some locations.

We encourage you to set up your preferred VPN solution before your trip to China, ensuring uninterrupted access to the online services and resources you require during the conference.

Mobile Phones

China operates on the GSM network so most cell phones brought overseas will work with a local SIM card. You can purchase a SIM card at the airport or at local shops. China Unicom, China Telecom, and China Mobile are the main network providers.

Check with your phone carrier regarding overseas roaming coverage in China; it may be more convenient than trying to switch SIM cards in Shenzhen. Some carriers, such as T-mobile, provide unlimited international texting.

Electrical Appliances

The electrical system in China operates at 220 volts AC and 50 Hz. The standard socket/plug used in China is also common in Australia and New Zealand, so a plug adapter or converter is needed. Most hotels ranking above 3 stars in China provide electrical outlets of both 110V and 220V in the bathrooms, though in guest rooms usually only 220V sockets are available.

Opening Hours

Most shops and attractions are open daily from 8 or 9am until the evening, anywhere between 6 to 10pm. Many close for a few hours in the afternoon. Check opening hours in advance, as these can vary. Nearly all sights, stores and restaurants are closed on Mondays.

Weather

Shenzhen typically experiences hot and humid summer conditions with temperatures ranging from 27-31°C (81-88°F). Humidity levels are notably high, usually exceeding 70%, which can make the weather feel quite muggy. There's a moderate chance of afternoon thunderstorms or rain showers, characteristic of the early monsoon season, so carrying an umbrella is recommended. UV exposure tends to be intense during this period, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM, making sun protection essential. Shenzhen generally enjoys good air quality due to its coastal location, though the combination of heat and humidity can feel oppressive at times. Visitors should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection (including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses), and stay well-hydrated. For the most current weather updates closer to the event, please consult weather services such as Meteoblue or Foreca.

Recommended Travel Resources

- Lonely Planet: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/guangdong/shenzhen

- Wikivoyage: https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Shenzhen

- Wikitravel: https://wikitravel.org/en/Shenzhen

-Tripadvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g297415-Shenzhen_Guangdong-Vacations.html

China 144 Hour Transit Visa Free | Visa on Arrival (VOA)

- VisaGuide (144 hr): https://visaguide.world/asia/china-visa/transit-visa/144-hour-visa-free/

- China Discovery (144 hr): https://www.chinadiscovery.com/chinese-visa/144-hour-visa-free.html

- China Discovery (VOA): https://www.chinadiscovery.com/shenzhen-tours/shenzhen-visa-on-arrival.html

Taxi Reservation Services

Welcome Pickups: https://www.welcomepickups.com/shenzhen/airport-taxi/

Taxi2Airport: https://www.taxi2airport.com/en/airport-transfers/shenzhen-airport-taxi

Klook: https://www.klook.com/en-SG/airport-transfers/service/szx-shenzhen-baoan-international-airport/

CabExpresso: https://www.cabexpresso.com/shenzhen/shenzhen-airport-taxi

HolidayTaxis: https://www.holidaytaxis.com/en/transfers/china/shenzhen/