China Romance
Expats in Asia => Obstacles for an Expat in Asia => Topic started by: Pineau on August 20, 2014, 03:51:19 am
-
One thing I did when I first began my journey was to go to the US Department of state and Register with them as a traveler in foreign countries. I also identified the places where I could be found.
By doing this you have peace of mind , knowing that your Government has knowledge of your whereabouts. You will receive all alerts and announcements relevant to you and the country where you are staying. I have not kept mine up to date since I left China so I continue to get announcements and warnings relevant to China and Asia.
To register Go here. https://step.state.gov/step/ (https://step.state.gov/step/)
-
Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Mid-term Elections - Register to Vote Now!
Your vote counts! Did you know that many recent U.S. elections have been decided by a margin smaller than the number of ballots cast by military and overseas voters? All states are required to count every absentee ballot as long as it is valid and reaches local election officials by the absentee ballot receipt deadline.
Follow a few simple steps to make sure that you can vote in the 2014 U.S. elections:
Registering to Vote: Complete a new Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). Even if you have voted by absentee ballot in the past, you must complete a new Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) to vote in the 2014 elections. The FPCA is accepted by all local election officials in all U.S. states and territories. It allows you to register to vote and to request absentee ballots for all regular, primary, run-off, and special elections for federal offices (President, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House of Representatives) during the course of the year in which it is submitted.
You can complete the FPCA onlineat FVAP.gov. The online voting assistant will ask you questions specific to your state. It will tell you if your state allows the FPCA to be returned electronically or if you must submit a paper copy with original signature.
Receiving Your Ballot: Request Electronic Delivery! States are now required to send out ballots 45 days before a regular election for federal office (President, U.S. Senate or U.S. House of Representatives) and states generally send out ballots at least 30 days before primary elections. No matter which state you vote in, we encourage you to ask your local election officials to deliver your blank ballots to you electronically (by email, internet download, or fax, depending on your state). Be sure to include your email address on your FPCA to take advantage of the electronic ballot delivery option. You can now also confirm your registration and ballot delivery online for most states.
Researching the Candidates and Issues: Online Resources. Check out the FVAP links page for helpful resources that will aid your research of candidates and issues. Non-partisan information about candidates, their voting records, and their positions on issues are widely available and easy to obtain via numerous websites such as Project Smart Voter. You can also read national and hometown newspapers on-line, or search the Internet to locate articles and information. For information about election dates and deadlines, subscribe to FVAP's Voting Alerts (vote@fvap.gov). FVAP also shares Voting Alerts via Facebookand Twitter.
Returning Your Completed Ballot: Other Options. If your state requires you to return paper voting forms or ballots to local election officials, you can do so free of charge at the nearest embassy or consulate. They must be in either postage paid return envelopes or in envelopes bearing sufficient domestic U.S. postage, and must also be addressed to the relevant local election officials.
If you would like to drop off your completed FPCA or ballot for delivery to the United States via diplomatic pouch free of charge, you can drop off your completed voting forms and ballots, addressed to your local election officials, at the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou’s American Citizen Services Unit located at 43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou , China 510623.
Business Hours:
08:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Mondays – Fridays (except on holidays and Wednesday afternoons.)
Normal transit time from the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou to the United States is 20 business days. Voting assistance is also available during these hours.
No reservation is required to drop off you forms or ballots or to request voting assistance. Please present your passport to the guards and visit us at the American Citizen Services unit on the second floor of the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou.
If it’s more convenient for you, you can also return your FPCA or ballot to your local election officials via international mail or professional courier service at your own expense.
Learn more at the Federal Voting Assistance Program's (FVAP) website FVAP.gov. If you have any questions about registering to vote overseas, please contact U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou’s Voting Assistance Officer at (86-20) 3814-5775, or at VoteGuangzhou@state.gov.
-
American Citizen Services Now on WeChat
U.S. Consulate GeneralGuangzhou’s American Citizen Services Unit (Guangzhou ACS) is proud to announce we are now broadcasting information for U.S. citizens on WeChat! Please look for username GuangzhouACS or scan the QR code below with your mobile device for the latest regarding travel alerts, ACS services, and more.
By using social media, we hope to reach out and provide useful and timely tips and information for American citizens in our consular district. As always, if you have a question about a specific case, feel free to email us at guangzhouacs@state.gov.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in China enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at http://www.travel.state.gov/. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution are all on the State Department's website, including the Country Specific Information for China. For additional information, please read “A Safe Trip Abroad.”
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou is located at 43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China 510623 and is open from 8:00 a.m. to12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at (86)(20) 3814-5775. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance outside of business hours, the emergency number for the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou is (86)(010) 8531-4000.
The U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road, Chaoyang District
Beijing 100600
Telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
The Embassy consular district includes the municipalities of Beijing and Tianjin and the provinces/autonomous regions of Gansu, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Inner Mongolia, Jiangxi, Ningxia, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, and Xinjiang.
The U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu
Number 4, Lingshiguan Road, Section 4, Renmin Nanlu
Chengdu 610041
Telephone: (86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guizhou, Sichuan, Xizang (Tibet) and Yunnan, as well as the municipality of Chongqing.
The U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou
43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District,
Guangzhou 510623
Telephone: (86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86)(010) 8531-4000
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, and Fujian.
The U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai
Westgate Mall, 8th Floor, 1038 Nanjing Xi Lu
Shanghai 200031
Telephone: (86)(21) 3217-4650
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
This consular district includes Shanghai municipality and the provinces of Anhui, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang.
The U.S. Consulate General in Shenyang
No. 52, 14th Wei Road, Heping District
Shenyang 110003
Telephone: (86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
This consular district includes the provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning.
The U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan
New World International Trade Tower I
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue
Hankou, Wuhan 430022
Telephone: (86) (027) 8555-7791
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
-
Voting Message for U.S. Citizens
Be an Active Voter by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2014 U.S. elections!
in many states, the voter registration deadline for the November 2014 elections is October 6. For some voters this might mean their paper voter registration and absentee ballot request must reach their local election officials by October 6. In order to vote in the November 2014 elections, all overseas U.S. citizens need to have completed a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)in 2014. Whether you are a first-time voter or have already received ballots and voted absentee in past elections, you must complete an FPCA each year to ensure you are able to participate in elections as an overseas absentee voter.
http://www.fvap.gov/links
VoteGuangzhou@state.gov.vote@fvap.gov
http://www.fvap.gov/citizen-voter/registration-ballots
http://www.fvap.gov/citizen-voter
If you have already completed a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)in 2014 and requested electronic delivery of your ballot, you will be receiving your blank ballot or instructions for how to access your ballot soon if you have not already received it. If you are not sure about the status of your absentee ballot request you should contact your local election officials in the United States or check the status of your registration via your state’s voter registration verification website.
You can get voting assistance from the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou or drop off your completed voting forms and ballots, addressed to your local election officials, during the following hours:8:30 to 11:30 a.m. or 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday(except on holidays and Wednesday afternoons).
Normal transit time from the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou to the United States is 20 business days.
HELP SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT OVERSEAS VOTING
Vote with white background
Please help spread the word to your friends, family, and colleagues that now is the time to start thinking about overseas voting. Consider posting to your Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or other social media account that you are an active voter and will be dropping off or mailing your Federal Post Card Application or completed ballot. Use #ProudOverseasVoter to help get the word out about voting.
If you have never voted while overseas before, it’s not too late. The process is easy -- just follow these steps:
1. Complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)
Whether you are a first-time voter or have voted absentee in past elections, complete an FPCA to receive your ballot this fall. It allows you to register to vote and request absentee ballots for all elections for federal offices (presidential and state primaries, run-off, special, and the November general elections) during the course of the year in which you submit the FPCA. Local election officials in all U.S. states and territories accept the FPCA.
The online voting assistant available at FVAP.gov is an easy way to complete the FPCA. It will ask you questions specific to your state and tell you if electronic ballot delivery is possible. No matter which state you vote in, we encourage you to ask your local election officials to deliver your blank ballots to you electronically (by email, internet download, or fax, depending on your state). Be sure to include your email address to take advantage of electronic delivery. The online voting assistant will generate a printable FPCA, which you can then print and sign.
2. Submit the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)
If you would like to drop off your completed FPCA or ballot for delivery to the United States free of charge, you can drop off your completed voting forms and ballots, addressed to your local election officials, at the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou’s American Citizen Services Unit located at 43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou , China 510623.
If it’s more convenient for you, you can have a friend or family member drop off your FPCA at the consulate, on your behalf or you can send your FPCA or ballot directly to your local election officials via international mail or professional courier service at your own expense.
3. Receive Your Ballot
After submitting your FPCA, most states allow you to confirm online your registration and ballot delivery selection. States are now required to send out ballots 45 days before an election for federal office(President, U.S. Senate, or U.S. House of Representatives) to any overseas U.S. citizen who has completed an FPCA.
4. Return Your Ballot
As with the FPCA, you can return your voted ballot to your local election officials free of charge via the consulate or mail it directly at your own expense.
Your Vote Counts
Many U.S. elections within the past ten years have been decided by a margin of victory of less than 0.1%. All states are required to count every absentee ballot as long as it is valid and reaches local election officials by the absentee ballot receipt deadline (differs by state).
Be an educated voter. Check out the FVAP links page for helpful resources that will aid your research of candidates and issues. You can also read national and hometown newspapers online, and search the Internet to locate articles and information.
To receive information by email about election dates and deadlines, subscribe to FVAP's Voting Alerts (vote@fvap.gov). FVAP also shares Voting Alerts via Facebookand Twitter.
If you have any questions about registering to vote overseas, please contact U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou’s Voting Assistance Officer at (86-20) 3814-5775, or at VoteGuangzhou@state.gov.
-
American Citizen Services is on WeChat
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou’s American Citizen Services Unit (Guangzhou ACS) is proud to announce we are now broadcasting information for U.S. citizens on WeChat! Please add username GuangzhouACS to follow us for the latest information regarding travel alerts, ACS services, and more.
By using social media, we hope to reach out and provide useful, timely tips and information for American citizens in our consular district. For questions regarding a specific case, please email us at guangzhouacs@state.gov.
-
Security Message: Report of Alleged Planning of Possible Terrorist Incident in Kunming, Yunnan Province
The United States Embassy in Beijing is aware of media reports alleging that terrorists may be planning to launch an attack in Kunming, Yunnan Province over the Lunar New Year period. The Embassy has not been able to verify the accuracy of this report.
As noted in the current Country Specific Information Sheet for China, violent attacks in 2014, including acts of terrorism, resulted in several dozen injuries and deaths in public spaces throughout China, including in train stations and markets. Although neither U.S. citizens specifically nor foreigners generally were targeted in these attacks, such incidents pose a random threat to foreigners. As always, the Embassy urges U.S. citizens to pay attention to their surroundings when traveling in China and report any concerns to the local police.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Country Specific Information, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States or Canada, or for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time (EST), Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The U.S. Embassy in Beijing can be reached 24 hours per day at 86-10-8531-4000. The addresses and telephone contact information for the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in China are at the bottom of this announcement.
U.S. citizens residing or traveling in China are reminded to register with the U.S. Embassy or closest U.S. Consulate by entering your travel itinerary and contact information at https://step.state.gov/step/. In case of difficulties registering online, please contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300
The Embassy consular district includes the municipalities of Beijing and Tianjin and the provinces/autonomous regions of Gansu, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Inner Mongolia, Jiangxi, Ningxia, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, and Xinjiang.
BeijingACS@state.gov
Consulates
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou
43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District
Guangzhou 510623
China
Telephone: (86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(20) 3814-5572
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, and Fujian.
GuangzhouACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu
Number 4 Lingshiguan Road
Section 4, Renmin Nanlu
Chengdu 61004,China
Telephone: (86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(28) 8554 6229
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guizhou, Sichuan, Xizang (Tibet) and Yunnan, as well as the municipality of Chongqing.
AmCitChengdu@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai
Westgate Mall, 8th Floor, 1038 Nanjing Xi Lu,
Shanghai 200031
China
Telephone: +(86)(21) 3217-4650
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (86)(21) 3217-4650
Fax: +(86)(21) 6217-2071
This consular district includes Shanghai municipality and the provinces of Anhui, Jiangsu and Zhejiang.
ShanghaiACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang
No. 52, 14th Wei Road, Heping District,
Shenyang 110003
China
Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000 or 86-137-0988-9307 (calling from the United States), or 137-0988-9307 (calling within China).
Fax: +(86)(24) 2323-1465
This consular district includes: the provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning.
shenyangacs@state.gov
The U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan
New World International Trade Tower I,
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue
Hankou, Wuhan 430022
China
Telephone: +(86)(027) 8555-7791
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: 027-8555-776
Please note that Wuhan does not provide regularly scheduled consular services. Contact the Embassy in Beijing for consular assistance.
USConsulateWuhan@state.gov
-
Security Message: China-Burma Border Incidents
The U.S. Embassy in Beijing is aware of recent increased tensions related to the ongoing armed conflict in Burma between the Burmese government and various ethnic minority groups near the China-Burma border. As a result of the conflict, the Chinese government has restricted travel to the border region. U.S. citizens traveling near the China-Burma border may encounter checkpoints or may be prevented from entering certain areas. As always, the Embassy urges U.S. citizens to pay attention to their surroundings when traveling in China and report any concerns to the local police and to the Embassy or nearest U.S. consulate.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Country Specific Information, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States or Canada, or for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time (EST), Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The U.S. Embassy in Beijing can be reached 24 hours per day at 86-10-8531-4000. The addresses and telephone contact information for the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in China are at the bottom of this announcement.
U.S. citizens residing or traveling in China are reminded to register with the U.S. Embassy or closest U.S. Consulate by entering your travel itinerary and contact information at https://step.state.gov/step/. In case of difficulties registering online, please contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300
The Embassy consular district includes the municipalities of Beijing and Tianjin and the provinces/autonomous regions of Gansu, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Inner Mongolia, Jiangxi, Ningxia, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, and Xinjiang.
BeijingACS@state.gov
Consulates
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu
Number 4 Lingshiguan Road
Section 4, Renmin Nanlu
Chengdu 61004,China
Telephone: (86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(28) 8554 6229
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guizhou, Sichuan, Xizang (Tibet) and Yunnan, as well as the municipality of Chongqing.
AmCitChengdu@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou
43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District
Guangzhou 510623
China
Telephone: (86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(20) 3814-5572
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, and Fujian.
GuangzhouACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai
Westgate Mall, 8th Floor, 1038 Nanjing Xi Lu,
Shanghai 200031
China
Telephone: +(86)(21) 3217-4650
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (86)(21) 3217-4650
Fax: +(86)(21) 6217-2071
This consular district includes Shanghai municipality and the provinces of Anhui, Jiangsu and Zhejiang.
ShanghaiACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang
No. 52, 14th Wei Road, Heping District,
Shenyang 110003
China
Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000 or 86-137-0988-9307 (calling from the United States), or 137-0988-9307 (calling within China).
Fax: +(86)(24) 2323-1465
This consular district includes: the provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning.
shenyangacs@state.gov
The U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan
New World International Trade Tower I,
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue
Hankou, Wuhan 430022
China
Telephone: +(86)(027) 8555-7791
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: 027-8555-776
Please note that Wuhan does not provide regularly scheduled consular services. Contact the Embassy in Beijing for consular assistance.
