What Visa Do I Need for Xiamen? Planning a trip to Xiamen? Before booking your flight, check China’s visa requirements. Most travelers need a visa to enter China, but citizens from 71 countries can visit without a visa for up to 15 days (check if your passport matches this list). For longer stays or specific nationalities, apply for a tourist visa (L-type) through a Chinese embassy or consulate. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. If you’re transiting through another Chinese city, confirm if a transit visa (G-type) is required.

How Does the Entry Process Work at Xiamen Airport?

Landing at Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport? The process is straightforward. After disembarking, follow signs to Immigration. Present your passport, visa, and a completed arrival card (given on the plane). Officers may ask about your itinerary—prepare a hotel reservation or invitation letter. Next, collect your luggage and proceed to Customs. Declare any restricted items (e.g., food, medications) to avoid fines. Finally, exit to the arrival hall, where you’ll find taxis, hotels, and airport shuttles.

Are There COVID-19 Restrictions in Xiamen?

As of 2023, Xiamen follows China’s dynamic pandemic policies. Check the latest rules before departure: some travelers may need a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours. Vaccination certificates (in Chinese or English) might be required. Upon arrival, monitor local guidelines—mask mandates or health codes (like Zhujiang) could apply. Visit Xiamen CDC website for updates.

What Should I Declare at Xiamen Customs?

China has strict customs rules. Avoid bringing:

  • Fresh food (including fruits, meat, or dairy).
  • Unauthorized medications (max 200 tablets allowed).
  • Exotic animals or products (e.g., coral, ivory).
  • More than 5,000 USD in cash (declare amounts over this limit).

Use this table for quick reference:

Item Allowed Restricted/Prohibited
Prescription meds Yes (with doc note) No (illegal drugs)
Duty-free alcohol 1L per person Over 1L
Cigars 400/person Over 400

How Can I Get Around Xiamen Easily?

Xiamen’s public transport is traveler-friendly. From the airport, take Bus 848 to downtown (¥2, 40 mins) or the MRT Line 1 (¥2, 30 mins). Taxis are affordable (flag fall: ¥10) but ensure the meter is used. For island hopping, ferries to Gulangyu Island cost ¥35 round-trip. Many apps (Didi, WeChat Pay) work here, but download them before arriving. For hassle-free trips, consider private tours via agencies like Deep China Travel—they handle logistics and cultural insights!

Pro tip: Xiamen’s peak season is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Book flights and accommodations early to avoid crowds.