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China Customs Declaration 2026: What to Declare, What to Skip

Most tourists don't need to declare anything. The exceptions: cash over $5,000 USD, drones, certain medications, large amounts of alcohol, and items for commercial use. Here is the practical guide.

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China Customs Declaration 2026: What to Declare, What to Skip cover photo

TL;DR

The China Customs declaration is much simpler than you think. If you have less than $5,000 USD cash (or equivalent), no drones, no controlled medications, no commercial goods, and no rare animal products, you skip the red channel and walk straight through the green channel. The form is now mostly digital (via the Customs app). Declare only what you actually have.
Cash threshold¥20,000 (about $2,800 USD) per person
Foreign currencyEquivalent of $5,000 USD must be declared
DronesMust be declared; >250g requires registration with CAAC
MedicationsPersonal use up to 6 months supply, original packaging + prescription
Customs appChina Customs (中国海关) — fill out before landing
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Do I need to fill out a customs declaration?

Yes if you are carrying cash over the threshold, certain items, or commercial goods. Most tourists can use the green channel without filling out a paper form, but the Customs app is recommended for the smoothest entry.

What is the cash declaration threshold?

¥20,000 (about $2,800 USD) per person in cash, OR the equivalent of $5,000 USD in any currency. Above the threshold, you must declare. Cash under the threshold needs no declaration but is still legal to bring in.

Do I need to declare foreign currency?

Yes, if you are carrying the equivalent of $5,000 USD or more. Bring proof of source (bank withdrawal receipt, ATM slip) in case customs asks.

Can I bring a drone to China?

Yes, but with restrictions. Drones under 250g do not require CAAC registration but must be declared at customs. Drones over 250g require pre-registration with the Civil Aviation Administration of China. Tourist flights are limited to specific zones — most of Beijing's center and all military areas are off-limits.

Can I bring prescription medication?

Yes, for personal use. Bring no more than a 6-month supply, in original packaging, with a doctor's letter or prescription in English (and ideally Chinese). Some medications are controlled or banned — see the official list at the Chinese embassy website before traveling.

What about over-the-counter drugs?

Generally allowed for personal use. Avoid pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, some cold medicines) which is restricted. Codeine-based painkillers are controlled. If you need specific OTC meds, bring them from home.

Can I bring ivory, tortoise shell, or other animal products?

No, you cannot bring ivory or any other endangered species product. China is strict on endangered species products, and the bans cover ivory, shark fin, pangolin, tiger parts, and many others. Penalties are severe (fines and detention). Buy from licensed antique dealers with CITES paperwork only.

Can I bring a lot of cash for a tour group?

Yes, but declare it. A tour operator carrying ¥200,000 in cash for group expenses is normal — just declare it on the form. Customs will often count it and ask the purpose, then wave you through.

What if I forget to declare something?

You will be fined if caught. The standard penalty is 20% of the undeclared value. For prohibited items (drugs, weapons, protected species), penalties are much higher and can include criminal charges.

How do I fill out the digital customs form?

Download "China Customs" (中国海关) app before you board. Most airlines link to it in their in-flight entertainment. Fill in: passport number, flight number, address in China, items to declare. Show the QR code at the customs officer.

Frequently asked questions

How much cash can I bring into China?
¥20,000 (about $2,800 USD) per person in CNY without declaration, or $5,000 USD equivalent in any currency. Above the threshold, declare it on the customs form. The limit applies to cash on your person, not traveler's checks or credit cards.
Do I need to declare gold?
Personal jewelry under 50g is generally not declared. Larger amounts of gold should be declared and may be subject to duty. The 50g threshold is informal; customs may ask questions about anything that looks like investment gold.
Can I bring a laptop?
Yes, no declaration needed for personal electronics. Two laptops are fine. If you are bringing 10+ laptops or electronics in commercial quantities, declare them.
Can I bring my prescription antidepressants?
Yes, with a doctor's letter. Bring no more than 6 months' supply. Common SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline, escitalopram) are allowed. Some benzodiazepines are restricted. Check the Chinese embassy website for the latest controlled-substance list.
Can I bring seeds or plant material?
No — China has strict phytosanitary rules. Even small amounts of plant material can result in confiscation and a fine. Declare or leave at home.
What about Cuban cigars or alcohol?
Personal alcohol up to 1.5L of spirits / 2.25L of wine / 4.5L of beer is allowed without duty. Cuban cigars for personal use are generally allowed; commercial quantities are taxed.
Can I bring a knife or multitool?
No — knives, multi-tools with blades, and other potential weapons are prohibited. A Swiss Army knife in your checked luggage is usually OK; in carry-on it will be confiscated. Pen knives and tactical folders are always prohibited.
Can I bring tea or food from home?
Small amounts of packaged food for personal use are usually fine. Meat, dairy, and fresh produce are restricted. Tea leaves and instant coffee are usually OK. Avoid bringing raw nuts or seeds.
What happens if customs finds something I forgot to declare?
For a small first-time mistake, you may be let off with a warning. Repeat offenses, large amounts, or controlled items result in fines, confiscation, and possible criminal charges. When in doubt, declare.
Can I bring a drone under 250g?
Yes, no registration needed, but you must declare it at customs. Tourist flights are restricted to specific zones — most urban centers and all military areas are no-fly zones.
Do I need to declare gifts I received in China when I leave?
Only if they exceed the value thresholds for duty-free personal items. Personal-use gifts under ¥800 ($110 USD) are generally fine. Larger gifts may attract duty.
Is the customs app available in English?
Yes, "China Customs Traveler" app is available in English, Russian, Japanese, and Korean. Use English for clarity. The QR code is universal.

References

  1. China Customs official
  2. Wikipedia: Visa policy of China
  3. CAAC drone regulations
  4. China Customs Traveler app (iOS)

Written by

Wei Zhang

Travel writer, 12 years covering China · Specializes in off-the-beaten-path

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