Top Tips for Your China Business Trip - JAN 2021

Traveling to China today, just like anywhere else isn't easy. This practical guide contains information that was accumulated by PTL Group's team and colleagues in China, in order to introduce the traveling process to you. 

Who can travel to China?

Foreign nationals who hold a Chinese Residence Permit. Permits that have expired after March 28th 2020 can be renewed in the Chinese embassy or consulate where the foreign national is based. 

Obtaining a PU letter

The PU is a formal invitation letter, that is approved by the Chinese authorities. Once approved, the invitee can apply for an M/Z visa (business & work visa respectively) in the local Chinese embassy or consulate. The process takes about 4-6 weeks.

Before the trip – the Gatekeepers

All travelers must take two tests 48 hours prior to departure, in a facility that is recognized by the Chinese authorities. The results, together with the traveling information, have to be submitted (physically or emailed) to the first gatekeeper: the local Chinese embassy or consulate. The embassy will verify the tests and send a letter of approval.

The second gatekeeper is a personal statement of the health status, aka Health Deceleration Certificate (HDC). This form is filled out online within 24 hours prior to arrival in China.

Landing in China

On arrival, travelers go through the third gatekeeper: the Chinese Customs, where their temperature is re-checked. Once entry procedures and registration are completed, travelers get a QR code, that will indicate their health status during the entire stay in China.

A 14-day quarantine is mandatory when entering China. The hotel will be assigned according to availability. Most hotels offer 3 Chinese-style meals per day. Temperature testing during the stay is conducted daily.

After completing the quarantine and getting tested negative – you will be free to go. Safe travels!

TOP TRAVEL TIPS

1. Additional visa procedures

These are to be taken based on your country of origin (remember that a residence permit is a prerequisite):

• Entry into China is banned for foreign nationals of certain countries (e.g., UK).

• Foreign nationals from certain countries are free of additional visa procedures. Here is a partial list of the eligible nationals: Austria, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, etc.

• Foreign nationals from other countries will have to obtain a PU letter.

2. The PU application

When applying for the PU, you should provide a valid reason to be granted a visa. Therefore, it is recommended to provide as many supporting documents as possible, in order to prove the application's legitimacy.

3. Keep your records

Keep ALL your traveling information and confirmation letters available and accessible either by phone or printed. You will need to present them throughout your journey.

4. Prior to the trip checklist:

• The personal HDC is valid for 24 hours only and can be filled only after checking-in on the flight.

• Beijing has its own QR health code. If you go there, make sure you have it.

• Ensure to download all the necessary Chinese apps (WeChat, Alipay, China’s Custom).

• It's advisable to have a local phone number in China. It's possible to get a SIM card upon landing. 

5. Quarantine arrangements:

• The payment for the hotel is usually made digitally. Many hotels in China don’t respect international credit cards, some accept cash.

• Travelers to Shanghai with a permanent residence permit might be allowed to spend 7 or 11 days at home, based on the approval of the compound management company.

• Calculate your timetable - some cities might require additional 7-day quarantine.

• Flights to Beijing are quite rare, so if this is your desirable destination, you might need to fly through another city first.

6. Communities throughout China

Familiarize yourself with the several “quarantine support groups” that are active on WeChat. In addition, China Business Circles Community is available both on WhatsApp and WeChat. Contact us if you wish to join.

7. Traveling with children

For those who travel with children – please know that all children above the age of 3 are required to get tested. 

8. Support is available

Although the process might sound like a hustle, after landing in China you will realize the business world in China is still vibrant and hectic, and the journey does worth the efforts. 

Remember that regulations change often, hence it is important to keep up-to-date with the latest instructions. PTL Group helps international companies in the management of the operation in China, even during such complicated times. For any China business support feel free to contact us. 

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