USConsulateWuhan@state.gov
-
SECURITY MESSAGE: Knife Attack at Guangzhou Rail Station
Issued March 26, 2015
According to press reports, at approximately 1600 hours on March 24th, a local, emotionally disturbed man attacked people with a knife at the shoe wholesale market “Bu Yun Tian Di,” roughly a kilometer from the Guangzhou Railway Station. Four people were injured in this attack and the perpetrator, after being cornered by security, jumped to his death from the rooftop of a building.
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou notes that this is the third knife attack that has occurred at or in the vicinity of the Guangzhou Railway Station since May 2014. While crime and/or the acts of emotionally disturbed individuals may occur at any time or place, the confluence of incidents in this one area raises concern for the safety of persons, including U.S. citizens, transiting through this location.
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou takes this opportunity to remind all U.S. citizens to practice increased personal security awareness, particularly when transiting through areas with increased risk such as tourist locations or major transportation hubs. U.S. citizens are advised to exercise caution when transiting the Guangzhou Railway Station and its immediate vicinity.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Country Specific Information, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States or Canada, or for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time (EST), Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou is located at 43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China 510623 and is open from 8:00 a.m. to12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at (86)(20) 3814-5775. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance outside of business hours, the emergency number for the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou is (86)(010) 8531-4000.
U.S. citizens residing or traveling in China are reminded to register with the U.S. Embassy or closest U.S. Consulate by entering your travel itinerary and contact information at https://step.state.gov/step/. In case of difficulties registering online, please contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou
43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District
Guangzhou 510623
China
Telephone: (86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(20) 3814-5572
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, and Fujian.
GuangzhouACS@state.gov
U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300
The Embassy consular district includes the municipalities of Beijing and Tianjin and the provinces/autonomous regions of Gansu, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Inner Mongolia, Jiangxi, Ningxia, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, and Xinjiang.
BeijingACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu
Number 4 Lingshiguan Road
Section 4, Renmin Nanlu
Chengdu 61004,China
Telephone: (86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(28) 8554 6229
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guizhou, Sichuan, Xizang (Tibet) and Yunnan, as well as the municipality of Chongqing.
AmCitChengdu@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai
Westgate Mall, 8th Floor, 1038 Nanjing Xi Lu,
Shanghai 200031
China
Telephone: +(86)(21) 3217-4650
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (86)(21) 3217-4650
Fax: +(86)(21) 6217-2071
This consular district includes Shanghai municipality and the provinces of Anhui, Jiangsu and Zhejiang.
ShanghaiACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang
No. 52, 14th Wei Road, Heping District,
Shenyang 110003
China
Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000 or 86-137-0988-9307 (calling from the United States), or 137-0988-9307 (calling within China).
Fax: +(86)(24) 2323-1465
This consular district includes: the provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning.
shenyangacs@state.gov
The U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan
New World International Trade Tower I,
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue
Hankou, Wuhan 430022
China
Telephone: +(86)(027) 8555-7791
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: 027-8555-776
Please note that Wuhan does not provide regularly scheduled consular services. Contact the Embassy in Beijing for consular assistance.
USConsulateWuhan@state.gov
-
Security Message: Tianjin Chemical Explosions
Media sources have reported extensively on explosions at the port of Tianjin, China on August 13 and August 15. The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens in Tianjin to follow the guidance of local authorities and avoid the blast area until given further instructions. We are aware that local authorities are taking measures to prevent secondary disasters and are monitoring air and water pollution in the area to prevent further chemical contamination. The Embassy in Beijing remains in regular contact with local Tianjin government and hospital officials, and we have no information other than that which has been provided to the public by Chinese authorities. We continue to liaise with local authorities, businesses, and healthcare providers to seek information on any U.S. citizens who may have been affected by the explosions.
The Embassy is also aware of social media messages relating to the Tianjin explosions from sources claiming to represent the U.S. Embassy. These messages were not issued by the U.S. Embassy. To determine whether a report is an official message, please check our website http://beijing.usembassy-china.org.cn/ or contact American Citizen Services atBeijingACS@state.gov. All security messages will be sent through our Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens residing or traveling in China are reminded to register with the U.S. Embassy or closest U.S. Consulate by entering your travel itinerary and contact information at https://step.state.gov/step/. In case of difficulties registering online, please contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. In case of difficulties registering online, please contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Country Specific Information, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States or Canada, or for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time (EST), Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The U.S. Embassy in Beijing can be reached 24 hours per day at 86-10-8531-4000. The addresses and telephone contact information for the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in China are at the bottom of this announcement.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou is located at 43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Consulate’s American Citizen Service (ACS) unit can be reached at (86)(20) 3814-5775. You can also contact the ACS unit through email at GuangzhouACS@state.gov. Please visit our website for information on all services provided by the ACS unit. If you are in need of urgent assistance outside of business hours, call the Consulate’s emergency after hours number at (86)(010) 8531-4000, and ask for the duty officer.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in China enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at travel.state.gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department's website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, including any Travel Warnings or Travel Alerts for China, and Worldwide Cautions. Read the Country Specific Information for China. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Follow us on WeChat. Our WeChat ID: GuangzhouACS
The U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road, Chaoyang District
Beijing 100600
Telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
The Embassy consular district includes the municipalities of Beijing and Tianjin and the provinces/autonomous regions of Gansu, Hebei, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Inner Mongolia, Jiangxi, Ningxia, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, and Xinjiang.
The U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu
Number 4, Lingshiguan Road, Section 4, Renmin Nanlu
Chengdu 610041
Telephone: (86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guizhou, Sichuan, Xizang (Tibet) and Yunnan, as well as the municipality of Chongqing.
The U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou
43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District,
Guangzhou 510623
Telephone: (86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86)(010) 8531-4000
This consular district includes the provinces/autonomous region of Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, and Fujian.
The U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai
Westgate Mall, 8th Floor, 1038 Nanjing Xi Lu
Shanghai 200031
Telephone: (86)(21) 3217-4650
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
This consular district includes Shanghai municipality and the provinces of Anhui, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang.
The U.S. Consulate General in Shenyang
No. 52, 14th Wei Road, Heping District
Shenyang 110003
Telephone: (86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
This consular district includes the provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning.
The U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan
New World International Trade Tower I
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue
Hankou, Wuhan 430022
Telephone: (86) (027) 8555-7791
Emergency after-hours telephone: (86) (10) 8531-4000
[Please note that consular services are provided only during quarterly outreaches in Wuhan. Contact the Embassy in Beijing for consular and emergency services.]
-
The State Department alerts U.S. citizens to possible risks of travel due to increased terrorist threats. Current information suggests that ISIL (aka Da’esh), al-Qa’ida, Boko Haram, and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks in multiple regions. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics, using conventional and non-conventional weapons and targeting both official and private interests. This Travel Alert expires on February 24, 2016.
Authorities believe the likelihood of terror attacks will continue as members of ISIL/Da’esh return from Syria and Iraq. Additionally, there is a continuing threat from unaffiliated persons planning attacks inspired by major terrorist organizations but conducted on an individual basis. Extremists have targeted large sporting events, theatres, open markets, and aviation services. In the past year, there have been multiple attacks in France, Nigeria, Denmark, Turkey, and Mali. ISIL/Da’esh has claimed responsibility for the bombing of a Russian airliner in Egypt.
U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using transportation. Be aware of immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds or crowed places. Exercise particular caution during the holiday season and at holiday festivals or events. U.S. citizens should monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities. Persons with specific safety concerns should contact local law enforcement authorities who are responsible for the safety and security of all visitors to their host country. U.S. citizens should:
· Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
· Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions.
· Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
· Register in our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Foreign governments have taken action to guard against terrorist attacks, and some have made official declarations regarding heightened threat conditions. Authorities continue to conduct raids and disrupt terror plots. We continue to work closely with our allies on the threat from international terrorism. Information is routinely shared between the United States and our key partners in order to disrupt terrorist plotting, identify and take action against potential operatives, and strengthen our defenses against potential threats.
For further information:
· See the State Department's travel websitefor the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information.
· Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
· Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
· Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
-
The U.S. Embassy has received information of possible threats against Westerners in the Sanlitun area of Beijing, on or around Christmas Day. U.S. citizens are urged to exercise heightened vigilance. The U.S. Embassy has issued the same guidance to U.S. government personnel.
The State Department's Worldwide Travel Alert message remains in effect.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Contact the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, located at 55 An Jia Lou Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, by phone at (+86 10) 8531-4000, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or by email at BeijingACS@state.gov. For AFTER HOURS EMERGENCIES, call 8531-3000 to speak to the operator.
Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States or Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except federal holidays).
-
April 19, 2016
THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES IN GUANGZHOU IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE CONSULATE WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN CHINA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.
The U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou is hosting an American Town Hall on April 21st from 6:00PM to 8:00PM to engage with U.S. citizens residing in the Guangzhou area. U.S. Consul General Chuck Bennett will take questions from Americans about U.S.-China diplomatic relations, business and trade issues, and quality of life concerns for Americans overseas. Participants will also learn about the services we provide for Americans and the security and health environment in South China. They will also be treated to a U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard ceremony.
Representatives will be available to assist U.S. citizens with questions about voting, visas, facilitating trade, and other consulate services. In addition, medical professionals from the consulate and international medical clinics in Guangzhou will be answering participants’ questions about health issues.
No RSVP is required. Inquiries about the event can be directed to the American Citizen Services unit at GuangzhouACS@state.gov or to our WeChat account (WeChat ID: “GuangzhouACS”). Americans interested in participating should bring their U.S. passports to enter the Consulate. We look forward to seeing you on the 21st!
-
With peak travel season right around the corner, the Embassy would like to call your attention to the last worldwide caution message that the Department of State issued on March 3, 2016. We wanted to ensure that all U.S. citizens are well aware of the current worldwide travel environment. Please have a healthy and safe summer!
Worldwide Caution
LAST UPDATED: MARCH 3, 2016
The Department of State is updating the Worldwide Caution with information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world. Current information suggests that ISIL, al-Qa’ida, Boko Haram, al-Shabaab, and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks in multiple regions. Recent terrorist attacks, whether by those affiliated with terrorist entities, copycats, or individual perpetrators, serve as a reminder that U.S. citizens need to maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated July 29, 2015.
In August 2014, after the United States and regional partners commenced military action against ISIL, ISIL called on supporters to attack foreigners wherever they are. Authorities believe there is a continued likelihood of reprisal attacks against U.S., Western, and coalition partner interests throughout the world, especially in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Asia.
U.S. citizens continue to be at risk of kidnappings and hostage events as ISIL, al-Qa’ida, and their affiliates attempt to finance their operations through kidnapping-for-ransom operations. U.S. citizens have been kidnapped and murdered by members of terrorist and violent extremist groups. ISIL, al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), and al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) are particularly effective with kidnapping for ransom and are using ransom money to fund their activities.
Extremists may use conventional or non-conventional weapons and target both official and private interests. Examples of such targets include high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, shopping malls, and other tourist destinations both in the United States and abroad where U.S. citizens gather in large numbers, including during holidays. In the past year, major extremist attacks occurred in countries including Tunisia, France, Nigeria, Turkey, Egypt, and Mali.
U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure. Extremists have targeted and attempted attacks on subway and rail systems, aviation, and maritime services.
U.S. citizens considering maritime travel also should review information at the websites of the National Geospatial Agency, the Maritime Administration, and the U.S. Coast Guardfor information related tomaritime and port security globally. Current areas of concern include the Caribbean, Gulf of Guinea, Horn of Africa, and the Straits of Malacca and Singapore as a result of maritime crimes including smuggling, human trafficking, and piracy.
The information provided below offers select regional or country examples. Please check travel.state.gov for additional information.
EUROPE: Credible information indicates terrorist groups such as ISIL and al-Qa’ida and its affiliates continue to plot near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries remain vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.
European authorities continue to warn of the possibility of attacks conducted by lone individuals inspired by extremist organizations that could occur with little to no warning. Extremists have targeted large sporting events, theatres, open markets, aviation services, transportation systems, and public venues where people congregate. Authorities believe there is a high likelihood terror attacks in Europe will continue as European members of ISIL return from Syria and Iraq. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable.
Back to Top
MIDDLE EAST and NORTH AFRICA: Credible information indicates terrorist groups also seek to continue attacks against U.S. interests in the Middle East and North Africa. The U.S. government remains highly concerned about possible attacks against U.S. citizens, facilities, businesses, and perceived U.S. and Western interests. Private U.S. citizens are strongly discouraged from traveling to any country to join in armed conflict. U.S. citizens are reminded that fighting on behalf of or providing other forms of support to designated terrorist organizations, including ISIL, can constitute the provision of material support for terrorism, which is a serious crime that can result in penalties including prison time and large fines.
In Syria, the security situation remains dangerous and unpredictable as a civil war between government and armed anti-government groups continues throughout the country. Groups such as ISIL, al-Nusrah Front (ANF) and al-Qa’ida operate there. In recent years, Westerners have been kidnapped and several have been killed by terrorist groups in Syria.
U.S.-designated terrorist groups operating in Lebanon include Hizballah, ISIL, ANF, Hamas, and the Abdullah Azzam Brigades (AAB). U.S. citizens have been the target of terrorist attacks in Lebanon in the past, and the threat of anti-Western terrorist activity remains.
In Iraq, ISIL controls significant territory in northern, western, and central Iraq, and continues to attack Iraqi security forces and civilians in those areas.
In Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria, groups affiliated with ISIL, Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), and other terrorist groups have conducted attacks against both foreign and local targets.
In Yemen, the security situation has deteriorated greatly since 2014, necessitating the suspension of operations of the U.S. Embassy in February 2015. Al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and ISIL remain threats to U.S. citizens in Yemen.
Back to Top
AFRICA: Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and al-Murabitun remain active in northern Mali and Niger, and recently conducted major attacks in Mali and Burkina Faso in which U.S. citizens were killed. Terrorist groups have stepped up their rhetoric, calling for additional attacks or kidnapping attempts on Westerners and others, particularly those linked to support for international military intervention.
The terrorist group AQIM has declared its intention to attack Western targets in the Sahel (an area that stretches across the African continent between the Atlantic Ocean and the Red Sea to include Senegal, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad, Sudan, and Eritrea). It has claimed responsibility for kidnappings, attempted kidnappings, and the murder of several Westerners throughout the region.
Al-Shabaab assassinations, suicide bombings, hostage taking, and indiscriminate attacks in civilian-populated areas are frequent in Somalia. Al-Shabaab retains its demonstrated capability to carry out attacks in government-controlled territory in Somalia and in neighboring countries such as Kenya and Djibouti.
Boko Haram, an extremist group based in northeast Nigeria, has claimed responsibility for dozens of attacks, mainly in northern Nigeria. Boko Haram also has targeted women and children for kidnapping, reportedly kidnapping women in northern states for marriage as “slave brides.” Boko Haram has carried out attacks in Cameroon’s Far North Region, western Chad, and southern Niger, targeting foreign expatriates, tourists, and government leaders.
Back to Top
SOUTH ASIA: The U.S. government assesses terrorist groups in South Asia may be planning attacks in the region, possibly against U.S. facilities, citizens, and interests. The presence of al-Qa’ida, Taliban elements, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, indigenous sectarian groups, and other terrorist organizations, many of which are on the U.S. government's list of designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations, poses a potential danger to U.S. citizens in the region.
Although the Government of Pakistan maintains heightened security measures, particularly in the major cities, terrorist attacks have occurred against civilian, government, and foreign targets. Attacks have included armed assaults on heavily guarded sites, including Pakistani military installations and airports. Terrorists and criminal groups also have resorted to kidnapping for ransom.
