Customs and entry rules

Personal effects

Generally: clothing, personal electronics, prescription medication, books and souvenirs are fine.

Currency

You can bring up to USD $5,000 equivalent in cash without declaring. Above that, declare on the customs form. Outbound: ¥20,000 limit for non-residents.

Tobacco and alcohol

Personal allowance: 400 cigarettes (or 100 cigars or 500g loose tobacco), 1.5L of alcohol over 12% ABV. Above this, declare and pay duty.

What you cannot bring in

• Drugs (recreational or unprescribed prescription opioids, stimulants).
• Unregistered firearms or weapons.
• Counterfeit currency.
• Plant material that hasn't been cleared (no fresh fruit, no live plants from non-approved sources).
• Animal products without proper certification (no ivory).
• Some prescription medications — check your meds. ADHD stimulants (Ritalin, Adderall) are tightly controlled.
• Materials judged 'detrimental to political, economic, cultural and moral interests of China' — vague but in practice means: don't bring anti-PRC literature or politically sensitive materials.
• Pornography (the customs definition is broad).

What you cannot bring out

• Antiques pre-1949 require export permits. The vast majority of museum-shop replica items are fine.
• Endangered species and parts (CITES).
• Above the allowed currency thresholds.

Health declaration

A customs and health-declaration form is filled in on arrival, often digital via WeChat mini-programme or QR scan at the airport. Have your hotel address and flight details ready.

Departure card

The departure card was largely phased out for digital immigration. Most foreign travellers now leave with just a passport scan.