Canton Fair Pre-Exhibition Guide: Visa & Entry Badge Instructions

Attending the Canton Fair is a great opportunity for global buyers and businesses.

To ensure a smooth trip, it's important to prepare in advance.

This guide covers key details regarding visa application and entry badge collection to help you get ready for the event.

1.Visa Application Tips for Canton Fair

Most international visitors need a Business (M) Visa to enter China for the Canton Fair.

Here’s a Step-by-Step Visa Application Process

Step-by-Step Visa Application Process

Check Visa Requirements

Visit the website of the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country to verify the latest visa policies and required documents.

2.Prepare Necessary Documents (requirements may vary by country)

Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months with blank pages)

Completed visa application form (available online from the Chinese embassy)

Recent passport-sized photos (meeting the embassy’s specifications)

Official Canton Fair invitation letter (issued by the organizers)

Business invitation letter (if required, from a Chinese company)

Flight and hotel bookings (may be requested by the embassy)

3.Submit the Application

Submit your documents to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Some countries may allow applications through authorized visa centers.

4.Visa Processing & Collection

Processing time varies but usually takes 3-7 working days.

Pay the visa fee and collect your passport with the visa once approved.

Visa Interview & Travel Reminders

If an interview is required, be familiar with your itinerary and state that your primary purpose is attending the Canton Fair.

Ensure your arrival and departure dates match those in your invitation letter.

Once in China, you are generally free to move around as long as you comply with visa regulations.

5. Canton Fair Entry Badge (Buyer Badge) Collection

A Buyer Badge (entry pass) is mandatory for attending the Canton Fair. Here’s how you can obtain it:

How to Apply for the Buyer Badge？

Online Pre-Registration

Visit the Canton Fair official website (https://www.cantonfair.org.cn) or use the Canton Fair app.

Complete your registration and submit the necessary details.

First-time attendees must apply online before arrival.

On-Site Collection of the Physical Badge

Bring your passport and registration confirmation to the designated badge collection points.

First-time visitors need to collect their physical entry badge at the fair’s registration center.

Returning buyers can reuse their previous badge, but they must update their details online.

Important Buyer Badge Notes

Collect your badge early to avoid long queues, ideally one day before the fair starts.

Keep your badge for future fairs – it remains valid for multiple sessions.

Lost badges require a replacement fee, so keep it safe during the event.

6. Final Travel & Fair Preparation Tips

✔ Book flights and accommodation early – Guangzhou hotels fill up quickly during the fair.

✔ Carry sufficient business cards – Essential for networking and meetings.

✔ Plan your visit efficiently – The Canton Fair venue is massive, so study the hall layout beforehand.

✔ Stay connected – If you need Google services, download a VPN before arriving in China.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful and stress-free visit to the Canton Fair. Safe travels and enjoy the event!