No province in Afghanistan should be considered immune from violence and crime, and the strong possibility exists throughout the country for hostile acts, either targeted or random, against U.S. and other foreign nationals at any time. Taliban and other extremist organizations remain active in every province of the country and frequently target both Afghan government and foreign interests.
India continues to experience terrorist and insurgent activities which may affect U.S. citizens directly or indirectly. Anti-Western terrorist groups active in India include Islamist extremist groups such as Harkat-ul-Jihad-i-Islami, Harakat ul-Mujahidin, Indian Mujahideen, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Lashkar-e Tayyiba. Past attacks have targeted public places, including some frequented by Westerners, such as luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas.
Since September 2015, Bangladesh has experienced a series of increasingly sophisticated violent attacks. These include the murders of two foreign nationals, as well as bombs and other attacks against gatherings of religious groups and security forces. ISIL publicly claimed credit for many of these attacks. Additionally, groups claiming to represent al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) asserted responsibility for a series of threats and terrorist attacks targeting writers, publishers, and others in the media, including the murder of a U.S. citizen blogger.
Back to Top
CENTRAL ASIA: Supporters of terrorist groups such as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, al-Qa’ida, and the Islamic Jihad Union remain active in Central Asia. These groups have expressed anti-U.S. sentiments and may attempt to target U.S. government interests.
Back to Top
EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC: Information from credible sources suggests that there is a continued risk of armed terrorist and criminal groups operating and planning attacks against foreigners, including U.S. citizens, in the East Asian and Pacific region. Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and the Abu Sayyaf Group, have cells operating throughout Southeast Asia and JI is linked to al-Qa’ida and other regional terrorist groups.
There is a risk of travel to the southern Philippines, specifically related to kidnapping threats in the Sulu Archipelago and the ongoing threat of violence on the island of Mindanao, particularly in Central Mindanao. Foreigners in the Eastern Sabah province of Malaysia are also targets for kidnappings for ransom. Criminal or terrorist bands may attempt to intercept boats ferrying tourists in the area as well.
Indonesian counterterrorism efforts have prevented terrorists from conducting large-scale attacks in recent years. The January 14, 2016, attack in central Jakarta, however, shows that extremists in Indonesia still have the ability to carry out small-scale violent attacks.
U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert. These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Back to Top
For further information:
See the Department of State's travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
The Department of State’s Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) provides several resources to enhance the safety and security of the U.S. private sector abroad. Additional information on OSAC can be found on OSAC.gov or by following OSAC on Twitter.
Mariners should also review information at the websites of the National Geospatial Agency, the Maritime Administration, and the U.S. Coast Guard for information related to maritime and port security globally.
-
The State Department strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid all travel to North Korea due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention under North Korea’s system of law enforcement, which imposes unduly harsh sentences, including for actions that in the United States would not be considered crimes.
This notice replaces the Travel Warning dated November 20, 2015.
At least 14 U.S. citizens have been detained in the DPRK in the past ten years. North Korea has detained those who traveled independently and those who were part of organized tours. Being a member of a group tour or using a tour guide will not prevent North Korean authorities from detaining or arresting you. Efforts by private tour operators to prevent or resolve past detentions of U.S. citizens in the DPRK have not been successful.
If you decide to enter North Korea against the advice of this Travel Warning, you should have no expectation of privacy. All electronic and multimedia devices including USB drives, CDs, DVDs, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, Internet browsing histories and cookies are subject to search for banned content.
If DPRK authorities permit you to keep your mobile phone when you enter the country, it will not function unless you use the DPRK mobile service, which will enable DPRK authorities to monitor your calls. GPS-trackers and satellite phones are not allowed.
Possession of any media, either physical or electronic, criticizing the DPRK government or its leaders is considered a criminal act punishable by long-term detention in hard labor camps and heavy fines.
In North Korea, the following – whether done knowingly or unknowingly – have been treated as crimes:
Showing disrespect to the country’s former leaders, Kim Il Sung or Kim Jong Il, or for the country’s current leader, Kim Jong Un, including but not limited to tampering with or mishandling materials bearing their names or images;
Entering North Korea without proper travel documentation;
Possessing material that is in any way critical of the DPRK government;
Proselytizing or carrying out religious activities, including activities that may be construed as such, like leaving behind religious materials;
Engaging in unsanctioned political activities;
Traveling without authorization, even for short distances;
Having unauthorized interaction with the local population;
Exchanging currency with an unauthorized vendor;
Taking unauthorized photographs;
Bringing pornography into the country;
Shopping at stores not designated for foreigners; and
Removing or tampering with political slogans and signs or pictures of political leaders.
Numerous foreigners have been held in North Korea for extended periods of time without being formally charged with any crimes. Detained foreigners have been questioned daily for several weeks without the presence of counsel and have been compelled to make public statements and take part in public trials.
Since the United States does not maintain diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea, the U.S. government has no means to provide normal consular services to U.S. citizens in North Korea. The Embassy of Sweden in the North Korean capital of Pyongyang is the Protecting Power for U.S. citizens in the DPRK and provides limited consular services to U.S. citizens traveling in North Korea who require emergency assistance.
The U.S.-DPRK Interim Consular Agreement stipulates that North Korea will notify the Embassy of Sweden within four days of an arrest or detention of a U.S. citizen and will allow consular visits by the Swedish Embassy within two days after a request is made. However, the DPRK government routinely delays or denies consular access.
The DPRK remains one of the most heavily sanctioned countries in the world. U.S. citizens traveling to North Korea should familiarize themselves with all applicable sanctions relating to the country, particularly U.S. sanctions on the DPRK. To learn more about U.S. sanctions on the DPRK, see the Federal Register.
The State Department remains deeply concerned about the DPRK’s ongoing, systematic, and widespread human rights violations. To learn more about North Korea’s deplorable human rights situation, see the DPRK Country Report on Human Rights Practices for 2015.
The United States and the United Nations Security Council have expressed grave concern regarding North Korea’s recent nuclear tests, ballistic missile launches, and other activities prohibited by United Nations Security Council Resolutions. UN Security Council statements from January 2016 and March 2016 are posted on the UN website.
As a result of concerns arising from unannounced missile launch activities and GPS navigation systems interference and/or disruption, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Prohibition and Advisory notice to U.S. airmen and operators. The FAA has issued Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) 79 which prohibits U.S. civil aviation from flying in the Pyongyang Flight Information Region (FIR) (ZKKP) west of 132 degrees east longitude, and the FAA has advised those flying in and around the Pyongyang FIR (ZKKP) east of 132 degrees east longitude to be aware of possible GPS interruptions. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.
For further information:
See the State Department's travel website at travel.state.gov for current Worldwide Cautions, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information for North Korea.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important safety and security messages via email (though you may not have access to email while in North Korea). Enrollment also makes it easier to locate you in case of an emergency.
U.S. citizens who plan to travel to North Korea are strongly encouraged to inform the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China by enrolling in STEP. U.S. citizens residing in China can contact the U.S. Embassy directly. The Embassy is located next to the Ladies’ Street (Nuren Jie) and Laitai Flower Market, near the Kempinski Hotel and Lufthansa Shopping Center on Tianze Road near the Liangmaqiao subway stop:
U.S. Embassy in Beijing
American Citizens Services Unit
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District
Beijing, China 100600
Telephone: (86-10) 8531-4000
Email: BeijingACS@state.gov
Emergency after-hours number for U.S. citizens: (86-10) 8531-4000
U.S. citizens traveling to North Korea are also strongly encouraged to contact the Embassy of Sweden by telephone or email prior to travel. Please provide the Embassy of Sweden with your name, date of birth, dates of your trip, and emergency contact information:
The Embassy of Sweden Pyongyang (U.S. Protecting Power in North Korea)
Munsu-Dong District
Pyongyang, DPRK
Telephone: (850-2) 3817 485 (reception)
Telephone: (850-2) 3817 904, (850-2) 3817 907 (Deputy)
Telephone: (850-2) 3817 908, (850-2) 3817 905 (Amb.)
Facsimile: (850-2) 3817 663
Email: ambassaden.pyongyang@gov.se
If you provide information to the U.S. Embassy in Beijing or the Swedish Embassy in Pyongyang, officials will be able to locate you more easily in an emergency. Take note of and keep the contact details for the Swedish embassy for easy access in case of an emergency.
U.S. citizens can obtain current information on safety and security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
-
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will host a webinar on “Overseas Filing for U.S. Taxpayers” on May 25, 2016, from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. EDT. To register and attend this webinar, use the Overseas Filing for U.S. Taxpayers webinar link. Attendees should log in 10 minutes prior to the start time. The session will be recorded and made available at a later time on IRSvideos.gov.
http://www.irsvideos.gov/
-
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens in China that on Sunday, June 12 there was a minor explosion at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. U.S. authorities have been in touch with Chinese authorities, who stated no Americans were affected and that the airport is open for business. The cause of the incident has not been officially reported. The U.S. Embassy has no information indicating this was an incident directed at U.S. citizens and is unaware of any specific security threats against U.S. citizens in China at this time.
The Department of State's Worldwide Caution remains in effect. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, located at 55 An Jia Lou Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, by phone at (+86 10) 8531-4000, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or by email at BeijingACS@State.gov. For AFTER HOUR EMERGENCIES, call 8531-3000 to speak to the operator. Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States or Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except federal holidays).
-
Celebrate democracy this 4th of July by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2016 U.S. elections!
In order to vote in the November 2016 elections, all overseas U.S. citizens need to have completed a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) in 2016. Whether you are a first-time voter or have already received ballots and voted absentee in past elections, you must complete an FPCA each year to participate in elections as an overseas absentee voter.
If you would like to drop off your completed Federal Post Card Application over the 4th of July holiday week for delivery to the United States via diplomatic pouch free of charge, the U.S. Embassy/Consulates in China provides the following details about voter assistance and abiliity to accept Federal Post Card Applications.
Beijing: You may drop off postage included and postmarked FPCAs and/or ballots at the ACS section of the U.S. Embassy during the hours descirbed below. Bring your passport for identification and please inform the guards you are an American citizen dropping off a ballot. Normal transit time from Beijing to the United States is 2-3 weeks.
Chengdu: FPCA post cards and ballots can be dropped off at the U.S. Consulate’s American Citizen Services section without an appointment on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between 1:00 and 4:00. To prevent delays related to security screening of mail, do not close and seal any documents or envelopes until you are in front of a consulate employee. If you require additional information or assistance in completing forms, please make an appointment beforehand. Transit time for materials sent from Chengdu to the United States can be up to 30 days.
Guangzhou: Federal Post Card Applications (FPCA) for voter registration as well as voted ballots can be dropped off at the U.S. Consulate without an appointment Monday – Friday, between 7 am and 7 pm, excluding American and Chinese holidays. Please bring them to the side entrance located on Huajiu Rd (not the main entrance). While you’re here, you may drop off FPCAs and ballots for other voters as well. If you have any questions about how to get registered to vote or voting overseas feel free to reach out to GuangzhouACS@state.gov and we’ll be happy to assist.
Shanghai: You may drop off postage included and postmarked FPCAs and/or ballots at the ACS section on the 8th floor of the Westgate Mall, Shanghai between during the business hours specified below. Bring your passport for identification and please inform the guards you are dropping off a ballot. Normal transit time from Shanghai to the United States is 3-4 weeks.
Shenyang: Voters who wish to drop off their postage-paid forms or ballots may do so at the U.S. Consulate General Shenyang, No. 52, 14 Wei Road, Heping District. The ballot box is located inside the front gate, at the guard booth. The ballot box is accessible from 8 am – 5 pm Monday through Friday, except on U.S. and Chinese holidays. You do not need to make an appointment or enter the Consulate building to drop off your voter registration or ballot. Forms and ballots will generally be posted within one week. Normal transit time from Shenyang to the United States is approximately 14 days. Please direct any questions to ShenyangACS@state.gov, or to 86 (24) 2335-5188.
You can always get voting assistance from the embassy/consulate or drop off your completed voting forms and ballots, addressed to your local election officials, during the following hours:
Beijing: 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday. On Wednesday and Thursday, we are only open 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. We are closed Thursday afternoons except for passport pickup and emergency situations.
Chengdu: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Guangzhou: Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 11:30 am & 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, excluding U.S. and Chinese holidays.
Shanghai: Monday to Friday, 8:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Shenyang: Monday and Thursday afternoons between the hours of 2:30 and 4:00pm, except for holidays.
If you have never voted while overseas before, the process is easy ¬-- just follow these steps:
1. Request Your Ballot: Complete a new Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). You must complete a new FPCA after January 1, 2016 to ensure you receive your ballot for the 2016 elections. The completion of the FPCAallows you to request absentee ballots for all elections for federal offices (President, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House of Representatives) including primaries and special elections during the calendar year in which it is submitted. The FPCA is accepted by all local election officials in all U.S. states and territories.
You can complete the FPCA online at FVAP.gov. The online voting assistant will ask you questions specific to your state. We encourage you to ask your local election officials to deliver your blank ballots to you electronically (by email, internet download, or fax, depending on your state). Include your email address on your FPCA to take advantage of the electronic ballot delivery option. Return the FPCA per the instructions on the website. FVAP.gov will tell you if your state allows the FPCA to be returned electronically or if you must submit a paper copy with original signature. If you must return a paper version, please see below for mailing options.
2. Receive and Complete Your Ballot: States are required to send out ballots 45 days before a regular election for federal office and states generally send out ballots at least 30 days before primary elections. For most states, you can confirm your registration and ballot delivery online.
3. Return Your Completed Ballot: Some states allow you to return your completed ballot electronically and others do not. If your state requires you to return paper voting forms or ballots to local election officials, you can do so free of charge at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Place your ballots in postage paid return envelopes or in envelopes bearing sufficient domestic U.S. postage, and address them to the relevant local election officials.
Researching the Candidates and Issues: Online Resources. Check out the FVAP links page for helpful resources that will aid your research of candidates and issues. Non-partisan information about candidates, their voting records, and their positions on issues are widely available and easy to obtain on-line. You can also read national and hometown newspapers on-line, or search the internet to locate articles and information. For information about election dates and deadlines, subscribe to FVAP's Voting Alerts (vote@fvap.gov). FVAP also shares Voting Alerts via Facebook and Twitter.
Learn more at the Federal Voting Assistance Program's (FVAP) website, FVAP.gov. If you have any questions about registering to vote overseas, please contact the Embassy or Consulate General via email:
Beijing: BeijingACS@state.gov
Chengdu: AmcitChengdu@state.gov
Guangzhou: GuangzhouACS@state.gov
Shanghai: ShanghaiACS@state.gov
Shenyang: ShenyangACS@state.gov
Remember, your vote counts!
-
August 1, 2016
THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES IN GUANGZHOU IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE CONSULATE WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN CHINA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.
The U.S. Consulate General advises all U.S. citizens that local authorities are forecasting that Typhoon Nida will impact South China the evening of Monday (August 1) through Wednesday (August 3). Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly and may include strong winds, heavy rains, and flooding in low-lying areas. All U.S. citizens are encouraged to monitor local news media and the China Meteorological Administration website. You can also find more information on typhoon preparation on the U.S. Department of State website.
If you require assistance, please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou, located at 43 Huajiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China 510623. The Consulate is open 8:30 to 12:30 and 1:30 to 5:00 on normal working days. You can contact the American Citizens Services Unit at +86 20 3814 5775 or by email at GuangzhouACS@state.gov. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance after hours, the emergency number for the U.S. Consulate General is +86 10 8531 4000.
