Healthcare resources
Explore published hospital information, screening resources and official guides. Our editorial scope includes every city in China; the references below reflect what we have checked so far.
China had 105 cities with urban populations of over one million in the 2020 census. By the end of 2024, China had 4,111 tertiary hospitals nationwide, the highest tier in its hospital grading system. Foreign visitors can seek care at public and private hospitals in China.
Foreigners can see doctors at hospitals in China without restrictions, but almost all hospitals do not offer services in English or other foreign languages. Overseas credit cards may also not be accepted, and you cannot pay directly with cash in US dollars or euros either.
China groups hospitals into three tiers. Tertiary hospitals are the highest tier in this system and offer a broad range of medical services.
Chinese government website: China continues to enhance public medical services ↗Payments
Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used for everyday payments in China. Foreign visitors can link supported overseas bank cards to these apps. Set them up before your trip and keep some RMB cash as a backup; card acceptance and payment limits can vary.
Accommodation
Foreign visitors can stay in hotels or private homes in China. Hotels handle accommodation registration when you check in with your passport. When staying in a private home, you or your host must register your stay with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. Agree with your host how this will be done before you arrive.
Getting around
Use local ride-hailing services such as DiDi, or take a regular taxi. You can book rides through DiDi, Alipay or WeChat. Save your destination and pickup address in Chinese, especially the correct hospital campus and entrance.
Food and dietary needs
Do not assume restaurant staff understand peanut allergies or what a gluten-free diet requires. Explain in Chinese exactly which ingredients you must avoid, including those in sauces and cooking oils, and ask about shared utensils. Carry a clearly translated card describing your needs. Removing visible peanuts from a dish does not make it safe for someone with a peanut allergy.
Entry requirements
Do not assume you can obtain a visa on arrival for a planned trip. China’s port visas for urgent entry require supporting documents and approval. Eligible passport holders may instead qualify for up to 30 days of visa-free entry for specified purposes. The 240-hour visa-free transit policy now covers 57 nationalities and requires confirmed onward travel to a third country or region, using designated ports and permitted stay areas. Check the official rules for your passport, travel dates and purpose; confirm the appropriate entry permission for a planned medical visit.
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Contribute informationThese practical notes cover mainland China. Follow the sources for details and local arrangements.
An immigration health examination and a preventive checkup serve different purposes. Shanghai’s official immigration guide describes examinations for certain long-term residence arrangements; it should not be read as a universal requirement for a medical tourist.
Shanghai’s official immigration health-check guide ↗