Traveling from China to the United States requires a thorough understanding of visa policies, exemptions, and restricted areas.
This article provides an in-depth overview of the travel restrictions and requirements for Chinese citizens wishing to visit the US or its territories.
Can Chinese Citizens Travel to the U.S.?
Yes, Chinese citizens can travel to the United States.
There is no travel ban for Chinese citizens. Holding a passport issued by the People’s Republic of China is not in itself a reason for a traveler to be denied entry into the United States’ territory.
The U.S. and China have worked together to make travel between the 2 countries smoother and more efficient in recent years.
For example, Chinese visitors are the only foreigners that can access the EVUS registration system to update their U.S. visa details online before crossing the border.
What documents do I need to enter the U.S. from China?
Chinese nationals who wish to travel to the United States must have the following documents:
- A valid passport
- An approved B1 or B2 visa for short-term stays
- A valid visa for a long-term stay
The type of visa required will depend on the purpose of the visit. For instance, a B-2 visa is for tourism, while a B-1 visa is for business. It's essential to ensure that all documents are up-to-date and meet the U.S. government's criteria.
Holders of a Chinese passport and a B1/B2 visa must also enroll in the EVUS system. They can complete the EVUS application form in a few minutes.
It is also important for Chinese travelers to abide by the US customs regulations to avoid penalties on banned or restricted goods.
US Immigration Requirements for Chinese Visa Applicants
Every Chinese visa applicant must demonstrate their intent to visit the U.S. for a specific purpose and a limited duration. They must also prove they have a residence outside the U.S. and ties that ensure their return.
The application process includes a fee, and applicants undergo an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. The fee increases for work visas and varies for other categories.
If rejected, the fee is non-refundable. Chinese applicants may also need to pay a visa issuance fee.
Visa exemption for the Northern Mariana Islands
While the U.S. visa policy applies to the Northern Mariana Islands, the territory offers additional visa waiver programs.
A parole policy allows nationals of China to enter as tourists for up to 14 days without a U.S. visa or ESTA. However, travelers using this program cannot visit other parts of the U.S. without the required documents.
Visiting American Samoa from China
American Samoa has its own visa policy, separate from the U.S. Neither a U.S. visa nor an ESTA can be used to enter the territory.
Nationals from China need an entry permit to visit American Samoa. This requires a local sponsor, various clearances, and a fee.
The application must be submitted at least 30 days before travel. However, transit travelers can apply for a free electronic authorization for up to 24 hours.
US restricted areas for Chinese citizens
Several U.S. Minor Outlying Islands have stringent visit restrictions. These include:
- Baker Island
- Howland Island
- Jarvis Island
- Johnston Atoll
- Kingman Reef
- Midway Atoll
- Navassa Island
- Palmyra Atoll
- Wake Island
These islands are not open to the public. Visits require special permits from various U.S. agencies, depending on the island in question.
For Palmyra Atoll, permits are issued by The Nature Conservancy, while only the U.S. Air Force can authorize entry for Johnston Atoll and Wake Island. To visit the other islands, you require a permit issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service.
You can visit any other state or territory in the U.S. as a Chinese citizen, as long as you have a valid visa for the United States and have enrolled with EVUS.
