Practical guides for foreign residents and visitors in mainland China. Start with your next task, then confirm the arrangements with the relevant hospital, service or insurer.
See a doctor
- Seeing a doctor in China — prepare for an appointment and know what to ask before leaving.
- Booking with a foreign passport — check identity, account, phone and confirmation requirements.
- Public hospitals, international departments and private clinics — compare practical arrangements for a specific service.
Prepare payment and documents
- Costs, insurance and direct billing — separate the bill, payment method and policy coverage.
- Medical records and English reports — request the documents, format and language you need.
Set up payments in China
- Payment methods: apps, cards and cash — choose a working option and prepare a fallback.
- Alipay setup for foreign visitors — download, register, verify and link a card.
- WeChat Pay setup for foreign visitors — activate the wallet and understand fees.
- UnionPay cards, app and visitor wallet — identify the right product and check eligibility.
Before your trip
Healthcare preparation checklist — save contacts, confirm arrangements and plan for documents after you leave.
Local information and emergency contacts
The guides identify their sources and scope. Read how we use sources or report information that needs correcting.