1. Decide what you need
Not every patient needs to travel. If you mainly want to know whether your diagnosis and treatment plan are right, a remote second opinion may be enough. If you want treatment in China, start by clarifying the goal: diagnosis, surgery, radiotherapy, drug treatment or a check-up.
2. Prepare your medical records
Gather recent reports and, where relevant, the original images (CT, MRI, PET-CT) on a disc or as DICOM files, pathology reports, and a list of current medicines. Chinese doctors will need a translated summary. Bring originals and copies.
3. Choose the hospital and department
In China, the strength of a department often matters more than the overall reputation of a hospital. Public rankings, such as the Fudan University hospital ranking, and the hospital’s experience with your condition are good starting points. Our hospital pages list notable departments.
4. Book through official channels
Most public hospitals use real-name booking and require a passport. Some hospitals have international medical departments or VIP clinics with easier booking and English-speaking staff at a higher price. Avoid anyone who offers to sell appointment slots.
5. Check visa rules
Visa rules change frequently. As of August 2026, China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy covered citizens of 57 countries, and many countries also had unilateral visa-free entry, which was scheduled to run until 31 December 2026. These policies are for transit, business, tourism, family visits and exchange; medical treatment is usually not a listed purpose, so a trip for treatment may need a visa even if it is short. Some bilateral agreements, such as China’s mutual visa exemption with Kazakhstan, list medical treatment explicitly. Always check the National Immigration Administration or your nearest Chinese embassy before booking travel.
6. Plan payment
Public hospitals usually ask you to pay for each step, such as registration, tests and medicines, before it happens, and an inpatient stay requires a deposit. See our guide to paying hospital bills.
7. On the day
Expect to register, see the doctor, pay for tests, return for results and then see the doctor again. Popular hospitals are very busy, so arrive early and allow a full day.
8. If you are admitted
Family members commonly stay with inpatients in China, and professional caregivers can be hired. Ask about visiting rules, meals and what to bring.
9. After treatment
Before you leave, ask for a discharge summary, test reports and a list of medicines, and have them translated for your doctor at home. Agree on how follow-up will work.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners be treated at Chinese public hospitals?
Yes. Public hospitals generally treat foreign patients who present a valid passport. Language, registration and payment are the main practical hurdles.
Do I need to speak Chinese?
Most doctors in public hospitals work in Chinese, although some speak English. International departments and private international hospitals usually offer English. A medical interpreter makes consultations much easier.