Plan your trip
A medical trip needs a little more planning than a holiday. Here is what to sort out, and in what order.
1. Book the appointment before the flight
Hospital bookings open only days ahead, and dates can move. So we usually suggest this order: confirm the hospital and an approximate date with us, check your visa, book a flight you can change, then let us book the appointment as soon as slots open. Allow a spare day or two before you fly home in case you need extra tests.
2. Visa
Visa rules for China depend on your nationality and change often. Many nationalities can currently enter China without a visa for short stays, for purposes such as tourism, business or family visits, for up to 30 days. The official list of purposes does not mention medical treatment, so please confirm with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country whether visa-free entry applies to your trip, and which visa to apply for if it does not. If your treatment may take longer than your permitted stay, plan your visa for the full period.
We do not apply for visas or issue invitation letters. If your embassy asks for proof of your appointment, we can give you your booking confirmation and schedule.
Official sources:
- China Visa Application Service Center — entry policies, visa forms and centers
- The Chinese embassy or consulate in your country
3. Flights
- Fly into the city of your hospital if you can. All our cities have international airports.
- Choose a fare you can change. Appointment dates and test results can shift your plans.
- After surgery, ask the hospital when it is safe to fly, and check your airline's rules. Your discharge plan will include this question.
We can book flights for you if you wish. You pay the airline directly, at its price.
4. Where to stay
Stay close to the hospital: you may need to be there early, and on several days in a row. We suggest options near your hospital at different budgets and can book them for you. You pay the hotel directly, at its price. For longer stays, serviced apartments are often more comfortable and better value.
5. What to bring
Documents
- Your passport (you need it to register at the hospital), plus a copy
- Your medical records, reports and recent scans (images on a disc or download link, not only printed reports)
- A list of your current medicines with doses
- Your insurance details, if you plan to claim
Medicines
- Enough of your usual medicines for the whole trip, plus a few spare days, in their original packaging
- A doctor's letter for prescription medicines, and check the rules for bringing medicines into China
Phone and payment
- Your phone with WhatsApp. Some foreign apps don't work on Chinese networks; we help you set things up so you can stay in touch with us and your family throughout your stay.
- Payment apps set up and tested before you leave. How to pay in China
6. Traveling with a companion
A relative or friend can make a big difference, especially for surgery or a hospital stay. They will need their own visa or entry permission. Our escort works with both of you.
Need help planning?
Tell us your hospital, your dates and where you are flying from. We'll help you put the pieces in order.