-
October 20, 2016
THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES IN GUANGZHOU IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE CONSULATE WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN CHINA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.
The U.S. Consulate General advises all U.S. citizens that local authorities are forecasting that Typhoon Haima will impact South China, particularly Guangdong and Fujian provinces, the morning of Friday (October 21) through late Saturday evening (October 22). Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly and may include maximum sustained winds of at least 90 mph with gusts up to 120 mph, heavy rains, and flooding in low-lying areas.
All U.S. citizens living in or traveling to the area should monitor local news media, the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), and the Hong Kong Observatory Typhoon tracking website while following directions from local officials and taking other appropriate actions as needed.
For further information about security in China:
See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and China Country Specific Information.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler-Enrollment Program (STEP) and add our WeChat account GuangzhouACS to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Contact the U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou, located at 43 Huajiu Rd, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China 510623, at +86 20 3814 5775 or by email at GuangzhouACS@state.gov, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday (except U.S. and Chinese holidays). If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance after hours, the emergency number for the U.S. Consulate General is +86 10 8531 4000.
Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
-
We have a bit of a windy day here.
No rain as yet.
The trees are bending.
Rubbish is flying around.
But none of this is stopping the motorcyclist from riding with umbrellas up!!!!
Willy
-
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Holiday Travel Advisory
In the lead up to the holiday season, the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and the Consulates General throughout China remind U.S. citizens in China to remain vigilant to the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests around the world.
The Department of State recently issued an updated Travel Alert for Europe advising U.S. citizens to exercise caution during festivals, events, and outdoor markets. The Department also has in effect a worldwide caution, alerting U.S. citizens to the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world.
As you plan your travels and holiday activities, check the State Department's travel website for the latest Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts, as well as useful Country Specific Information.
Enroll your trip in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
From everyone at the Embassy and the Consulates General, happy holidays and safe travels!
Please see our website for additional information and contact information for the Embassy or the Consulates General nearest you.
-
Message for U.S. Citizens:
January 11, 2017
The U.S. Consulate General advises all U.S. citizens that the Consulate regularly posts important messages for Americans on the Consulate’s website in addition to sending urgent messages via email and WeChat.
The Consulate’s webpage is located at http://guangzhou.usembassy-china.org.cn. To view these messages, navigate to the U.S. Citizen Services page via the menu at the top of the page, then click on Important Notices in the sidebar. A direct link to these messages is available here.
We encourage all Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and to add our WeChat account GuangzhouACS to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES IN GUANGZHOU IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE CONSULATE WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN CHINA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.
-
Security Alert
According to press reports, at approximately 3:30 pm on January 18, a small explosive device was detonated on a public bus in the Nanhai district of Foshan, injuring four people. A second device was detonated approximately 30 minutes later on another bus in Foshan, injuring two. Police have apprehended a suspect, who has confessed to carrying out the two incidents, but no motive has been provided. Local police continue to investigate but verifiable official details are very limited at this time.
While these attacks did not specifically target U.S. citizens or foreigners, these types of incidents do pose a random threat to foreigners who may be in the area when they occur.
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou would like to take this opportunity to remind all U.S. citizens to practice increased personal security awareness, particularly when visiting popular tourist locations or transiting through major transportation hubs. U.S. citizens are advised to remain aware of their surroundings; pay attention to your belongings, those around you, any items that might be out of place and anyone whose behavior is suspicious, to include sweating profusely, avoiding eye contact, trembling/shaking body or hands, or is avoiding areas with police presence/checkpoints. If you notice anyone exhibiting any of these behaviors or anything else suspicious, you should notify the local police immediately.
For further information:
· See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and China Specific Information.
· Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
· The U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou is located at 43 Hua Jiu Road, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China 510623 and is open from 8:00 a.m. to12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and can be reached at (86)(20) 3814-5775. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance outside of business hours, the emergency number for the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou is (86)(010) 8531-4000.
· Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
-
I have to check out the US Embassy, Beijing website to see if there are any 'dirty air' warnings.
I use the 'air quality' apps I downloaded from Google Play Store but I think the casual China visitor would
be annoyed on their China arrival if the air looked like pea green soup much less inhaling the toxic stew.
In my opinion, Chinese cities are relatively free of crime, terrorism.. that sort of thing, maybe
a few con artists, of which, can be anywhere, in any major city in the world, but the air quality is sometimes suspect.
-
March 28, 2017
THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES IN GUANGZHOU IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN CHINA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.
The U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou is hosting an American Town Hall on March 30th from 6:00PM to 8:00PM to engage with U.S. citizens residing in the Guangdong area. U.S. Consul General Chuck Bennett will take questions from Americans about U.S.-China diplomatic relations, business and trade issues, and quality of life concerns for Americans overseas. Participants will also learn about the services we provide for Americans and the security and health environment in South China. They will also be treated to a U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard ceremony.
Representatives will be available to assist U.S. citizens with questions about visas, facilitating trade, and other consulate services. In addition, medical professionals from the consulate and international medical clinics in Guangzhou will be answering participants’ questions about health issues.
No RSVP is required but is welcome, along with your inquiries about the event, at GuangzhouACS@state.gov or at our WeChat account (WeChat ID: “GuangzhouACS”). Americans interested in participating should bring their U.S. passports to enter the Consulate. We look forward to seeing you on the 30th!
Please note: All electronics except cell phones are not permitted within the Consulate. Cell phones cannot be used for photography or video recording.
-
Gerry, all is good with your updates.
Maybe you can answer a simple question.
Assuming I visit the consulate. Will my wife,
a Chinese national, be able to accompany me?
I suppose I could ask the consulate, but maybe
you know the answer of the open- house visit.
much thanks for your answer.
-
No. She can wait inside but is not allowed past security.
I am speaking of the old location which was a leased building with a large lobby and businesses on the first floor.
I have not been to the newest location so I cant say for sure. They have a waiting room but I dont know how big or how busy it is. But there ae a dozen restaurants near by for her to wait for you. phone number is 86 203 814 5775
-
Considerations for Older Travelers As an increasing number of older U.S. citizens are traveling abroad, the U.S. Department of State wants you to be prepared so you can enjoy your trip. Please consider the information when planning your trip.
Travel Documents - Make sure your travel documents – passports and/or passport cards are valid and have not expired.
- Check to see if there is a Travel Warning (https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html) or Travel Alert (https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html) for your destination.
- Check our Country Information (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html) to determine if:
- you need a visa;
- you have enough blank pages in your passport for entry stamps;
- your passport will be valid six months beyond the end of your trip, or some countries maynot let you enter.
Stay Connected - Enroll in our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (https://step.state.gov/step/). Your information is stored securely and enables the Department of State, U.S. embassy, or U.S. consulate to contact you, your family, or your friends in an emergency according to your wishes.
- Provide a copy of your itinerary, including contact information for where you will be staying to a friend or family.
- Manage expectations – if you don’t plan to stay in touch on your vacation, let your family know you will not be in regular contact.
- Not all cell phones work abroad. If you want to have a cell phone with you as you travel you will need to check your cell phone coverage before you travel.
Health Information - Medical care in foreign countries varies and is often not up to U.S. standards.
- Medicare does not cover you overseas.
- We highly recommend that you obtain medical and dental health care that will cover you overseas.
- We also recommend insurance.
- Consider obtaining an advance healthcare directive before you travel but note that not all countries recognize them.
- For more tips related to health issues, visit our website (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/health.html). You may also find health information at the Travelers’ Health page of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website (http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/).
Pharmacies and Medications
- Bring an ample supply of medication to cover you for your trip and if possible, for a few extra days in case there are delays.
- Have information from your doctor regarding your condition and your medication.
- To avoid questions or delays at customs or immigration, keep medications in their original, labeled containers.
- Know the generic name for your medication as those generic names may be more recognizable at pharmacies in a foreign country.
Financial Information
- Determine whether you should try to exchange currency before you travel abroad.
- Understand the currency rates at your travel destination.
- Know whether or not credit cards are readily accepted and if traveler’s checks can be cashed and plan accordingly.
- Make sure your credit card company knows you will be traveling abroad so they do not freeze your accounts.
- Read the Crime section of the Country Information (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html) for the countries you will visit to review the ATM scams and other financial scams that may be targeting foreign visitors. If ATM service is not widely available or is not secure, bring travelers checks and one or two major credit cards instead of planning to use cash. Many banks in most countries will issue cash advances from major credit cards.
Accessibility and Accommodations - For more information, check our section on Traveling with Disabilities (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/disabilities.html). Beware of Scams
Beware of Scams - Scammers intend to get money from their victims by making the victims believe they will gain something of great personal value (financial gain, a romantic relationship, helping someone in trouble, the safe return of a friend, etc.).
- Scammers operate primarily via the Internet, email, and phone. For more information, please review our information on International Financial Scams (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/emergencies/scams.html).
Prepare for Emergencies
- Leave emergency contact information and a copy of your passport biographic data page with family and trusted friends.
- Carry emergency contact information for your family in the United States with you when you travel (be sure to also pencil it in the emergency contact information section of your passport).
- Know the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, available on the Country Information (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html) page for each country and on each embassy or consulate’s website (http://www.usembassy.gov/), and provide that information to your family and friends.
- If there is an emergency situation where you are staying, such as civil unrest, disrupted transportation, or a natural disaster, prevent undue worry or concern by contacting your family and friends as soon as possible.
- A secure way to maintain your emergency contact information is to enroll with our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (https://step.state.gov/step/).
- Take careful note of the cancellation policies for your travel and consider purchasing travel and luggage insurance. Many credit card, travel, and tourism companies offer protection packages for an additional fee.
-
Relieve yourself of all this and the worry of making sure you have done everything and follow my advice and STAY AT HOME. Ha Ha LOL
Willie
Considerations for Older Travelers As an increasing number of older U.S. citizens are traveling abroad, the U.S. Department of State wants you to be prepared so you can enjoy your trip. Please consider the information when planning your trip.
Travel Documents - Make sure your travel documents – passports and/or passport cards are valid and have not expired.
- Check to see if there is a Travel Warning (https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html) or Travel Alert (https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html) for your destination.
- Check our Country Information (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html) to determine if:
- you need a visa;
- you have enough blank pages in your passport for entry stamps;
- your passport will be valid six months beyond the end of your trip, or some countries maynot let you enter.
Stay Connected - Enroll in our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (https://step.state.gov/step/). Your information is stored securely and enables the Department of State, U.S. embassy, or U.S. consulate to contact you, your family, or your friends in an emergency according to your wishes.
- Provide a copy of your itinerary, including contact information for where you will be staying to a friend or family.
- Manage expectations – if you don’t plan to stay in touch on your vacation, let your family know you will not be in regular contact.
- Not all cell phones work abroad. If you want to have a cell phone with you as you travel you will need to check your cell phone coverage before you travel.
Health Information - Medical care in foreign countries varies and is often not up to U.S. standards.
- Medicare does not cover you overseas.
- We highly recommend that you obtain medical and dental health care that will cover you overseas.
- We also recommend insurance.
- Consider obtaining an advance healthcare directive before you travel but note that not all countries recognize them.
- For more tips related to health issues, visit our website (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/health.html). You may also find health information at the Travelers’ Health page of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website (http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/).
Pharmacies and Medications
- Bring an ample supply of medication to cover you for your trip and if possible, for a few extra days in case there are delays.
- Have information from your doctor regarding your condition and your medication.
- To avoid questions or delays at customs or immigration, keep medications in their original, labeled containers.
- Know the generic name for your medication as those generic names may be more recognizable at pharmacies in a foreign country.
Financial Information
- Determine whether you should try to exchange currency before you travel abroad.
- Understand the currency rates at your travel destination.
- Know whether or not credit cards are readily accepted and if traveler’s checks can be cashed and plan accordingly.
- Make sure your credit card company knows you will be traveling abroad so they do not freeze your accounts.
- Read the Crime section of the Country Information (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html) for the countries you will visit to review the ATM scams and other financial scams that may be targeting foreign visitors. If ATM service is not widely available or is not secure, bring travelers checks and one or two major credit cards instead of planning to use cash. Many banks in most countries will issue cash advances from major credit cards.
Accessibility and Accommodations - For more information, check our section on Traveling with Disabilities (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/disabilities.html). Beware of Scams
Beware of Scams - Scammers intend to get money from their victims by making the victims believe they will gain something of great personal value (financial gain, a romantic relationship, helping someone in trouble, the safe return of a friend, etc.).
- Scammers operate primarily via the Internet, email, and phone. For more information, please review our information on International Financial Scams (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/emergencies/scams.html).
Prepare for Emergencies
- Leave emergency contact information and a copy of your passport biographic data page with family and trusted friends.
- Carry emergency contact information for your family in the United States with you when you travel (be sure to also pencil it in the emergency contact information section of your passport).
- Know the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, available on the Country Information (http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html) page for each country and on each embassy or consulate’s website (http://www.usembassy.gov/), and provide that information to your family and friends.
- If there is an emergency situation where you are staying, such as civil unrest, disrupted transportation, or a natural disaster, prevent undue worry or concern by contacting your family and friends as soon as possible.
- A secure way to maintain your emergency contact information is to enroll with our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (https://step.state.gov/step/).
- Take careful note of the cancellation policies for your travel and consider purchasing travel and luggage insurance. Many credit card, travel, and tourism companies offer protection packages for an additional fee.
-
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has consolidated its overseas operations into several regional offices that provide a full range of SSA services for U.S. citizens residing outside of the United States. Effective October 1, 2017, individuals residing in the People's Republic of China who require social security services or have questions about SSA benefits must contact the SSA Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) located in the Philippines, rather than China.
-
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has consolidated its overseas operations into several regional offices that provide a full range of SSA services for U.S. citizens residing outside of the United States. Effective October 1, 2017, individuals residing in the People's Republic of China who require social security services or have questions about SSA benefits must contact the SSA Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) located in the Philippines, rather than China.
Personal visits not essential.
Willy
-
Message for U.S. Citizens:
23 OCT 2017
THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES IN GUANGZHOU IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE CONSULATE WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN CHINA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.
Taxis are typically a safe means of transportation in China. However, recently there has been an increase in reports of some taxi drivers attempting to charge inflated fares for relatively inexpensive trips, in some cases resulting in verbal or physical confrontations when customers refused to pay these fares. When using taxis, please avoid any altercations with the driver. Rather, attempt to remove yourself from the situation. If a driver refuses to use the meter, take another taxi. Should you feel threatened, please make note of the driver’s name and license number and report the incident to the taxi company and/or police. Likewise, avoid unlicensed cabs.
Whom to Contact
If you are a victim of a confrontation with a taxi driver, call the local police at “110” which is roughly equivalent to “911” in the United States. Be aware, however, that very few English speakers staff this hotline. Or you can file a complaint by calling the Mayor hotline at 12345 (press option 3 for English). The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General have no law enforcement authority in China.
For Further Information
· Visit Country Information for Chinafor additional travel & transportation safety tips (for pedestrians and drivers) for China
· Find useful tips on packing and planning with our Traveler's Checklist
· See our webpage on Help for U.S. Victims of Crime Overseas
-
With the holiday travel season upon us, the Embassy would like to call your attention to the most recent worldwide caution message that the Department of State issued on Decemeber 11, 2017. We want to ensure that all U.S. citizens are well aware of the current worldwide travel environment. Please have a healthy and safe holiday season!
