05 — Landing
Customs & entry in China
海关
Arrival formalities are quick, but a few rules catch first-timers out — especially around food, medicine and drones.
Quick checklist
- 01Do not pack fresh fruit, meat or dairy products — they will be confiscated at customs.
- 02Prescription medicine: bring the original packaging plus a doctor's note or prescription in English, personal-use quantities only.
- 03Use the red channel if you have anything to declare; otherwise walk the green channel.
- 04Fingerprints and a photo are taken at immigration — standard for all foreign visitors.
What immigration looks like
Expect a fingerprint scan, a photo, and a few questions about your stay. Have your first hotel's name and address handy (a screenshot in Chinese helps). The whole process usually takes under 30 minutes outside peak arrival banks.
What gets confiscated
Fresh produce, meat and dairy top the list. Prescription medication is fine in personal quantities with documentation, but some common medicines elsewhere are controlled in China — check stimulant ADHD medication and strong painkillers with the embassy before packing them.
Drones deserve special caution: registration is required for most flights, many scenic areas ban them outright, and border officers may hold undeclared drones. Casual travelers should leave them home.
Cash declaration
Carrying more than US$5,000 (or equivalent) in cash requires a customs declaration. Use the red channel and fill the form — undeclared cash over the limit can be seized.
Common pitfalls
- Drones: most scenic areas are no-fly zones, and foreign visitors carrying drones may have them held at the border. Unless you've registered in advance, leave it at home.
- Power banks must go in carry-on (never checked luggage) and stay under 100Wh — oversized ones are confiscated at security, no exceptions.
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