Most international visitors need a Chinese visa — the M (business) visa is the standard category — unless their nationality is covered by China's unilateral visa-free entry scheme (30 days) or the 240-hour visa-free transit policy. Shenzhen entries are processed at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX) and at land crossings from Hong Kong/Macau. Apply through a China Visa Application Service Centre (visaforchina.cn) at least 3–4 weeks before travel: US citizens pay USD 185 for a single-entry visa, most other nationalities roughly USD 60–140 depending on nationality and number of entries. Carry a printed invitation letter from the organiser or your exhibiting partner, plus hotel and return-flight confirmation.
Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
Allows up to 30 days for business or tourism. The country list is updated periodically — verify your nationality against the current State Council / Chinese embassy list before booking. Stay is limited to the permitted region(s) and you must depart to a third country (not back to your origin). Carry onward ticket, hotel booking and proof of purpose.
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