As part of the Department of State's continuous efforts to provide U.S. citizens traveling abroad with information about safety and security events, we are updating the Worldwide Caution with information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions, political violence, and criminal activity against U.S. citizens and interests abroad. This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated September 14, 2017.
As terrorist attacks, political upheaval, and violence often take place without any warning, U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness when traveling. To better prepare for possible emergencies, U.S. citizens are encouraged to read Country Specific Information pages, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts on travel.state.gov before planning a trip.
In addition to concerns stemming from terrorism, travelers should be alert to the possibility of political unrest, violence, demonstrations, and criminal activities when traveling. Country-specific information pages and Travel Warnings should be consulted to obtain the latest data on such threats.
Travelers are urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. The Department uses these security messages to convey information about terrorist threats, security incidents, planned demonstrations, natural disasters, etc. In an emergency, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate or call the following numbers: 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.
U.S. government facilities worldwide remain in a heightened state of alert. These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Terrorist groups including ISIS, al-Qa'ida, their associates, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens wherever they are. Extremists may use conventional or non-conventional weapons to target U.S. government and private interests. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack to more effectively target crowds, including the use of edged weapons, pistols, and vehicles as weapons. Extremists increasingly aim to assault "soft" targets, such as:
· high-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
· hotels, clubs, and restaurants
· places of worship
· schools
· parks
· shopping malls and markets
· tourism infrastructure
· public transportation systems
· airports
In multiple regions, terrorists, guerrilla groups, and criminals seek to kidnap U.S. citizens to finance their operations or for political purposes. The Department also remains concerned that terrorists could again seek to down aircraft using concealed explosives or hijack commercial flights
Private U.S. citizens should not travel to any country to participate in armed conflict. U.S. citizens are reminded that fighting on behalf of or providing other forms of support to designated terrorist organizations can constitute the provision of material support for terrorism, which is a serious crime that can result in penalties, including prison time and large fines.
Below, we provide information specific to different regions and countries. Please consult travel.state.govfor additional information.
AFRICA: There are terrorist, guerilla, and insurgent groups in some parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, and the potential for al-Qa'ida or ISIS-inspired attacks is high in several West African countries and countries bordering Somalia. These groups have been known to take hostages, kill civilians, and deliberately target Westerners on occasion. There is political instability and civil unrest in some African countries. Under these conditions, the level of consular assistance available to U.S. citizens may be limited.
If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:
BURKINA FASO
BURUNDI
CAMEROON
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
CHAD
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
ERITREA
ETHIOPIA
KENYA
MALI
MAURITANIA
NIGER
NIGERIA
SOMALIA
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN
SUDAN
EAST ASIA and PACIFIC: Armed terrorist and criminal groups are operating in the East Asian and Pacific region and may attempt to target U.S. citizens, particularly for kidnapping in the coastal areas and outlying islands of the eastern part of the Malaysian state of Sabah and the southern Philippines. Indonesia has witnessed an increase in terrorist-related arrests and foiled plots, and several small-scale attacks and attempted attacks have occurred. Periodic acts of violence in Thailand remain a concern. U.S. citizens are strongly warned to avoid all travel to North Korea/the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention under North Korea's system of law enforcement. A travel restriction on the use of U.S. passports to travel to, in, or from North Korea became effective in early September 2017.
If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:
NORTH KOREA
PHILIPPINES
EUROPE: Terrorist groups continue to plot attacks in Europe as foreign fighters return home from Syria and Iraq, while other individuals may be radicalized or inspired by ISIS propaganda. European authorities continue to warn of additional attacks on major events, tourist sites, restaurants, commercial centers, places of worship, and the transportation sector, frequently prompting heightened security at notable public venues and coordinated counterterrorism operations.
If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:
TURKEY
UKRAINE
MIDDLE EAST and NORTH AFRICA: Terrorist groups are very active in the Middle East and North Africa. The U.S. government remains highly concerned about possible attacks against U.S. citizens, facilities, businesses, and perceived U.S. and Western interests in the region. Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Libya are considered violent and unpredictable war zones, and there is no official U.S. diplomatic presence in the latter three countries. U.S. citizens should avoid these areas. Terrorist groups have demonstrated capability to conduct attacks throughout the region, posing both a direct and indirect threat to U.S. citizens. Government officials throughout the region are concerned about the potential return of foreign fighters following ISIS's territorial losses in Iraq, Syria, and Libya.
If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:
ALGERIA
EGYPT
IRAN
IRAQ
ISRAEL, THE WEST BANK, AND GAZA
JORDAN
LEBANON
LIBYA
SAUDI ARABIA
SYRIA
TUNISIA
YEMEN
SOUTH and CENTRAL ASIA: The U.S. government assesses terrorist groups in South Asia may be planning attacks in the region, possibly against U.S. facilities, citizens, and interests. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Afghanistan, as no region in the country is immune from violence. A number of established terrorist organizations, indigenous sectarian groups, and other militants pose a danger to U.S. citizens in Pakistan. Extremist elements are also active in India, as outlined in a recent emergency message. Terrorists have hit a wide variety of targets and institutions in Bangladesh.
If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:
AFGHANISTAN
BANGLADESH
PAKISTAN
WESTERN HEMISPHERE: Insurgent groups, armed criminal gangs, and indigenous terrorists remain active in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada. U.S. citizens are particularly vulnerable to kidnap-for-ransom attempts and violent crimes of opportunity while visiting a variety of countries. Gang- and narcotics-related violence is of concern in several countries throughout the region. Political protests are common throughout the region, and in some countries they can devolve into violence. Haiti is particularly vulnerable to violent political protest activity, some of which has directly targeted U.S. interests. Venezuela's current political crisis has turned violent on numerous occasions in 2017, including near-daily protests between April and August that have cost more than 100 people their lives.
If you are planning to travel to any of the following countries, please read our advisories carefully:
COLOMBIA
EL SALVADOR
HAITI
HONDURAS
MEXICO
VENEZUELA
For further information:
· See the Department of State's travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information.
· Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
· The Department of State's Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) provides several resources to enhance the safety and security of the U.S. private sector abroad. Additional information on OSAC can be found on OSAC.gov or by following OSAC on Twitter.
· Mariners and U.S. citizens considering maritime travel should also review information at the websites of the National Geospatial Agency, the Maritime Security Communications with Industry Portal, and the U.S. Coast Guard for information related to maritime and port security globally.
-
On Wednesday, January 10, 2018, the Department of State made changes to our safety and security information to make it easier to find, understand, and use.
Travel Advisories replace Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts. Every country has a Travel Advisory, which provides one of four standard levels of advice. The Travel Advisory gives an explanation for the level and include clear actions U.S. citizens should take.
Alerts replace Security Messages and Emergency Messages. Alerts follow an easy-to-understand format with clear actions U.S. citizens should take.
U.S. citizens who have signed up to receive updates via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP.state.gov) will automatically receive the China Travel Advisory and Alerts via email in the weeks following the January 10 launch. They will continue to receive other messages as usual, including announcements related to voting, town halls, and administrative issues.
For more information about improvements to our safety and security information and to sign-up to receive a notification on launch date, visit http://travel.state.gov/travelsafely.
Contact information:
Beijing – Email: BeijingACS@state.gov, Tel: (010) 8531 4000
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang, Beijing
Chengdu – Email: AmcitChengdu@state.gov, Tel: (028) 8558 3992
No. 4. Lingshiguan Road
Section 4, Renmin Nanlu
Chengdu, Sichuan
Guangzhou – Email: GuangzhouACS@state.gov, (020) 3814 5775
No.43 Hua Jiu Road
Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District
Guangzhou, Guangdong
Shanghai – Email: ShanghaiACS@state.gov, (021) 8011-2400
Westgate Mall, 8th Floor
No. 1038 Nanjing Xi Lu
Shanghai
Shenyang – Email: ShenyangACS@state.gov, (024) 2335 5188
No. 52, 14th Wei Road
Heping District
Shenyang, Liaoning
-
Your vote counts! Did you know that many U.S. elections for house and senate seats have been decided by a margin smaller than the number of ballots cast by absentee voters? All states are required to count every absentee ballot as long as it is valid and reaches local election officials by the absentee ballot receipt deadline.
Follow a few simple steps to make sure that you can vote in the 2018 U.S. elections:
1. Request Your Ballot: Complete a new Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). You must complete a new FPCA after January 1, 2018 to ensure you receive your ballot for the 2018 elections. The completion of the FPCA allows you to request absentee ballots for all elections for federal offices (President, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House of Representatives) including primaries and special elections during the calendar year in which it is submitted. The FPCA is accepted by all local election officials in all U.S. states and territories.
You can complete the FPCA online at www.FVAP.gov. The online voting assistant will ask you questions specific to your state. We encourage you to ask your local election officials to deliver your blank ballots to you electronically (by email, internet download, or fax, depending on your state). Include your email address on your FPCA to take advantage of the electronic ballot delivery option. Return the FPCA per the instructions on the website. FVAP.gov will tell you if your state allows the FPCA to be returned electronically or if you must submit a paper copy with original signature. If you must return a paper version, please see below for mailing options.
2. Receive and Complete Your Ballot: States are required to send out ballots 45 days before a regular election for federal office and states generally send out ballots at least 30 days before primary elections. For most states, you can confirm your registration and ballot delivery online.
3. Return Your Completed Ballot: Some states allow you to return your completed ballot by email or fax. If your state requires you to return paper voting forms or ballots to local election officials, you can use international mail, a courier service such as FedEx or DHL, or you may also drop off completed voting materials during regular business hours at the U.S. Embassy Beijing or any of the Consulates General in China. Place your materials in a postage paid return envelope (available under “Downloadable Election Materials” on the FVAP homepage) or in an envelope bearing sufficient domestic U.S. postage, and address it to the relevant local election officials.
4. New this year – email to fax service by FVAP! - the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) will provide an email-to-fax conversion service for voters who have difficulty sending election materials to States that do not accept emailed documents. Get more information here.
Researching the Candidates and Issues: Online Resources. Check out the FVAP links page for helpful resources that will aid your research of candidates and issues. Non-partisan information about candidates, their voting records, and their positions on issues are widely available and easy to obtain online. You can also read national and hometown newspapers online, or search the internet to locate articles and information. For information about election dates and deadlines, subscribe to FVAP's Voting Alerts (vote@fvap.gov). FVAP also shares Voting Alerts via Facebookand Twitter.
Learn more at the Federal Voting Assistance Program's (FVAP) website, FVAP.gov. If you have any questions about registering to vote overseas, please contact the Voting Assistance Officers at:
U.S. Embassy Beijing: BeijingACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu: AmcitChengdu@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou: VoteGuangzhou@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai: VoteShanghai@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang: VoteShenyang@state.gov
Remember, your vote counts!
Be absent but accounted for!
-
Health Alert
Location: Countrywide [China]
Event: The State Department received medical confirmation that a U.S. government employee in China suffered a medical incident consistent with what other U.S. government personnel experienced in Havana, Cuba. As a result of additional voluntary medical screenings, the Department has sent other individuals to the United States for further evaluation.
If you or members of your family experience any unusual, unexplained physical symptoms or events, auditory or sensory phenomena, or other health concerns, please contact your health care provider to determine whether a medical evaluation and/or treatment is advisable. Symptoms to be attentive for include dizziness, headaches, tinnitus, fatigue, cognitive issues, visual problems, ear complaints and hearing loss, and difficulty sleeping.
Action to Take:
· Do not attempt to locate the source of any unidentified auditory sensation. Instead, move to a different location.
· If you have concerns about any symptoms or medical problems, consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
Assistance:
· Contact the U.S. Embassy in Beijing by email at BeijingACS@state.gov or by telephone at 010-8531-4000 or 011-86-10-8531-4000 if you are calling from the U.S.
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu by email at AmcitChengdu@state.gov or by telephone at 028-8558-3992 or 011-86-28-8558-3992 if you are calling from the U.S.
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou by email at GuangzhouACS@state.gov or by telephone at 020-3814-5775 or 011-86-20-3814-5775 if you are calling from the U.S.
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai by email at ShanghaiACS@state.gov or by telephone at 021-8011-2400 or 011-86-21-8011-2400 if you are calling from the U.S.
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Shenyang by email at ShenyangACS@state.gov or by telephone at 024-2335-5188 or 011-86-24-2335-5188 if you are calling from the U.S.
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan by email at BeijingACS@state.gov or by telephone at 010-8531-4000 or 011-86-10-8531-4000 if you are calling from the U.S.
· Call the State Department – Consular Affairs at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States or Canada or 1-202-201-444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays)
· Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
· Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
-
What is this issue. My wife is having these symptoms right now. She's seen 3 doctors there and none have helped. Do you know what it is and the course of treatment?
-
What is this issue. My wife is having these symptoms right now. She's seen 3 doctors there and none have helped. Do you know what it is and the course of treatment?
Mind games or sonic weapon? US alert after American in China suffers brain injury caused by sound
WASHINGTON: A new form of hostility and warfare appears to be surfacing in the world with the Trump administration on Tuesday sounding an alarm about possible sonic attacks against its citizens after a US government employee in China reported unusual “sensations of sound and pressure,” and, on his return to America, was diagnosed with a mild traumatic brain injury.
The case, the first that Washington has reported out of China, is reminiscent of a wave of so-called “sonic attacks” on US diplomats in Cuba (https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Cuba) that resulted in the withdrawal of a large number of American personnel, including many who complained of symptoms like hearing loss, dizziness, tinnitus, visual difficulties, headaches and fatigue.
American officials said no other case had been reported from China but "the US government is taking these reports seriously and has informed its official staff in China of this event."
"While in China, if you experience any unusual acute auditory or sensory phenomena accompanied by unusual sounds or piercing noises, do not attempt to locate their source. Instead, move to a location where the sounds are not present," a health alert issued by the US Embassy in Beijing said, urging people with medical problems to consult a doctor.
The sole incident from China surfaced when a US government employee deployed in Guangzhou reported “subtle and vague, but abnormal, sensations of sound and pressure" between late 2017 through April 2018. The person was sent back to the United States and diagnosed with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI) on May 18.
Both in the Cuba case and the current one, US officials are leery of ascribing it to the “sonic weapon” theory that is already making the rounds on social media, but the State Department said it is taking this incident very seriously and is working to determine the cause and impact of the incident. The Chinese government too has assured they are also investigating and taking appropriate measures, a State Department official told news agencies. Cuban investigators had earlier dismissed US suspicions of a sonic attack (https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/sonic-attack) as “science fiction.”
The latest development came amid a ripple of mistrust between US and China illustrated by President Trump suggesting that Beijing was to blame for North Korea’s sudden backing away from the Singapore summit with US. Although he professed personal friendship with China’s President Xi Jinping, Trump said North Korea appeared emboldened to toughen its stand after its leader Kim Jong-un recently visited Beijing.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/mind-games-or-sonic-weapon-us-alert-after-american-in-china-suffers-brain-injury-caused-by-sound/articleshow/64292940.cms
-
Thanks Robert. What I read isn't the problem. I spoke with a rep at the Consulate in Guangzhou. The following does not come from the rep but from a Chinese woman namely my wife and her sister. It appears that my wife has some sort of female problem. More than I want to know. It apparently occurs in the mid 50's and her treatments requaire IV's for 3 hours a day seven days in a row and that is way more than I want to know but she tells me it seems to be working. What I want to hear. It is funded by the Chinese government which is music to my ears and I thank God I am not a Chinese woman. ;D
-
Weather Alert - U. S. Consulate General Chengdu, China July 10, 2018
Location: Sichuan Province
Event: Severe rainstorms have impacted significant areas of Sichuan Province, resulting in flight delays, road closures, landslides, and train service disruptions this week, with additional storms anticipated in coming days. The China Meteorological Administration has activated a level four emergency response to the rainstorm. Local authorities have activated a level three emergency response for the first time in five years. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue into July 11. The following tourist destinations are now closed: Mt. Emei (since July 9, 2018), Jiuzhaigou (since July 1, 2018), and the Wenchuan Yanmen section of National Highway 213 (since July 10, 2018).
