Cross-Border Health Protection: A Comprehensive Guide to Medical Services for Foreigners in China

In recent years, China’s Medical care has emerged as a popular choice for foreigners worldwide, thanks to its efficient diagnosis and treatment, sophisticated technical capabilities, and diverse service system. From a British blogger who flew to Beijing and resolved a two-year chronic illness in just 13 days to a Moroccan tourist who relieved knee strain through acupuncture, China is gaining recognition in the international Medical field. For foreign travelers, understanding medical insurance policies, procedural norms, and service resources in China is essential for secure health protection.

Medical insurance enrollment is the core prerequisite for foreigners to enjoy local medical benefits. In accordance with the Social Insurance Law of the People’s Republic of China, foreign employees legally working in China can participate in the basic medical insurance for urban employees through their employers. Unemployed foreigners holding permanent residence permits can flexibly choose to participate in employee medical insurance as flexible employees or pay premiums under the urban-rural resident standard. Foreign students studying in China can enroll in medical insurance in accordance with the policies of the city where their school is located. Notably, Yiwu in Zhejiang Province, as a reform pilot, allows foreigners with residence permits of two years or more to participate in medical insurance as flexible employees, breaking the previous restriction that only employed foreigners could access insurance. Currently, 10,000 foreigners from 126 countries have been incorporated into the local medical insurance system, enjoying the same reimbursement benefits as local residents. After enrollment, foreigners can activate electronic medical insurance certificates via the National Medical Insurance Service Platform APP, WeChat, or Alipay, enabling direct QR code payment for medical services and medications, which greatly simplifies the process.

Medical visa application is a key step for foreigners traveling to China specifically for medical treatment. Generally, applicants need to apply for an S2 short-term private affairs visa (endorsed “for medical treatment”), with a maximum stay of 180 days. After entry, they can apply for an extension or replacement of the residence permit at the local public security bureau’s entry-exit administration with a hospital certificate. For treatment cycles exceeding 180 days, a private affairs residence permit (endorsed “for medical treatment”) valid for up to one year can be applied for directly in China. Required materials include a passport, completed visa application form, medical condition explanation from an overseas hospital, medical diagnosis certificate/invitation letter issued by a tertiary hospital in China, financial proof, round-trip air ticket bookings, and overseas medical insurance covering the entire stay. Accompanying family members also need to provide proof of kinship or a hospital accompaniment certificate. It is mandatory to complete accommodation registration within 24 hours of entry—hotels will automatically upload the information, while those renting apartments must register at the local police station.

Convenient medical procedures and high-quality service systems provide an excellent experience for foreigners. When seeking medical treatment, valid passports and residence documents must be carried. For the first visit, a physical medical card should be applied for at the hospital window or service desk with real-name authentication, after which it can be bound to a mobile APP for online registration and payment. Multiple registration channels are available, including hospital APPs, WeChat official accounts, Alipay, and other third-party platforms. It is recommended to book popular specialist appointments in advance. emergency services are available 24/7 at emergency departments, with the national unified emergency call number being 120. In first-tier cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, many hospitals have established cross-lingual and cultural volunteer Teams, equipped with medical staff proficient in English or with overseas aid experience. Meanwhile, multilingual signs and professional translation services are provided, completely eliminating language barriers. The “International Medical Service Standards” implemented in October 2024 have further standardized processes such as multilingual services, appointment-based diagnosis and treatment, and direct commercial insurance settlement, leading to a 25% year-on-year increase in international medical outpatient visits at institutions like Huashan Hospital.

The unique charm of China’s medical care lies not only in cutting-edge technologies but also in traditional medicine. In the field of cancer treatment, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center has provided treatment for patients from more than 20 countries and regions. Advanced technologies such as CAR-T cell therapy have brought hope to patients with refractory diseases worldwide. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) serves as a bridge for cultural exchange. Featured services such as acupuncture, cupping, and health-preserving exercises offered by institutions like Longhua Hospital have attracted numerous foreign tourists, many of whom are amazed by the magical effects of TCM. In addition, the integrated “medical + tourism” model is maturing, allowing foreign patients to visit scenic spots during their treatment and recovery, making the medical journey more warm and memorable.

From medical insurance coverage to visa facilitation, from technical support to service upgrades, China is constantly improving its medical security system for foreigners. Whether short-term tourists or long-term residents, all can enjoy efficient, high-quality, and convenient medical services here, making cross-border health protection accessible to all.