The XXIXth Olympic Summer Games and the Beijing Paralympic Summer Games will take place from August 8-24, 2008, and September 6-17, 2008, respectively.  There are seven major venue sites, six outside of Beijing, including Hong Kong, Qingdao, Qinhuangdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Tianjin.  Equestrian events will be held in Hong Kong and sailing events in Qingdao.  Qinhuangdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Tianjin will host the soccer preliminaries. 

The Beijing Organizing Committee for the 29th Olympiad Games (BOCOG) website provides additional information on the XXIXth Olympic Summer Games, including information on hotel accommodations, tickets, transportation, and advice for spectators. Please see the Beijing Paralympic Summer Games website for information regarding those games.  The U.S. Embassy’s Beijing Olympics website and the CDC travelers’ health website provide additional information to American citizens planning to travel to China or Hong Kong SAR to see or participate in the Games.

Many U.S. citizens will be traveling to the Olympics this summer.  If you plan on being in China for events in August or September, early preparation is the key.  Please review carefully the information presented here.

Security Assessment:

THREAT LEVELS:  The threat level for terrorism against Americans in China remains low.  However, any large-scale public event like the upcoming Olympic Games could become the focus of terrorist acts or other forms of violence.  There is no reason to believe that U.S. citizens are being targeted at this time.  However, recent violence in Tibet and a purported early March failed attempt to create an explosion on a passenger plane in flight from western China’s Xinjiang Province to Beijing are good examples of how potentially dangerous events can occur in the run-up to the Olympics.  U.S. citizens planning travel to China should regularly check www.travel.state.gov for updated travel warnings, alerts or cautions. U.S. citizens planning to attend Olympic events or to participate in any large-scale public gatherings during the Olympic Games are advised to use caution and to be alert to their surroundings at all times.  The threat level for political violence also remains low.  In most major metropolitan areas, the Chinese authorities employ an overwhelming police/security presence to ensure that demonstrations remain peaceful.  Protestors must receive an official permit from municipal authorities prior to being allowed to gather. 

CRIME:  Major metropolitan areas in China are relatively safe, especially in comparison with similar sized cities in other developing countries.  A sizeable law enforcement and security presence serves as an effective deterrent against most types of crime, including those of a violent nature.  Nevertheless, the Mission assesses that while the overall crime threat is low, the number of criminal incidents, including those directed against Americans, continues to rise. 

Travelers are strongly encouraged to be aware of their surroundings while in China.  Continued vigilance is necessary to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of crime.  As a general rule, lesser developed areas in major cities have a higher rate of crime.  Statistically, more crimes of opportunity transpire during early morning hours; for example, individuals who frequent bars, nightclubs, and similar establishments are more likely to be involved in physical altercations after midnight.

PRIVACY & SAFETY:  All visitors should be aware that they have no reasonable expectation of privacy in public or private locations.  All hotel rooms and offices are considered to be subject to on-site or remote technical monitoring at all times.  Hotel rooms, residences and offices may be accessed at any time without the occupant’s consent or knowledge.  Many hotels and apartment buildings may be of substandard construction, lack emergency exits, fire suppression systems, carbon monoxide monitors and standard security equipment (locks, alarms, and personnel).  Americans traveling abroad should be reminded to review fire evacuation procedures for hotels, apartments or offices.

PRIVATE SECTOR SECURITY:  Chinese law does not permit foreign private security officers to carry firearms in China.  Foreign private security officers have no law enforcement authority in China.  Due to the increased access restrictions around Beijing during the Olympics, the Mission recommends the use of expeditors and/or Chinese chauffeurs to assist the movements of VIPs.  To date, Beijing Olympic organizers have established one approved private guard company during the Olympics to provide security services, Beijing Security Service General Company.

For additional information on safety/security in China, please see the following:

• Department of State Worldwide Caution
• U.S. Embassy Beijing’s Warden Messages
• U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong Warden Messages
• Department of State's "A Safe Trip Abroad"
• Department of State’s "Top 10 Tips for Travelers"
• Beijing OSAC Crime and Safety Report 2008

Before You Go:

One way to make your foreign travel safer and more enjoyable is to inform yourself about what you will find when you arrive overseas. The Department of State publishes Country Specific Information for both China and Hong Kong SAR that includes information on usual immigration practices, health conditions, minor political disturbances, usual currency and entry regulations, crime and security--including risk of terrorism, and drug penalties.  The Country Specific Information presents information in a factual manner so that you can make your own decisions about your travel. 

• Registration:  The Department of State urges you to register with the U.S. Embassy in Beijing or the respective U.S. Consulate in China or Hong Kong SAR, via our Internet-Based Registration System.

Important Note: Since this registration system site is not always available from within China, registering before you leave home is highly recommended.   If you need to register, are already in China, and have not been successful registering on the internet, please contact AmCitBeijing@state.gov.