Actions to Take:
· Monitor local media and the China Meteorological Administration’s website (http://www.cma.gov.cn/en2014/weather/) for updates.
· Be aware of your surroundings.
Assistance:
· U.S. Consulate General Chengdu, China
· +86 28 8558-3992
· amcitchengdu@state.gov
· https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/chengdu/u-s-citizens-services/
State Department - Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
China Country Information
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
-
Weather Alert - U. S. Consulate Guangzhou, China (September 14, 2018)
Location: Guangdong Province; Hainan Province
Event: Super Typhoon Mangkhut could make landfall near Guangdong and Hainan provinces, China between September 15th to September 16th. The Chinese government has issued a warning for Guangdong and Hainan areas. If landfall occurs, those living in impacted areas should expect extremely high winds, dangerous storm tides, heavy rainfall, and possible flooding to occur.
Actions to Take:
· Monitor local media for updates.
· Seek secure shelter.
· Visit the Joint Typhoon Warning Center and Tropical Storm Risk (TSR) for updated storm tracking information.
Assistance:
· U.S. Consulate Guangzhou, China
+86-20-3814-5775, +86-10-8531-4000 (24 hrs)
GuangzhouACS@state.gov
https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/
· State Department - Consular Affairs
888-407-4747202-501-4444
· China Country Information China Country Specific Information
· Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
· Follow us on WeChat: GuangzhouACS
-
Make your voice heard! Election Day is Tuesday, November 6. If you are an overseas voter, you should mail your ballot to your local election office by this Friday, October 12. You can also drop off your ballot free of charge at the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou. During business hours, the Consulate will have drop off boxes in the American Citizen Services office and at the entrance on Huajiu Road. ***PLEASE BE READY TO PRESENT YOUR U.S. PASSPORT***
The deadline for dropping off ballots is Monday, October 15. The Consulate will also host a presentation on U.S. midterm elections on Thursday, October 18 at 2:30 pm in the IRC conference room. The presentation is primarily for a Chinese audience, but U.S. citizens are welcome to attend.
*Ballots must be in either a U.S. postage paid return envelope or in an envelope bearing sufficient domestic U.S. postage. It must also be addressed to the relevant local election officials. If you will not receive your absentee ballot in time, you can use the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot, available online at www.fvap.gov.
-
Security Alert-U.S. Embassy Hanoi
U.S. Consulate Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Throughout Vietnam
Event: The U.S. Mission to Vietnam advises U.S. citizens of the High Crime rating for Vietnam. Recent reports of criminal activities include unwanted sexual advances, targeting children in public places for potential kidnapping, and reports of wrongdoing by taxis and ride-sharing services, including sexual harassment and theft of personal items.
Actions to Take:
· Maintain situational awareness and be aware of your surroundings.
· Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches and keep the amount of valuables on your person to a minimum.
· Do not physically resist if confronted by an armed or unarmed robber as robbers may resort to violence.
· Use caution when walking or driving at night.
· Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
Assistance:
· U.S. Embassy Hanoi - Consular Annex
From outside Vietnam: +84-24-3850-5000
From the U.S.: 011-84-24-3850-5000
From landline within Hanoi: 3850-5000
From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 024-3850-5000
acshanoi@state.gov
· U.S. Consulate Ho Chi Minh City
From outside Vietnam: +84-28-3520-4200
From the U.S.: 011-84-28-3520-4200
From landline within Ho Chi Minh City: 3520-4200
From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 028-3520-4200S
hcmcacsmail@state.gov
· State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs - 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
· Vietnam Country Information
· Follow us on Twitter and Facebook
· Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
-
Location: U.S. Embassy in Beijing, and U.S. Consulates General in Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan
Event: The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in China will be closed on Dec 5th, 2018, in observance of a National Day of Mourning for Former President George H.W. Bush.
Actions to Take: Individuals with American Citizen Services appointments scheduled on Dec 5th will be contacted to reschedule their appointments.
Assistance:
Contact the U.S. Embassy in Beijing by email at BeijingACS@state.gov or by telephone at 010-8531-4000
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu by email at AmcitChengdu@state.gov or by telephone at 028-8558-3992
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou by email at GuangzhouACS@state.gov or by telephone at 020-3814-5775
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai by email at ShanghaiACS@state.gov or by telephone at 021-8011-2400
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Shenyang by email at ShenyangACS@state.gov or by telephone at 024-2335-5188
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan by email at WuhanACS@state.gov or by telephone at 010-8531-4000
https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
China Country Information
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
-
Looks like business will be limited for a few days.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/lapse-in-appropriations.html
-
China – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in China due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws as well as special restrictions on dual U.S.-Chinese nationals.
Chinese authorities have asserted broad authority to prohibit U.S. citizens from leaving China by using ‘exit bans,’ sometimes keeping U.S. citizens in China for years. China uses exit bans coercively:
to compel U.S. citizens to participate in Chinese government investigations,
to lure individuals back to China from abroad, and
to aid Chinese authorities in resolving civil disputes in favor of Chinese parties.
In most cases, U.S. citizens only become aware of the exit ban when they attempt to depart China, and there is no method to find out how long the ban may continue. U.S. citizens under exit bans have been harassed and threatened.
U.S. citizens may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime. U.S. citizens may be subjected to prolonged interrogations and extended detention for reasons related to “state security.” Security personnel may detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for sending private electronic messages critical of the Chinese government.
Extra security measures, such as security checks and increased levels of police presence, are common in the Xinjiang Uighur and Tibet Autonomous Regions. Authorities may impose curfews and travel restrictions on short notice.
China does not recognize dual nationality. U.S.-Chinese citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese heritage may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment, and China may prevent the U.S. Embassy from providing consular services.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to China:
Enter China on your U.S. passport with a valid Chinese visa and keep it with you.
If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate immediately.
If you plan to enter North Korea, read the North Korea Travel Advisory.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow the U.S. Embassy on Twitter, WeChat, and Weibo.
Review the Crime and Safety Reports for China.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Assistance:
Contact the U.S. Embassy in Beijing by email at BeijingACS@state.gov or by telephone at 010-8531-4000
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu by email at AmcitChengdu@state.gov or by telephone at 028-8558-3992
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou by email at GuangzhouACS@state.gov or by telephone at 020-3814-5775
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai by email at ShanghaiACS@state.gov or by telephone at 021-8011-2400
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Shenyang by email at ShenyangACS@state.gov or by telephone at 024-2335-5188
Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan by email at WuhanACS@state.gov or by telephone at 010-8531-4000
https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
China Country Information
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
-
The Beijing Transportation Bureau recently issued the following traffic advisory for downtown Beijing due to National Day Events, to begin Tuesday, 1 October 2019, and continue until Monday, October 7th:
The following places will not have vehicle access without event credentials from 0000 hours on October 1st through 2400 hrs on October 7th:
The Great Hall of the People West Road
The Great Hall of the People South Road
Tiananmen Square West Side Road
Tiananmen Square East Side Road
Zhengyi Road
In addition, there will be no vehicle access from east to west between 0800 hours and 1900 hours every day from October 1st to October 7th.
During this period, additional information regarding traffic restrictions will be issued by the Beijing Transportation Bureau. Please ensure that you familiarize yourself with planned security restrictions to ensure that you do not encounter any difficulties, and carry your passport or other means of identification at all times.
Traffic restriction information is also posted on the Beijing government website: www.bjjtgl.gov.cn
-
Alert: Health Alert - Pneumonia of Unknown Cause in China (January 7, 2020)
Health Alert - Pneumonia of Unknown Cause in China
Location: Wuhan, Hankou area
Event: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued an Watch Level 1 Alert (be aware and practice usual precautions) for a pneumonia outbreak of unknown cause Wuhan, China.
Travelers to Wuhan should:
· Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
· Avoid contact with sick people.
· Wash hands often with soap and water.
If you traveled to Wuhan and feel sick, you should
· Stay home. Except for seeking medical care, avoid contact with others.
· Don’t travel while sick.
· Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell the doctor about your recent travel and your symptoms.
· Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
U.S. Consulate General Wuhan
New World International Trade Tower I,
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue
Hankou, Wuhan 430022
China
Telephone: +(86)(027) 8555-7791
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(027) 8555-7761
USConsulateWuhan@state.gov
Please note that Wuhan does not provide regularly scheduled consular services. Contact the Embassy in Beijing for consular assistance.
U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300
BeijingACS@state.gov
State Department - – Consular Affairs - 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
China Country Information sheet
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
-
Security Alert - U.S. Embassy Beijing (January 7, 2020)
Location: China [Countrywide]
Event: Heightened Middle East Tensions
There is heightened tension in the Middle East that may result in security risks to U.S. citizens abroad.
The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed.
Actions to Take:
· Keep a low profile.
· Be aware of your surroundings.
· Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists
· Review your personal security plans.
· Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300
BeijingACS@state.gov
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu by email at AmcitChengdu@state.gov or by telephone at 028-8558-3992
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou by email at GuangzhouACS@state.gov or by telephone at 020-3814-5775
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai by email at ShanghaiACS@state.gov or by telephone at 021-8011-2400
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Shenyang by email at ShenyangACS@state.gov or by telephone at 024-2335-5188
· Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan by email at WuhanACS@state.gov or by telephone at 010-8531-4000
· https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/
· State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
· China Country Information
· Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
· Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
-
Health Alert Update - Novel Coronavirus in China
Location: Wuhan, Hankou area
Event: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Watch Level 1 Alert (be aware and practice usual precautions) for an outbreak of pneumonia in Wuhan, China, preliminarily identified to be caused by a novel (new) coronavirus.
Travelers to Wuhan should:
Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
Avoid contact with sick people.
Wash hands often with soap and water.
If you have traveled to Wuhan and feel sick, you should
Stay home. Except for seeking medical care, avoid contact with others.
Don’t travel while sick.
Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell the doctor about your recent travel and your symptoms.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Please see https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/novel-coronavirus-china for further updates.
U.S. Consulate General Wuhan
New World International Trade Tower I,
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue
Hankou, Wuhan 430022
China
Telephone: +(86)(027) 8555-7791
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(027) 8555-7761
Please note that Wuhan does not provide regularly scheduled consular services. Contact the Embassy in Beijing for consular assistance.
USConsulateWuhan@state.gov
U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300
BeijingACS@state.gov
State Department - Consular Affairs - 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
China Country Information sheet
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
-
Health Alert Update - Novel Coronavirus in China
Location: Wuhan, Hankou area
Event: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Watch Level 1 Alert (be aware and practice usual precautions) for an outbreak of pneumonia in Wuhan, China, preliminarily identified to be caused by a novel (new) coronavirus.
Travelers to Wuhan should:
· Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
· Avoid contact with sick people.
· Wash hands often with soap and water.
· Consult the CDC Website for the most up-to-date information regarding enhanced screening procedures.
If you have traveled to Wuhan and feel sick, you should
· Stay home. Except for seeking medical care, avoid contact with others.
· Don’t travel while sick.
· Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell the doctor about your recent travel and your symptoms.
· Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Please see https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/novel-coronavirus-china and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/novel-coronavirus-2019.html for further updates.
U.S. Consulate General Wuhan
New World International Trade Tower I,
No. 568, Jianshe Avenue
Hankou, Wuhan 430022
China
Telephone: +(86)(027) 8555-7791
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(027) 8555-7761
Please note that Wuhan does not provide regularly scheduled consular services. Contact the Embassy in Beijing for consular assistance.
USConsulateWuhan@state.gov
U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300
BeijingACS@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs – 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
China Country Information sheet
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
-
China Travel Advisory Update: Level 4-Do Not Travel to Hubei Province
Level 4: Do not travel to Hubei province, China due to novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China:
There is an ongoing outbreak of pneumonia first identified in Wuhan, China, caused by a novel (new) coronavirus. In an effort to contain the novel coronavirus, the Chinese authorities have suspended air and rail travel in the area around Wuhan. On January 23, 2020, the Department of State ordered the departure of all non-emergency U.S. personnel and their family members. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Hubei province.
Chinese authorities have imposed strict travel restrictions in the area around Wuhan. Travelers should be aware that the Chinese government could prevent them from entering or exiting parts of Hubei province. Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Warning Level 3 Alert (Avoid Nonessential Travel) due to an ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that can be spread from person to person.
If you must travel to Wuhan, you should:
Avoid contact with sick people.
Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Older adults and travelers with underlying health issues may be at risk for more severe disease and should discuss travel to Wuhan with their healthcare provider.
If you traveled to Wuhan in the last 14 days and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should:
Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
Avoid contact with others.
Not travel while sick.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Please see https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/novel-coronavirus-china and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/novel-coronavirus-2019.html for further updates.
Exercise increased caution in China due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and special restrictions on dual U.S.-Chinese citizens:
The Chinese government has asserted broad authority to prohibit U.S. citizens from leaving China by using “exit bans,” sometimes keeping U.S. citizens in China for years. The Chinese government uses exit bans coercively:
to compel U.S. citizens to participate in Chinese government investigations,
to lure individuals back to China from abroad, and
to aid Chinese authorities in resolving civil disputes in favor of Chinese parties.
In most cases, U.S. citizens only become aware of the exit ban when they attempt to depart China, and there is no method to find out how long the ban may continue. U.S. citizens under exit bans have been harassed and threatened.
U.S. citizens may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime. U.S. citizens may be subjected to prolonged interrogations and extended detention for reasons related to “state security.” Security personnel may detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for sending private electronic messages critical of the Chinese government.
Extra security measures, such as security checks and increased levels of police presence, are common in the Xinjiang Uighur and Tibet Autonomous Regions. Authorities may impose curfews and travel restrictions on short notice.
The Chinese government does not recognize dual nationality. U.S.-Chinese citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese heritage may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment, and the Chinese government may prevent the U.S. Embassy from providing consular services. Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to China:
Enter China on your U.S. passport with a valid Chinese visa and keep it with you.
If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate immediately.
If you plan to enter North Korea, read the North Korea Travel Advisory.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow the U.S. Embassy on Twitter, WeChat, and Weibo.
Review the Crime and Safety Reports for China.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Last Update: Reissued with updates to the Travel Advisory Level: Level 4 for Hubei province.
-
The Department of State is making arrangements to relocate its personnel stationed at the U.S. Consulate General in Wuhan to the United States. We anticipate that there will be limited capacity to transport private U.S. citizens on a reimbursable basis on a single flight leaving Wuhan Tianhe International Airport on January 28, 2020 and proceeding directly to San Francisco. Interested U.S. citizens in possession of valid passports should contact BeijingACS@state.gov with the information listed below. This capacity is extremely limited and if there is insufficient ability to transport everyone who expresses interest, priority will be given to individuals at greater risk from coronavirus.
