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Do I need to carry my passport every day in China?
Last updated Jul 12, 2026
Check the official facts your entry path depends on
Use your passport category, stay length, and onward route to open the relevant official rule and document checklist. This is not an eligibility decision.
What the law and operators require
- Public-security inspection: Article 38 covers the original passport or other international travel document, or a valid stay or residence permit.
- Hotel registration: the current government visitor guide says foreign travelers present a passport or other valid identity document at reception.
- Rail: China Railway uses real-name ticketing and accepts listed identity documents, including a passport, for foreign travelers.
- Attractions: requirements vary by operator and booking channel, so verify the exact attraction before leaving your passport elsewhere.
Carry it safely
Use a secure inside pocket or document pouch and return the passport to the same place after every identity check. If you hold a separate stay or residence permit, confirm that it is valid and appropriate for the inspection or operator task before relying on it instead of the passport.
If your passport is ever lost or stolen, report it to local police for a record and contact your embassy. Having the photo of your ID and visa pages saved offline makes a replacement much faster.
Save an offline backup
- Keep an offline image of the identity page and current visa or entry document to help with replacement; it is not a substitute where the original is required.
- Store a paper copy separately from the original.
- Save your embassy or consulate contact details and the NIA 12367 service number.
Keep reading
Related questions
Payment-app support, visa rules, and connectivity change. Verify time-sensitive items with official sources before departure.