Registration will help us locate you in the event there is a general emergency or if someone in the United States needs to reach you about an urgent matter.  Travel registration is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in a foreign country.  Registration allows you to record information about your overseas country of residence or upcoming trip abroad.  You should also leave a copy of your itinerary, a copy of your passport data pages, and your contact information with family or friends.

• Dual Nationals: Dual national Americans, particularly those with dual Chinese and American nationality, should realize that entering China using their non-U.S. passport could mean that the Chinese Government may not afford them the consular protections to which they are entitled.  While the U.S. Government will offer consular services to all U.S. citizens regardless of dual nationality, use of other than a U.S. passport to enter China can make it difficult for U.S. Consuls to assist dual national Americans who have been arrested or who have other concerns with the Chinese Government.

Additional information about dual nationality can be found on our web site.
Important Note:   If you are a dual American/Chinese citizen and are arrested or detained in China, the choice you made on which passport to use in entering China will be very important.  U.S. Embassy and Consulate officials are often denied access to arrested or detained Americans who do not enter China using their U.S. passport.  

• Customs: Customs authorities from both China and Hong Kong SAR may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export of items such as firearms, religious materials (these are limited to personal use only), antiquities, medications, medical equipment, business equipment, and other items.  It is advisable to contact the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C. or one of China’s consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.  The Hong Kong Department of Customs and Excise provides specific information regarding Hong Kong SAR customs requirements.

• Authentic Goods:  In many countries around the world, including China, counterfeit and pirated goods, including medications, are widely available.  Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines.  A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found here.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection may impose corresponding import restrictions in accordance with the Convention on Cultural Property Implementation Act.  CBP maintains general travel information.  For China specific information please see QBPC - Quality Brands Protection Committee - China.

• Ticket Scams:  Those interested in purchasing tickets to the Olympics Games should make sure that they order their tickets from the official Beijing Olympics website or in the United States through CoSport, the designated sales agent.

Entry Requirements: 

There are differing requirements for travel to and between China and Hong Kong SAR.  Please see the Country Specific Information for China and Hong Kong for specific entry requirements. 

Important Note: Failure to comply with entry requirements for China and Hong Kong SAR may be strongly penalized.   Persons attempting to enter China without a visa or a passport may be detained, arrested, or deported.

Special Notes:

• Re-Entry to and Transit of China:  Visas are required to transit China. Persons transiting China on the way to and from Mongolia or North Korea or who plan to re-enter from the Hong Kong or Macau Special Administrative Regions should be sure to obtain visas allowing multiple entries. 

• Tibet:  Permits are required to visit Tibet as well as many remote areas not normally open to foreigners.  Every foreigner going to Tibet needs to get a travel permit which can be obtained through local travel agents.  Permits cost RMB 100, are single-entry and valid for at most three months.  Most areas in Tibet are not open for foreigners.  Foreigners can be fined, taken into custody and removed for visiting restricted areas.

For information about entry requirements and restricted areas, travelers may consult:
Visa Office of the Embassy of China (PRC)
2201 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W.
Room 110
Washington D.C. 20007
Phone: (202) 338-6688 and (202) 588-9760.

• Air Travel Confirmation:  Travelers should note that international flights departing China are routinely overbooked, making reconfirmation of departure reservations and early airport check-in essential.  An airport user fee for both international and domestic flights is now included in the cost of the ticket price.

• Exiting China:  The most recent information is that China requires that you do not exceed the expiration date of your Chinese visa.  When you depart China to return home, your visa may be checked and a fine imposed for an overstay.

While You're There:

Since the 2008 Olympic Games will be held in various cities throughout China and Hong Kong SAR, contact information for all the U.S. Consulates General in China, the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong SAR, and the U.S. Embassy Beijing are listed at the end of this information sheet.  U.S. consuls stand ready to assist Americans in a variety of emergency situations overseas, including lost and stolen passports, illness, temporary destitution, crime, or arrest.  If an American citizen becomes seriously ill or injured abroad, a U.S. consular officer can assist in locating appropriate medical services and informing family or friends.  If necessary, a consular officer can also assist in the transfer of funds from the United States.  However, payment of hospital and other expenses is the responsibility of the traveler, and hospitals normally request advance payment.  Your medical insurance company can advise you on whether your policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as medical evacuation.  More information can be found on the health section of State Department’s website http://www.travel.state.gov/.

American visitors to China should ensure their passports are well-protected and out of reach of pickpockets.  Americans with Chinese residence permits should carry these documents and leave their passports in a secure location except when traveling.  All Americans are encouraged to make photocopies of their passport bio-data pages and Chinese visas and to keep these in a separate, secure location.  If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a replacement at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing or one of our U.S. Consulates General in China or Hong Kong SAR before continuing your travel abroad or returning to the United States.  For more information, please see the State Department’s Frequently Asked Questions.

