All foreign nationals need a valid visa to enter the People’s Republic of China; visas can be obtained from Chinese Embassies and Consulates worldwide. Single entry visas must be used within three months of issue and are usually valid for 30 days. The duration can be longer in the off-season; summer time visas, therefore, are usually for 30 days. Business visas are valid for three months and can be issued for multiple entries. For business, student and work visas, you require an invitation. Visa extensions are granted by the Foreign Affairs section of the Public Security Bureau;  please note that after the first extension, the successive ones are progressively more and more difficult to obtain.

Visa Alert! Don’t overstay your visa for even a day, as the fine is a whopping Rinminbi 500 per day, never mind the hassle.