Full name:
U.S. passport number:
DOB:
Gender:
Email Address:
Phone Number:
Chinese Visa Information:
-
Reconsider travel to China due to novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
A novel (new) coronavirus is causing an outbreak of respiratory illness that began in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. This outbreak began in early December 2019 and continues to grow. Chinese health officials have reported thousands of cases throughout China.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Warning: Avoid all nonessential travel to China. Chinese authorities are imposing quarantines and restricting travel throughout the country.
Level 4: Do not travel to Hubei province, China due to novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China:
There is an ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness first identified in Wuhan, China, caused by a novel (new) coronavirus. In an effort to contain the novel coronavirus, the Chinese authorities have suspended air and rail travel in the area around Wuhan. On January 23, 2020, the Department of State ordered the departure of all non-emergency U.S. personnel and their family members. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Hubei province.
Chinese authorities have imposed strict travel restrictions in the area around Wuhan. Travelers should be aware that the Chinese government could prevent them from entering or exiting parts of Hubei province. Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Warning Level 3 Alert (Avoid Nonessential Travel) due to an ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that can be spread from person to person.
If you must travel to China, you should:
Avoid contact with sick people.
Discuss travel to China with your healthcare provider. Older adults and travelers with underlying health issues may be at risk for more severe disease.
Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
If you traveled to China in the last 14 days and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should:
Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
Avoid contact with others.
Not travel while sick.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Please see https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/novel-coronavirus-china and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/novel-coronavirus-2019.html for further updates.
Continue to exercise increased caution in China due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and special restrictions on dual U.S.-Chinese citizens:
The Chinese government has asserted broad authority to prohibit U.S. citizens from leaving China by using “exit bans,” sometimes keeping U.S. citizens in China for years. The Chinese government uses exit bans coercively:
to compel U.S. citizens to participate in Chinese government investigations,
to lure individuals back to China from abroad, and
to aid Chinese authorities in resolving civil disputes in favor of Chinese parties.
In most cases, U.S. citizens only become aware of the exit ban when they attempt to depart China, and there is no method to find out how long the ban may continue. U.S. citizens under exit bans have been harassed and threatened.
U.S. citizens may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime. U.S. citizens may be subjected to prolonged interrogations and extended detention for reasons related to “state security.” Security personnel may detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for sending private electronic messages critical of the Chinese government.
Extra security measures, such as security checks and increased levels of police presence, are common in the Xinjiang Uighur and Tibet Autonomous Regions. Authorities may impose curfews and travel restrictions on short notice.
The Chinese government does not recognize dual nationality. U.S.-Chinese citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese heritage may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment, and the Chinese government may prevent the U.S. Embassy from providing consular services. Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to China:
Enter China on your U.S. passport with a valid Chinese visa and keep it with you.
If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate immediately.
If you plan to enter North Korea, read the North Korea Travel Advisory.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow the U.S. Embassy on Twitter, WeChat, and Weibo.
Review the Crime and Safety Reports for China.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Last Update: Reissued with updates to the Travel Advisory Level: Level 3 for China and Level 4 for Hubei province.
-
Evacuation
Location: Wuhan, Hankou area
Event: There is an ongoing outbreak of a respiratory illness first identified in Wuhan, China, caused by a novel (new) coronavirus. In an effort to contain the novel coronavirus, the Chinese authorities have suspended air and rail travel in the area around Wuhan.
The Department of State may be staging additional evacuation flights with capacity for private U.S. citizens on a reimbursable basis, leaving Wuhan Tianhe International Airport on February 6, 2020. Interested U.S. citizens in possession of valid passports should contact CoronaVirusEmergencyUSC@State.gov with the information listed below. There is no need to call to confirm receipt of your email.
If you or your immediate family members are interested in departing on a flight, please immediately email CoronaVirusEmergencyUSC@state.gov with the below information for each passenger:
Full name exactly as written on your passport
Date of birth
Gender
Passport number
Nationality
Names of accompanying family members
License plate of vehicle transporting you to airport
Driver’s name
Driver’s national ID number Name of Place you are driving from
Name of city and province you are driving from
If you are not a U.S. citizen, but will be traveling with a U.S. citizen immediately family member please also provide:
Your relationship to the U.S. citizen (which must be a child, spouse, or parent)
Green card number, if you are a U.S. legal permanent resident
U.S. visa number, if you are not a U.S. legal permanent resident
If space is available, we will contact you with additional information. Please note that you will be responsible for your own transportation to Wuhan Tianhe International Airport.
Chinese health authorities will be screening travelers at the airport and may deny boarding to anyone who may be of health concern. They may also deny boarding to the passenger’s family members or involuntarily hospitalize anyone of health concern. Prior to actually boarding the aircraft, you will again be screened by Department of State medical personnel. Travelers who develop symptoms or fever during travel will be referred for medical care.
In accordance with the Proclamation on Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus, beginning at 5:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Sunday, February 2, the United States government will implement temporary measures to increase our abilities to detect and contain the coronavirus proactively and aggressively. Any U.S. citizen returning to the United States who has been in Hubei Province in the previous 14 days will be subject to up to 14 days of mandatory quarantine to ensure they are provided proper medical care and health screening. Our goal is to complete the health screening activities in a manner that safeguards the health and safety of all passengers and the people of the United States.
The Department of State will continue to monitor the situation and work diligently to assist the needs of U.S. citizens who are in the Wuhan area affected by the current outbreak situation.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Beijing
No. 55 An Jia Lou Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Fax: +(86)(10) 8531-3300
BeijingACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu
No. 4 Lingshiguan Road
Chengdu, Sichuan, PRC 610041
-
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Beijing, People's Republic of China (March 17, 2020)
Location: People’s Republic of China
Event: There is an ongoing outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) first identified in Wuhan, China. The global public health threat posed by COVID-19 is high, with more than 80,000 reported cases worldwide.
The government of PRC has implemented enhanced screening and quarantine measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.
State/local government actions: Effective immediately, most major metropolitan areas in China will require travelers entering China from nearly all foreign destinations, including the United States, to undergo screening for COVID-19 and perform 14 days of monitored quarantine, either in their residence or in a Chinese facility, with the quarantine location determined based on their risk of COVID-19 infection. In some locations, travelers may be expected to pay for their accommodations while undergoing quarantine. Travelers may not have control over the amenities offered at quarantine locations. These quarantine measures are not consistent across China and submitting to them is mandatory. U.S. citizens may also be required to install and use location tracking software on their phones in order to access public spaces and some businesses. Some private hospitals may refuse admittance to travelers who have been in the United States 14 days prior to entering China.
Actions to Take:
· Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.
· For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19 please see the CDC’s latest recommendations.
· Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
· Check with your airlines or cruise lines regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
· Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in China.
· Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the U.S.
· Be aware you may be subject to quarantine for an undetermined period of time if you plan to travel to China.
Assistance:
· U.S. Embassy Beijing, China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: BeijingACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/beijing/
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu, China
Telephone: +(86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: AmCitChengdu@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou, China
Telephone: +(86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: GuangzhouACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/guangzhou/
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai, China
Telephone: +(86)(21) 8011-2400
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: ShanghaiACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shanghai/
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang, China
Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Email: ShenyangACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shenyang/
· State Department - Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
· China Country Information
· Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
· Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
-
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Beijing, People's Republic of China (March 27, 2020)
Location: People’s Republic of China
Event: There is an ongoing outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19). The global public health threat posed by COVID-19 is high, with 529,591 reported cases worldwide as of March 27, 2020.
Suspended Entry: Effective March 28, 2020, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) will temporarily suspend entry into the PRC by foreign nationals holding visas or residence permits. Entry by foreign nationals with APEC Business Travel Cards will be suspended as well. Policies including port visas, 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, Hainan 30-day visa-free policy, 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign cruise-group-tour through Shanghai Port, Guangdong 144-hour visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong or Macao SAR, and Guangxi 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups of ASEAN countries will also be temporarily suspended. Foreign nationals coming to China for necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities or out of emergency humanitarian needs may apply for visas at Chinese embassies or consulates.
Reduced travel options: American Citizens should expect a significant reduction in flights to and from China. Per Chinese aviation authorities, starting March 29, 2020, foreign airlines will be required to maintain only one air route to China and operate no more than one flight per week. Chinese domestic airlines are also expected to further reduce available routes per guidelines. Flights to and from China should carry no more than 75 percent of the passengers that they are licensed to carry. American citizens planning to depart China should expect a significant drop in the number of options and frequency of flights to the U.S. and should plan accordingly.
State/local government actions: Travelers who are able to enter China despite the March 28 travel suspensions should note the following: Local screening and quarantine requirements can vary significantly, and regulations can change very quickly. All U.S. citizens who enter China will be screened upon arrival and be subject to a 14-day quarantine. All arrivals should be prepared to complete quarantine at a government selected facility or hotel at their own expense, even if they maintain a residence in China or are traveling domestically. Please consult local authorities on specific quarantine requirements. These quarantine measures are not consistent across China and submitting to them is mandatory. U.S. citizens may also be required to install and use location tracking software on their phones in order to access public spaces and some businesses. Some private hospitals may refuse admittance to travelers who have been in the United States 14 days prior to entering China.
-
Travel to China??? You should forget about travelling to your next door neighbours home.
Willy
-
American Community,
美国公民们：
American Citizen Services (ACS) units throughout Mission China are open for routine and emergency services. You can access our online appointment system on our website. We are currently taking appointments for routine services. If your situation is urgent and you are unable to schedule an appointment, please contact us. Email addresses and 24-hour phone numbers for the Embassy and each Consulate General are listed below. American citizens who have not done so, please enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so you can be contacted with updated information and in an emergency.
中国境内各美国使领馆的美国公民服务部仍然开放，提供常规和紧急服务。您可以在我们的网站上访问我们的在线预约系统。我们目前接受常规业务的预约。如果您的情况很紧急但无法在网上预约，请与我们联系。下面列出了大使馆和各领事馆的电子邮件地址和24小时的电话号码。尚未注册美国国务院“智能旅客登记程序（STEP）”项目的美国公民，请及时注册以便获取最新的信息。
Other Actions to Take:
· Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19.
· For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19 please see the CDC’s latest recommendations.
· Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
· Check with your airlines or cruise lines regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
· Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in China.
· Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the U.S.
其他需要采取的行动：
• 请访问CDC 网站以获取有关如何减少感染COVID-19风险的最新信息。
• 有关如何减少感染COVID-19风险的最新信息，请参阅CDC 的最新建议。
• 访问travel.state.gov上的COVID-19页面以获取最新信息。
• 向您的航空公司或邮轮公司咨询有关您的旅行计划和/或旅行限制的任何最新信息。
• 请访问大使馆的COVID-19网页，了解有关中国的情况。
• 访问美国国土安全部网站，以了解对美国的最新旅行限制。
U.S. Embassy Beijing, China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: BeijingACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/beijing/
美国驻北京大使馆
电话：+(86)(10) 8531-4000
非工作时间紧急事务电话：+(86)(10) 8531-4000
电子邮件：BeijingACS@state.gov
网址：https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/beijing/
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu, China
Telephone: +(86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: AmCitChengdu@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/chengdu/
美国驻成都总领事馆
电话：+(86)(28) 8558-3992
非工作时间紧急事务电话：+(86)(10) 8531-4000
电子邮件：AmCitChengdu@state.gov
网址：https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/chengdu/
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou, China
Telephone: +(86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: GuangzhouACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/guangzhou/
美国驻广州总领事馆
电话：+(86)(20) 3814-5775
非工作时间紧急事务电话：+(86)(10) 8531-4000
电子邮件：GuangzhouACS@state.gov
网址：https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/guangzhou/
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai, China
Telephone: +(86)(21) 8011-2400
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: ShanghaiACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shanghai/
美国驻上海总领事馆
电话：+(86)(21) 8011-2400
非工作时间紧急事务电话：+(86)(10) 8531-4000
电子邮件：ShanghaiACS@state.gov
网址：https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shanghai/
American Citizen Services (ACS) Unit (CRW)
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang, China
185 Qingnian Avenue, Maoye Tiandi Shopping Mall, 5th Floor
Tel: (86)(24) 2335-5188
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shenyang
美国驻沈阳总领事馆
青年大街185号茂业天地购物中心5层，
电话：(86)(24) 2335-5188
-
Location: People’s Republic of China
Event: There is an ongoing outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19). The global public health threat posed by COVID-19 is high, with 826,222 reported cases worldwide as of March 31, 2020.
Crisis Preparation Abroad: 1) Prepare your emergency kit: It should include your passports, birth abroad certificates for children born overseas, cash in the local currency, a card with local translations of basic terms, and an electrical current converter. 2) Have a two week supply of food and water for each member of your household – don’t forget your pets! A crisis can make it impossible to leave your home or make the local water undrinkable. If you have pets, be sure to have their vaccination records as well. 3) Households with infants and young children should plan for food and supplies, such as diapers and wipes, formula or baby food, and a change of clothing. 4) If you take medication, make sure to have at least five days’ worth at any given time – if you can, we encourage enough for two weeks beyond your scheduled trip and have a copy of your prescriptions handy. 5) If you use assistive or medical devices that require a power supply, be sure to find backup power or other ways that will sustain your device or equipment during a power outage. 6) Make sure your passport is ready for use. Most countries require that it be valid for at least six months after the end of your trip and that it have two or more blank pages. For more information about being ready for a crisis abroad, please click on the following URL: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/emergencies/what-can-you-do-crisis-abroad.html
Suspended Entry: Effective March 28, 2020, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) will temporarily suspend entry into the PRC by foreign nationals holding visas or residence permits. Entry by foreign nationals with APEC Business Travel Cards will be suspended as well. Policies including port visas, 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, Hainan 30-day visa-free policy, 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign cruise-group-tour through Shanghai Port, Guangdong 144-hour visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong or Macao SAR, and Guangxi 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups of ASEAN countries will also be temporarily suspended. Foreign nationals coming to China for necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities or out of emergency humanitarian needs may apply for visas at Chinese embassies or consulates.
Reduced travel options: American Citizens should expect a significant reduction in flights to and from China. Per Chinese aviation authorities, starting March 29, 2020, foreign airlines will be required to maintain only one air route to China and operate no more than one flight per week. Chinese domestic airlines are also expected to further reduce available routes per guidelines. Flights to and from China should carry no more than 75 percent of the passengers that they are licensed to carry. American citizens planning to depart China should expect a significant drop in the number of options and frequency of flights to the U.S. and should plan accordingly.
State/local government actions: Travelers who are able to enter China despite the March 28 travel suspensions should note the following: Local screening and quarantine requirements can vary significantly, and regulations can change very quickly. All U.S. citizens who enter China will be screened upon arrival and be subject to a 14-day quarantine. All arrivals should be prepared to complete quarantine at a government selected facility or hotel at their own expense, even if they maintain a residence in China or are traveling domestically. Please consult local authorities on specific quarantine requirements. These quarantine measures are not consistent across China and submitting to them is mandatory. U.S. citizens may also be required to install and use location tracking software on their phones in order to access public spaces and some businesses. Some private hospitals may refuse admittance to travelers who have been in the United States 14 days prior to entering China.
Actions to Take:
Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.
For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19 please see the CDC’s latest recommendations.
Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
Check with your airlines or cruise lines regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in China.
Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the U.S.
Be aware you may be subject to quarantine for an undetermined period of time if you plan to travel to China.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Beijing, China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: BeijingACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/beijing/
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu, China
Telephone: +(86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: AmCitChengdu@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou, China
Telephone: +(86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: GuangzhouACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/guangzhou/
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai, China
Telephone: +(86)(21) 8011-2400
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: ShanghaiACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shanghai/
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang, China
Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Email: ShenyangACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shenyang/
State Department - Consular Affairs
Telephone: 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
China Country Information
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
-
Global Health Advisory: Do Not Travel. Avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19 (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/travel-advisory-alert-global-level-4-health-advisory-issue.html).
