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Safety and Security

For most visitors, China remains a very safe country.  Petty street crime is the most common safety concern for U.S. citizens.  Take routine safety precautions, pay attention to surroundings and report any concerns to the local police.  The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in China is “110”; however, very few English speakers staff this hotline.

Violent crime is not common in China; however, demonstrations which may quickly turn violent can start without warning.  While comparatively rare, acts of domestic unrest and even terrorism do occur in China, particularly in areas heavily populated by ethnic minorities. Remain vigilant around large gatherings and crowds.

Business disputes between U.S. citizens and Chinese business partners can sometimes  result in physical confrontation or kidnapping.  If you feel your safety is threatened, consider going directly to a police station or relocating to a public place where local police would be compelled to act should there be a public disturbance. The Chinese authorities are responsible for the safety and security of all residents in and travelers to China.  Training, capability, and responsiveness of Chinese authorities varies.  The U.S. Embassy and consulates general have no law enforcement authority. 

Con artists are known to target visitors at popular tourist sites.  Common scams include young Chinese inviting visitors out to tea and leaving them with an exhorbitant bill or callers posing as police officers and requesting a funds transfer to resolve an identity theft or money laundering investigation. In these cases, DO NOT WIRE any money.  If you receive any suspicious calls or requests, contact the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) to verify the caller’s identity.  If you already have been victim of a scam, catalogue as many details as possible, including names, telephone and bank numbers, and email and IP addresses; file a police report, and inform the U.S. Embassy or a U.S. consulate.  Please see the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Be cautious when using taxi services, especially at airports. Avoid unlicensed “black cabs,” insist that the driver use the meter,  and get a receipt.  Have the name of your destination written in Chinese characters and ask the driver to remove the bags from the trunk before you get out of the taxi and before you pay.

Counterfeit currency is a significant concern in China.  Carrying small bills or using exact change, particularly in taxis, can help protect you.  Use only ATMs at trusted financial institutions.

Victims of Crime:  If you are the victim of a crime, contact the local police and the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate.  We can:

  • help you find appropriate medical care
  • assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • contact relatives or friends on your behalf
  • explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
  • provide a list of local attorneys
  • provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
  • provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
  • help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
  • replace a stolen or lost passport

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, you must apply for both a new passport at the U.S. Embassy or consulate, and a new Chinese visa.  File a police report at the nearest police station right away. You may also be directed to file a report at the local Exit/Entry Bureau.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or consulate for assistance. Domestic violence in China is rarely recognized as a crime.

For further information:

Safety and Security Flag

Population: 1,439,323,776


Total Land Area: 9,388,211 km2


Population/km2: 153.31