Note: The U.S. Embassy in Beijing and U.S. Consulates General throughout China and Hong Kong SAR will offer expanded hours during the Olympics

American citizens who need financial assistance should explore commercial options such as Western Union or other money wire services, credit card advances, or automatic teller machines (ATMs) (please note that not all ATMs accept international credit cards).  In emergencies, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates General can help you contact family and friends to have them send money.  For more information, please see the Department of State's webpage on Providing Financial Assistance to Americans Abroad and its link to the Department's Overseas Citizens Services Trusts.

Please note that consular officers in our Embassy in Beijing or Consulates General throughout China and Hong Kong SAR cannot act as travel agents, banks, lawyers, investigators, post offices, or law enforcement officers.  They cannot find you employment, get you residence or driving permits, act as interpreters, search for missing luggage, or settle disputes with hotel managers.  They can, however, tell you how to get help on these and other matters.

Americans traveling or living in China and/or Hong Kong SAR are subject to those legal systems and can be arrested for violating local law.  The Department of State or the U.S. Embassy and Consulates General cannot have an American released from prison.  However, U.S. consular officers can provide other types of assistance.  For more information, please see the Department's flyer on Assistance to Americans Arrested Abroad. 

Despite the best preparation, crises like natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or mass-transportation accidents can occur.  For information on what you can do in a crisis and how the U.S. Government can assist you, please see the Department of State webpage on Crisis Awareness.

Health Information: 

The Chinese health-care system and facilities in China differ from those in the United States.  Chinese hospitals tend to be more crowded, personnel may have limited English-speaking skills, and medication and treatment standards are different than what Americans might expect.  The same brand of medication taken regularly in the United States will probably not be available in China, and imported supplies are not typically permitted, so please check with your physician if you must take medication daily.  Make sure to bring enough medication for the length of your trip and any unexpected minor delays. It is important to bring your regular medications in their original containers and a copy of all prescriptions, including the generic names for medications.  If you take a controlled substance or an injectable medication, you should also bring a note from the prescribing physician on letterhead stationery.  Some medications are not allowed in China, so it is important to check customs information before traveling.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Tuberculosis (TB) is an increasingly serious health concern in China.  For further information, please consult the CDC's information about TB.  For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) and the CDC travel notices pages.  More health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.  Additional information on Avian Influenza may also be found on the State Department’s website and the CDC’s travelers’ health website.

• Insurance:  The Department of State urges Americans traveling overseas to ensure they have adequate medical insurance, including insurance for medical evacuations.  Medicare recipients should know that Medicare does not cover medical expenses abroad.  For more information, see the State Department’s flyer Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad.  Please note that some private insurance companies do not cover medical care overseas, so do check your policy before traveling and consider purchasing additional insurance.  Similarly, some travelers, particularly those who have underlying or chronic illnesses should consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance.  Policies differ regarding their provisions so it is important to read them thoroughly.  Since Chinese hospitals typically require payment before treatment, it is important that Americans have sufficient funds available. 

Useful Contact Information:

United States:

• Department of State's Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management
• Within U.S. and Canada:  1-888-407-4747
• From overseas: 001-202-501-4444

• Department of State's National Passport Information Center
• Within the U.S.:  1-877-487-2778
• TDD/TTY from within the U.S.: 1-888-874-7793
• American citizens overseas should contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for information about passports.

China:

• U.S. Embassy Beijing:   No. 2 Xiu Shui Dong Jie, Chaoyang District, 100600 Beijing tel: 86-10-6532-3431 Email: AmCitBeijing@state.gov. Embassy’s website:  http://beijing.usembassy-china.org.cn/

Embassy Olympic website: http://beijing.usembassy-china.org.cn/2008olympics.html.

• U.S. Consulate General Chengdu:  Number 4, Lingshiguan Road, Section 4, Renmin Nanlu, Chengdu 610041, tel. 86-28-8558-3992 Email: consularchengdu@state.gov. 

• U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou:   The Consular Section is located at 5th Floor, Tianyu Garden (II phase), 136-146 Lin He Zhong Lu, Tianhe District, tel. (86-20) 8518-7605; Email:GuangzhouACS@state.gov. 

Email: GuangzhouA@state.gov (Guangzhou adoptions).

• U.S. Consulate General Shanghai:  The Consular Section is located in the Westgate Mall, 8th Floor, 1038 Nanjing Xi Lu, Shanghai 200041; tel. (86-21) 3217-4650, Email: ShanghaiACS@state.gov. 

• U.S. Consulate General Shenyang:  No. 52, 14th Wei Road, Heping District, Shenyang 110003; tel. (86-24) 2322-1198, Email: ShenyangACS@state.gov.

• Local Authorities China

Police (while in China): 110
Ambulance (while in China): 112
Fire Department (while in China): 119

Hong Kong:

Tel. from within Hong Kong: 2523-9011
Tel. from the U.S.: +(852) 2523-9011
Address: 26 Garden Road, Hong Kong

Emergency assistance for English-speaking visitors in Hong Kong:999
Police (while in Hong Kong): 999
Ambulance (while in Hong Kong): 999
Fire Department (while in Hong Kong): 999 

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