Do not travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) due to continued COVID-19 travel and quarantine restrictions. Effective March 28, 2020, the PRC suspended entry into the PRC by foreign nationals holding visas or residence permits. Most commercial air carriers reduced or suspended routes to and from the PRC. While exceptions may be granted by PRC authorities, U.S. citizens who are able to enter the PRC will likely be subject to strict mandatory testing and quarantine requirements.
The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. Those currently in the PRC with an intent to depart should attempt to do so by commercial means. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of travel restrictions with little or no advance notice, including flight cancelations and delays. U.S. citizens remaining in the PRC should follow the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and PRC health authorities’ guidance for prevention, signs and symptoms, and treatment. We strongly urge U.S. citizens remaining in the PRC to actively monitor and follow local health requirements and restrictions. In the event the situation deteriorates further, the ability of the U.S. Embassy and Consulates to provide assistance to U.S. nationals within the PRC may be limited.
On January 23, 2020, the Department of State ordered the departure of all non-emergency U.S. personnel and their family members from Wuhan. On January 29, 2020, the Department of State allowed for the voluntary departure of non-emergency personnel and family members of U.S. government employees from the PRC. On January 31, 2020, the Department of State ordered the departure of all family members under age 21 of U.S. personnel in the PRC.
The CDC has issued a Global COVID-19 Pandemic Notice (Level 3, Avoid Nonessential Travel). The CDC has published suggestions on how to reduce your risk of contracting the novel Coronavirus. Visit the CDC webpage for expanded information about the novel Coronavirus, including prevention, signs and symptoms, and treatment.
Exercise increased caution in the PRC due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws for purposes other than maintaining law and order, including the use of exit bans.
Country Summary: The PRC government has asserted broad authority to prohibit U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries from leaving the PRC by using “exit bans,” sometimes keeping them in the PRC for years. The PRC government uses exit bans:
• to compel individuals to participate in PRC government investigations,
• to pressure family members to return to the PRC from abroad, and
• to aid PRC authorities in resolving civil disputes in favor of PRC national parties.
In most cases, U.S. citizens only become aware of their exit ban when they attempt to depart the PRC, and there is no reliable mechanism or legal process to find out how long the ban might continue or to contest it.
U.S. citizens may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime. U.S. citizens may be subjected to prolonged interrogations and extended detention for reasons related to “state security.” Security personnel may detain and/or deport U.S. citizens for sending private electronic messages critical of the PRC government.
Extra security measures, such as security checks and increased levels of police presence, are common in the Xinjiang Uighur and Tibet Autonomous Regions. Authorities may impose curfews and travel restrictions on short notice.
The PRC government does not recognize dual nationality. U.S.-PRC citizens and U.S. citizens of Chinese heritage may be subject to additional scrutiny and harassment, and the PRC government may prevent the U.S. Embassy from providing consular services. Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/China.html).
If you decide to travel to the PRC:
• Enter the PRC on your U.S. passport with a valid PRC visa and keep it with you.
• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate immediately.
• If you plan to enter North Korea, read the North Korea Travel Advisory (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/KoreaDemocraticPeoplesRepublicof.html). Travelers should note that U.S. passports are not valid for travel to, in, or through North Korea, unless they are specially validated by the Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (https://step.state.gov/step/) (STEP (https://step.state.gov/step/)) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow the U.S. Embassy on Twitter, WeChat (https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/social-media/wechat/), and Weibo.
• Review the Crime and Safety Reports (https://www.osac.gov/Country/China/Detail) for the PRC.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-checklist.html).
Last Update: Reissued after periodic review with edits.
-
Health Alert- U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China (May 31, 2021)
Location: Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
Event: Local health authorities are expanding COVID-19 measures across Guangzhou and for persons departing the city. As of 10 p.m. tonight, May 31, persons departing Guangzhou via airport, railway, and coach terminals should present a green health code and negative COVID-19 test results from within the last 72 hours. Those departing the city by car should present negative COVID-19 test results from within the last 72 hours.
Local health authorities have recently identified COVID-19 cases in Guangzhou’s Liwan district, Shenzhen’s Yantian district, and several other locations in Guangdong Province. Elevated risk levels in these areas have led local authorities to implement prevention and control measures that include mass testing, cancellation of public events, school closures, and disruption of public transportation. The U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou encourages all U.S. citizens to comply with local authorities’ COVID-19 prevention procedures and to maintain caution when traveling.
The U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou continues to monitor the rapidly changing conditions due to COVID-19 in China and in other locations worldwide. The most current information regarding the impact of COVID-19 may be found at our COVID-19 Information Page at https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/covid-19-information/. If you find yourself in an emergency, please call the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou at +(86)(10) 3814-5000 or email GuangzhouACS@state.gov.
Guidance from local authorities continues to evolve with the situation. If you need assistance to understand the guidance, call the Guangzhou Multilingual Public Service Hotline at 960169, or Guangzhou Public Health Hotline at 12320. English-language information from Guangzhou authorities is available at http://www.gz.gov.cn/guangzhouinternational/.
Actions to Take:
For the latest requirements on entering China, please refer to the Chinese Embassy’s page at this link.
Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.
For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19 please see the CDC’s latest recommendations.
Visit the COVID-19 page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
Check with your airlines or cruise lines regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in China.
Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States.
For Assistance:
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou
Email: GuangzhouACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/guangzhou/
Telephone: +(86)(20) 3814-5000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Department of State – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
· China Country Information
· Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
· Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
-
Still happy to be living in Gounggdong Province and witnessing what is raking place here .
Willy
-
Hey Willy! Ni hao ma. Are you still living the good life?
-
In response to local outbreaks of COVID-19, including the new Omicron variant, People's Republic of China (PRC) authorities are expanding prevention and control measures in certain cities and communities. These measures may include mass testing, closures, transportation disruptions, lockdowns, and possible family separation. Consult local media and websites regarding the most current restrictions for your area. Failure to follow the instructions of your local authorities may further complicate problems U.S. Citizens may encounter.
The U.S. Embassy in Beijing and Consulates General in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan are aware of reports of food and medical shortages in some affected areas and are monitoring conditions closely. The Embassy and Consulates General understand anxieties around questions of food and medical supply, communication difficulties, and isolation under tight quarantine rules.
If you find yourself in an emergency, please contact the Embassy or Consulate General for your area using the information at https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/contact/.
Amid the difficult on-the-ground conditions, your local authorities and/or employer should be able to best help you immediately: You can reach out for assistance most effectively by contacting your local community’s office. You may also want to try the local Foreign Affairs Office (waiban) at affiliated employers, universities, and other organizations. If you are concerned about language issues, contacting them via WeChat may be better than trying to call. Your local employer might also be able to provide assistance with resolving specific issues.
As the PRC prepares for the Spring Festival and the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, COVID-19-related conditions and policies could change suddenly and affect previously low-risk areas. The Department of State has prepared information to help you stay safe during the Games at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/2022-Olympic-and-Paralympic-Games.html. This site will be updated regularly as more information becomes available or as conditions change.
The Department’s free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is still the best way to receive the latest alerts. Encourage U.S. citizens you know to register if they have not already done so at https://step.state.gov/STEP/Pages/Common/Subscribe.aspx.
Actions to Take:
Check with your hotels, airlines, or cruise lines, and local media and authorities regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
Visit the Embassy COVID-19 webpage for information on conditions in China.
For the latest requirements on entering China, please refer to the PRC Embassy’s website.
Consult the CDC website for the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19.
Visit the Travel.State.Gov COVID-19 webpage for the latest information by country.
For Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Beijing and Consulates General Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan
https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/contact/
Department of State – Consular Affairs
+1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
China Country Information
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
-
Reconsider travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and COVID-19-related travel restrictions. Reconsider travel to the PRC’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) due to both arbitrary enforcement of local laws and COVID-19-related travel restrictions.
Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for the PRC and a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Hong Kong, due to COVID-19. Your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with an FDA approved or authorized vaccine. Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC's specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.
The zero-tolerance approach to COVID-19 by the PRC and Hong Kong governments severely impacts travel and access to public services. All arrivals should prepare to quarantine at a government-designated location for a minimum of 14 days. While in quarantine, health authorities will test travelers as often as daily for COVID-19 and will not permit travelers to leave their rooms. Travelers who test positive during this quarantine time will be transferred to a government-designated medical facility. Standards of care, accommodations, testing, and treatments may differ considerably from standards in the United States. Even after completing quarantine on-arrival, travelers to the PRC and Hong Kong may face additional quarantines and testing as well as movement and access restrictions, including access to medical services and public transportation.
Travelers within the PRC and Hong Kong may be subject to unannounced mandatory testing. In areas with confirmed COVID-19 cases, restrictions may include being confined to home or moved to a government- designated quarantine facility. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 and related restrictions and conditions in the PRC, or the Consulate General Hong Kong's COVID-19 page for information on the COVID-19 situation in Hong Kong as testing and travel requirements frequently change.
-
The Department of State is pleased to announce that the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou has been selected as a pilot location for renewing passports via mail and for payment of DS-82 passport renewal fees online for those residing in the People’s Republic of China. Beginning February 15, 2022, passport applicants living anywhere in the People’s Republic of China wishing to renew by mail and/or pay for their DS-82 renewal application online may visit https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhousections-offices/u-s-citizen-services-guangzhou/ to learn more about these options. If eligible, applicants may then submit payment via U.S. or international credit or debit card, electronic funds transfer from a U.S.-based bank account, Amazon Pay, or Pay Pal.
We also recommend that Americans overseas take the following actions:
· Enroll at STEP.state.gov to receive the latest updates from the Embassy. Your registration expires automatically based on the dates entered and you will not receive updates after that date. From within your account settings, update to INDEFINITE to ensure that you continue receiving messages. If you have any trouble, please email CASTEP@state.gov.
· Visit travel.state.gov for the latest Travel Advisories and other guidance regarding COVID-19 for U.S. citizens abroad at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/covid-19-information.html.
· Follow the advice of the CDC and local health authorities that you can find at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
· Check with their airlines, cruise lines, or travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
· Monitor the Department of State’s COVID-19 website at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/covid-19-information.html
In the United States, passengers may be subject to CDC screening, health observation, and monitoring requirements upon reentry to the United States. For additional questions, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s COVID-19 Information for Travel page.
THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES IN GUANGZHOU IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE CONSULATE WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN CHINA. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.
-
Location: Guangzhou, Guangdong Province
Event: The U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou has received a report that several individuals, including a uniformed security guard, verbally harassed and physically assaulted a U.S. citizen on March 14 at a temporary COVID testing center located at the Zhongshan Residential Community Center on Jinyang 1st Street in Yuexiu District, Guangzhou.
As local authorities strengthen testing requirements, and with the COVID situation remaining uncertain, the U.S. Consulate General advises U.S. citizens to remain aware of and comply with local COVID control measures and to consider going to established medical facilities for COVID testing and to exercise caution when testing at temporary facilities.
If you believe that you are experiencing discriminatory harassment or abuse by private or public institutions based on your nationality, race, religion, gender, and/or sexual identity, you may report it by calling the police by dialing 110.
If you choose to report, identify yourself as a U.S. citizen and ask for an English-speaking officer, if needed, then report the discriminatory harassment or abuse you are experiencing and ask them to respond. Do not leave the scene unless you feel you are in danger, because police might not respond if the aggrieved person departs. After reporting the incident, please contact the American Citizens Services Unit, using the contact information below, to inform us of the circumstances and resolution. The U.S. Consulate General continues to track these incidents and bring them to the attention of the authorities as citizens request and circumstances warrant.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Beijing, China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: BeijingACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/beijing/
U.S. Consulate General Chengdu, China
Telephone: +(86)(28) 8558-3992
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: AmCitChengdu@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/chengdu/
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou, China
Telephone: +(86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: [GuangzhouACS@state.gov%20%20]GuangzhouACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/guangzhou/
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai, China
Telephone: +(86)(21) 8011-2400
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: ShanghaiACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shanghai/
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang, China
Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Email: ShenyangACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/embassy-consulates/shenyang
We also recommend that Americans overseas take the following actions:
• Enroll at STEP.state.gov to receive the latest updates from the Embassy/Consulate. Your registration expires automatically based on the dates entered, and you will not receive updates after that date. Update your account settings to INDEFINITE to ensure that you continue receiving messages. If you have any trouble, please email CASTEP@state.gov.
• Visit travel.state.gov for the latest Travel Advisories and other guidance regarding COVID-19 for U.S. citizens abroad at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/covid-19-information.html.
• Follow the advice of the CDC and local health authorities that you can find at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
• Check with airlines, cruise lines, or travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
• Monitor the Department of State’s COVID-19 website at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/covid-19-information.html
In the United States, passengers may be subject to CDC screening, health observation, and monitoring requirements upon reentry to the United States. For additional questions, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s COVID-19 Information for Travel page.
-
Location: People's Republic of China
Event: Reconsider travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and COVID-19-related restrictions. Do not travel to the PRC’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), Jilin province, and Shanghai municipality due to COVID-19-related restrictions, including the risk of parents and children being separated. Reconsider travel to the PRC’s Hong Kong SAR due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
On April 11, 2022, the Department ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and all family members from the Consulate General Shanghai consular district due to a surge in COVID-19 cases and the impact of restrictions related to the PRC’s response.
Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for the PRC and a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Hong Kong, due to COVID-19. Your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with an FDA approved or authorized vaccine. Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC's specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.
The zero-tolerance approach to COVID-19 by the PRC and Hong Kong governments severely impacts travel and access to public services. All travelers should prepare to quarantine at a government-designated location for a minimum of 14 days upon arrival. While in quarantine, health authorities will test travelers as often as daily for COVID-19 and will not permit travelers to leave their rooms. Travelers who test positive during this quarantine time will be transferred to a government-designated medical or other quarantine facility. Standards of care, accommodations, testing, and treatments may differ considerably from standards in the United States. Even after completing quarantine on-arrival, travelers to the PRC and Hong Kong may face additional quarantines and mandatory testing as well as movement and access restrictions, including access to medical services and public transportation. In some cases, children in Hong Kong and the PRC who test positive have been separated from their parents and kept in isolation until they meet local hospital discharge requirements.
Travelers within the PRC and Hong Kong may be subject to mandatory testing. In areas with confirmed COVID-19 cases, restrictions may include being confined to home or moved to a government- designated quarantine facility or hospital. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 and related restrictions and conditions in the PRC, or the Consulate General Hong Kong's COVID-19 page for information on the COVID-19 situation in Hong Kong as testing and travel requirements frequently change.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Beijing, China
Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: BeijingACS@state.gov
Website: https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou, China
Telephone: +(86)(20) 3814-5775
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: GuangzhouACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai, China
Telephone: +(86)(21) 8011-2400
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: ShanghaiACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang, China
Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(24) 2322-1198
Email: ShenyangACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Wuhan, China (Emergency U.S. Citizen Services ONLY)
Telephone: +(86)(27) 8555-7791
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(86)(10) 8531-4000
Email: WuhanACS@state.gov
· State Department – Consular Affairs – 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
· China Country Information sheet
· Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
· Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. Follow the U.S. Embassy on Twitter, WeChat, and Weibo.