Do You Need To Carry Passport In China?

In China, it is legally required for foreigners to carry their passports at all times. This regulation is enforced to facilitate identity verification by local authorities, which can occur at various checkpoints including hotels, train stations, and random police checks, especially in areas with heightened security measures or those less frequented by international tourists.

The police can also raid nightclubs and bars. If you’re in a bar that’s raided, you will be subject to on-the-spot testing and immigration checks. This may involve being kept at the location, or another location, for several hours, giving hair and urine samples, and visa checks. Testing positive for drugs, or being found in breach of your visa conditions, can lead to heavy fines, detention and deportation.

Failing to produce your passport upon request by Chinese authorities can lead to several complications, including fines and detention. If you are unable to present your passport upon request, the Chinese authorities have the right to detain you until they can verify who you are and what your status in the country is. This process can be lengthy and stressful, significantly disrupting your travel plans. A photocopy will not suffice.

Passports are necessary for more than just identity checks; they are also required for daily activities such as checking into hotels, purchasing train tickets, and even for mobile phone registration or financial transactions. The requirement underscores the importance of having this document accessible throughout your stay.