China Travel Advisory 2025: Key Safety Tips for US Travelers and Expanded Visa Free Entry Requirements

Listeners interested in traveling to China should be aware that the U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for mainland China to Level 2, meaning travelers are advised to exercise increased caution. This heightened advisory stems from concerns about the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, which can include unexpected exit bans that prevent foreigners—including U.S. citizens—from leaving China. These measures have impacted businesspeople, academics, journalists, and even relatives of Chinese citizens involved in legal disputes. There have been instances where foreigners were interrogated, detained, or expelled for alleged violations of national security laws. In Hong Kong and Macau, similar caution is recommended due to the risk of arbitrary application of local regulations. Additionally, travelers should be aware that providing emergency consular services in Macau may be limited.

Canadian authorities echo similar cautions, urging a high degree of vigilance and warning that legal processes may not align with the standards many are accustomed to. Chinese authorities strictly control internet access, blocking many international websites and social media platforms. Using a VPN is common, but travelers should follow local regulations and avoid discussing politically sensitive topics.

With respect to current entry requirements, China has expanded its visa-free policy in 2025. Citizens of Italy, Australia, Spain, Germany, France, New Zealand, Belgium, the UAE, and several others can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days until December 31, 2025. Visitors from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay enjoy the same benefit from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026. Travelers from the U.S., U.K., Canada, and 51 other countries can benefit from a 10-day visa-free transit policy, allowing visits to major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and beyond.

Travelers should take standard safety precautions: use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, keep valuables secure in crowded areas, be cautious with street food, and stay informed about local weather and potential natural disasters, especially in regions prone to earthquakes or floods. The public transportation system in China is highly rated for safety, but travelers should always be alert to pickpockets during busy periods.

Certain regions, such as Tibet and Xinjiang, carry unique risks due to political sensitivities and may be subject to sudden changes in local regulations. Always consult travel advisories before planning travel to these areas.

China remains generally safe for tourists and solo travelers, but increased caution and respect for local laws are advised. Having a local guide or translator can make the experience smoother and help navigate any language or regulatory challenges.

On a related note, escalating trade and diplomatic tensions between China and the United States have also resulted in travel advisories in the opposite direction. Chinese authorities are now urging their citizens to carefully assess the risks of traveling to or studying in the United States, citing concerns about domestic security and new legislation affecting Chinese students and tourists. This backdrop of mutual advisories underscores the importance of staying up to date with official guidance before planning international travel between the two countries.