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SafeTravel
SafeTravel is the official source of travel advice for New Zealanders, with advisories for specific destinations.
SafeTravel registration(external link) is recommended if you are staying in China or Mongolia for several months or more.
If you are registered, SafeTravel can contact you if there is a major incident in the region you are travelling in, and send you updates about emergencies, natural disasters or terrorist attacks.
Your details will remain confidential, but the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade will be able to contact you in case of emergency.
Visas for visitors to China
New Zealand passport holders can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism, business, visiting family, or transit purposes. This visa-free arrangement is a trial that is currently in place until 31 December 2026.
Entry to China for work, study, or journalism purposes is not covered under this policy.
For the latest information on China's entry and visa requirements for New Zealand citizens, please visit the following website: Visa – Embassy of the People's Republic of China to New Zealand(external link)
Living and travelling in China
Cash and credit cards
The currency of China is Renminbi (RMB).
China has a highly developed digital payment system, and many businesses prefer electronic payments over cash or international credit cards. Travellers are encouraged to download and set up the WeChat Pay and Alipay apps before travelling, as these are widely used for everyday purchases.
Medical insurance
It is important for individuals to make sure that they have arranged their own medical insurance or have sufficient funds available in case medical care is needed. We strongly recommend that all travellers to China have some form of internationally recognised medical insurance.
Emergency contact numbers
- Fire: 119
- Ambulance and rescue: 120
- Police: 110
Local guides for foreigners
New Zealand citizens travelling and living in China are recommended to read through local governments’ guides for foreigners.
- Beijing Municipal Government digital portal – Travelling in Beijing(external link)
- Shanghai Municipal Government digital portal – International Services Shanghai(external link)
- Guangzhou Minicipal Government visitor portal – Guangzhou International(external link)
Clubs and societies for New Zealanders
Beijing
The New Zealand Embassy in Beijing hosts an annual Kiwi Community BBQ. If you would like to be added to the invite list for this event, please contact the Embassy.(external link)
New Zealanders in Beijing may also be interested in joining the ‘Kiwis in Beijing’ WeChat group, or attending the abovementioned events run by Kea New Zealand (the Kiwi Expat Association).
Shanghai
Kiwi Drinks are managed by Kiwi Expats Association (KEA) and New Zealand Business Roundtable in China (NZBRiC). Please follow the account "Kea NZ" on WeChat app or visit Kea New Zealand to find out more.
Guangzhou
The New Zealand Consulate in Guangzhou will occasionally organise events for New Zealanders and Alumni in South China. If you would like to be added to the invite list for these events, please contact the Consulate.
Getting married in China
- a valid passport
- proof they are free to marry, such as a Certificate of No Impediment (CONI)
- a consular letter issued by the New Zealand Embassy or Consulate
- evidence of any previous divorce, dissolution of marriage, or widowhood, if applicable.