You need a visa for People's Republic of China if you have a British passport

These visas exist for People's Republic of China, but they cannot be applied for online with British nationality. Tell us about your trip and we will come back with the options and a price.

Travelling to People's Republic of China

Visa required

Frequently asked questions

Do British citizens need a visa for People's Republic of China?

Yes. British citizens need a visa for People's Republic of China. It is not available online — the application goes through an embassy or consulate.

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What People's Republic of China may ask for

Not every traveller is asked for all of these. A valid passport is checked every time; the rest is a spot check at the border, and some items belong to a visa application rather than the crossing itself.

Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
Photo 48x33mm with white background
Confirmed round-trip flight itinerary
Hotel reservations for entire stay
Proof of sufficient funds for travel
Completed visa application form

Entry requirements for British travellers

These rules apply specifically to British passport holders entering People's Republic of China as tourists. Each one links to the official source where available.

Required
Mandatory proof of accommodation
Travelers must have proof of accommodation during their stay in China.
The People's Republic of China Last checked 2026-07-27
Required
Mandatory proof of return or onward ticket from China
Travelers require proof of a ticket showing their entrance and exit from China.
- This requirement doesn’t apply to the following travelers: -Nationals of China; -Foreign nationals residing in China.
The People's Republic of China Last checked 2026-07-27
Required
Travelers require a passport valid for the duration of stay in China
Travelers need a valid passport to enter China. The traveler's passport must remain valid throughout the traveler's stay in China.
China Visa Application Service Center Last checked 2026-07-27
Recommended
Recommended vaccinations for China
Travelers should consider: -Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B vaccines; -Typhoid vaccine for visits to smaller cities or rural areas; -Routine vaccines including Measles; -Japanese Encephalitis vaccine for extended stays or rural activities (not recommended for short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese Encephalitis season). Additional vaccine recommendations may apply. Consult your healthcare provider and check the source for details.
CDC - China Last checked 2026-07-27
Not required
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required for China
Travelers don’t need proof of COVID-19 vaccination before traveling to mainland China.
Last checked 2026-07-27
Not required
Proof of pre-departure COVID-19 test is not required
Travelers don’t need a COVID-19 test before traveling to China.
Last checked 2026-07-27
Not required
Transit visa is not required
Travelers do not need a visa to transit through China.
Last checked 2026-07-27