How to Travel to China from India 2026
Important Preliminary Note for 2026 Travel
The information below is based on the latest 2024/2025 regulations. Rules for visas, flights, and digital requirements are highly likely to evolve by 2026. This guide provides a solid foundation, but you must reconfirm all details closer to your travel date.
Step 1: Secure Your Travel Documents (Start 3-4 Months in Advance)
- Passport
· Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from China.
· Blank Pages: Ensure you have at least two completely blank visa pages (not the “Amendments” page).
- Chinese Visa (The Most Crucial Step)
Indian citizens need a visa to enter mainland China. Hong Kong has separate entry rules.
· Type of Visa: Apply for an L-Tourist Visa for leisure travel.
· Where to Apply: You must apply in person at a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC). They have centers in:
· New Delhi
· Mumbai
· Kolkata
· Chennai
· Application Process (2024/25 procedure, likely similar in 2026):
- Complete the Online Form: Fill out the visa application form on the CVASC website.
- Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment online at your nearest CVASC.
- Prepare Your Documents:
· Printed & signed visa application form.
· Appointment confirmation slip.
· Original passport.
· One recent, colour passport-sized photograph (white background).
· Proof of Travel: Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
· Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings for your entire stay in China.
· Detailed Itinerary: A day-by-day plan of your trip.
· Financial Proof: Bank statements for the last 3-6 months.
· For Employed: Leave letter from your employer.
· For Self-Employed: Business registration documents and IT returns.
· Visa Fee: Varies based on nationality and processing time (single/multiple entry). Check the CVASC website for the latest fee structure.
💡 Tip for 2026: The process may become more digitized. Watch for potential e-visa introductions for tourists, though this is not guaranteed.
Step 2: Book Your Flights
Direct flights between India and China, which were reduced during the pandemic, are steadily resuming.
· Major Routes (Expected by 2026):
· Delhi (DEL) to Beijing (PEK), Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN)
· Mumbai (BOM) to Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN)
· Kolkata (CCU) to Guangzhou (CAN)
· Bangalore (BLR) to Hong Kong (HKG) – a great gateway to Southern China.
· Airlines: Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, IndiGo (for Hong Kong), and connecting carriers like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways, etc.
· Booking Tip: For the best fares, book your flights 3-4 months in advance. Use flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak.
Step 3: Understand Health and Entry Regulations
This is the area most likely to change. As of late 2024, most COVID-19 related restrictions have been lifted.
· COVID-19 (Potential for 2026): There are currently no testing or vaccination requirements. Monitor official sources (Chinese Embassy in India, IATA Travel Centre) for any new health advisories before your trip.
· Customs Regulations:
· Be aware of standard customs rules on currency declaration (limit is 20,000 RMB or equivalent in foreign currency), and prohibited items.
· China has strict drug laws. Do not carry any prescription drugs without a doctor’s note and a translated prescription.
Step 4: Prepare for Your Stay in China
- Money & Payments
· Currency: The Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB).
· Cash vs. Digital: China is a largely cashless society. Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are dominant.
· Crucially for Tourists: As of 2024, both Alipay and WeChat Pay have made it easier for foreign tourists to link their international credit cards (like Visa, MasterCard). Set this up before you go—it will make your life immensely easier.
· Still, carry some cash (RMB) for small vendors or in case of issues. You can exchange USD or INR at airports or banks.
- Internet & Communication
· The Great Firewall: Many Western websites and apps (Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube) are blocked in China.
· Solution: Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Install a reliable, paid VPN on all your devices before you leave India. Test it to ensure it works.
· SIM Card: You can buy a tourist SIM card at the airport upon arrival or rent a portable Wi-Fi device. This is essential for navigation and translation apps.
- Language
· English is not widely spoken outside of major hotels and tourist spots in big cities.
· Essential Apps:
· Translation: Pleco, Google Translate (download the Chinese language pack for offline use).
· Maps: Baidu Maps or Apple Maps (Google Maps is unreliable in China).
Step 5: Upon Arrival in China
- Immigration: Present your passport and visa. You may be asked about your itinerary.
- Customs: Fill out a customs declaration form (often available on the flight or via a kiosk).
- Currency Exchange & SIM Card: Handle these at the airport.
- Transport to City: Use the efficient metro systems, official taxis, or ride-hailing apps like DiDi (which has an English interface within Alipay).
Summary Timeline for 2026 Travel
Time Before Travel Action
4-6 Months Check passport validity & blank pages. Start researching flights.
3-4 Months Apply for your Chinese Visa. This is your first concrete step.
2-3 Months Book your flights and accommodations.
1 Month Install and test a VPN. Set up Alipay/TourCard. Inform your bank.
2 Weeks Buy travel insurance. Download essential apps and offline maps.
1 Week Double-check all health/entry requirements on official websites.
Day of Travel Carry your passport, visa, and a printout of your hotel/flight details.
Useful Resources for 2026 (Check these closer to your date)
· Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC): https://www.visaforchina.org/
· Embassy of China in India: http://in.china-embassy.gov.cn/
· IATA Travel Centre: (For live entry requirements)
· Alipay & WeChat Pay: Check their official websites for the latest guides for foreign tourists.
Enjoy your trip to China! With careful planning, it will be a fascinating and rewarding experience.
