GoUnited States of America Visa Requirements

Visa Entry

1、 Visa

US visas are divided into two categories: non immigrant visas and immigrant visas. Chinese citizens traveling to the United States must apply for and obtain a visa in advance. A US visa only indicates that the visa holder is allowed to arrive at a US port and submit an entry application, and does not guarantee that they will necessarily enter the United States.

Non immigrant visas are applicable to tourists, business people, students, or professionals who need to stay in the United States for a specific purpose. Common non immigrant visas include business/tourist visas (B1 and B2), work visas (H, L, O, P, and Q categories), study visas (F and M categories), and exchange visit visas (J category). According to the requirements of US visa laws and regulations, most non immigrant visa applicants must prove to the visa officer that they have a strong binding force in their own country and will leave the United States after a short-term stay.

The immigration visa is applicable to foreign citizens who wish to permanently reside in the United States. Generally, individuals who intend to immigrate to the United States can only apply for an immigrant visa after their immigration application has been approved by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Immigration applications should be submitted to the USCIS office in the United States by eligible relatives or prospective employers. For specific information on submitting immigration applications, please refer to the USCIS website. Individuals who have obtained approval for their application and whose visa schedule has expired (if applicable) are eligible to apply for an immigration visa.

In addition to its embassy in Beijing, the United States has consulates general in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenyang, Wuhan, and Hong Kong to handle non immigrant visa applications within their respective jurisdictions. Applications for immigrant visas for Chinese Mainland residents can only be handled at the US Consulate General in Guangzhou.

Chinese citizens can make visa appointments through the official website of the US State Department（ https://www.ustraveldocs.com/cn/zh/ ）Conduct visa policy consultation, application, and appointment interviews.

Applicants can also refer to the Consular Office of the United States Department of State（ https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html ）The US Embassy and Consulates in China（ https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/zh/visas-zh/ ）Related webpage information.

Starting from November 11, 2014, Chinese citizens applying for US Business (B1), Tourism (B2), or Business/Tourism (B1/B2) visas can be granted multiple entry visas with a maximum validity period of 10 years. Chinese citizens applying for US study abroad (F, M) or exchange visit (J) visas can be granted multiple entry visas with a maximum validity period of 5 years.

Starting from November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens holding 10-year valid business/tourism (B1, B2, B1/B2) visas to the United States are required to register their personal information through the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) and regularly update it.

2、 Entry

All personnel arriving at US ports must undergo inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforcement officers, including entry, customs, and agricultural inspections.

Law enforcement officers will inspect travel documents such as passports and US visas held by inbound personnel, scan fingerprints and take photos for comparison, review the reasons for going to the United States, and decide whether to allow entry and the duration of stay in the United States after entry.

Inbound personnel may be required to go to the secondary inspection area for further examination. Entry personnel who undergo a second inspection will be taken to a designated area to queue and be inspected by another law enforcement officer, including further questioning, checking luggage, electronic devices, etc. (According to US law, law enforcement officers do not need to apply for a search warrant in advance and have the right to inspect all items carried by entry personnel, including luggage, computers, hard drives, mobile phones, etc.). A second inspection does not necessarily mean that incoming personnel will have problems or will be refused entry. It is recommended that incoming personnel cooperate, respect law enforcement personnel, and maintain rationality. Law enforcement officers may request to turn on their mobile phones, check stored information such as SMS and WeChat, verify whether the statements made by the incoming personnel are true, whether the entry information matches the visa application information, and whether there is an immigration tendency. If law enforcement officers determine that it contains illegal content (such as child pornography) or displays information that is not in line with the purpose of entry, it may result in refusal of entry, deportation, or even legal liability.

During peak hours of entry, the waiting time for secondary inspection may be several hours. Entry personnel are usually not allowed to use mobile phones or other means of communication with the outside world without permission, which may result in a situation of "loss of contact" with the outside world. After the second inspection is completed, regardless of whether the inbound personnel are allowed to enter or not, they can usually resume communication with the outside world. It is recommended that the parties concerned proactively contact their relatives and friends and report their safety.

After the second inspection, law enforcement officers usually make a decision to allow or deny entry. If denied entry, it usually goes through the expedited removal process. Rapid deportation is different from court ordered deportation, as it is usually not possible to hire a legal representative or file a lawsuit in court. The visa of the parties involved is usually cancelled and they are generally not allowed to enter the country for at least 5 years. If detained for criminal reasons upon entry, the party concerned has the right to request the hiring of a lawyer. Law enforcement officers may also provide individuals with the option to withdraw their application for admission or to continue applying for admission. Withdrawing the entry application on your own may avoid leaving a record of being denied entry or deported, and you can reapply for entry after reapplying for a visa abroad. If the applicant continues to apply for entry but does not actually meet the entry requirements, the law enforcement personnel will make a refusal decision and directly enter the expedited deportation procedure.

The reasons for being refused entry usually include failure to truthfully declare items, carrying prohibited items, incomplete entry information, or the actual purpose in the United States not matching the visa type. Whether denied entry or automatically withdrawn, U.S. Customs and Border Protection typically arranges for the individual to depart on the original or most recent flight. If there is no suitable flight, one may be sent to an immigration detention center.

In recent years, the United States has strengthened its scrutiny of Chinese science and engineering personnel studying in the United States, with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) Chinese students holding student visas (F1 visas). There have been incidents of Chinese students being harassed, interrogated, deported, and having their personal electronic devices confiscated by American personnel upon entering the United States. Remind students studying in the United States to raise their safety awareness, pay attention to the potential risks they may encounter, strengthen their self-protection awareness and ability, and respond calmly and properly. At the same time, comply with relevant regulations of American universities, timely and carefully review relevant letters and emails from the school, and respond promptly as required to avoid academic obstacles. In case of emergency, please contact the local embassy or consulate for assistance in a timely manner.

If dissatisfied with the US law enforcement process, the following measures can be taken to safeguard one's own rights and interests:

（1） If it is believed that law enforcement officers have engaged in improper law enforcement behavior or discriminatory practices, they may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Customs and Border Protection. website: https://help.cbp.gov/app/forms/complaint

（2） If you believe that your civil rights and freedoms have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties of the United States Department of Homeland Security. website: https://www.dhs.gov/office-civil-rights-and-civil-liberties

（3） You can apply for compensation from the Traveler Redness Inquiry Program of the US Department of Homeland Security for losses caused by being denied entry. website: https://www.dhs.gov/dhs-trip

3、 Stay here

After foreign travelers are allowed to enter, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforcement officers will update the CBP electronic system and generate an electronic version of the I-94 form (Arrival/Departure Record), which records the entry time, admission visa type, maximum allowed stay period, as well as the name, date of birth, passport number, nationality, and other information of the incoming travelers. Inbound passengers can log in to the website https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov Search and print relevant records. If any information is found to be incorrect, please promptly go to the nearest CBP airport of entry or CBP extension inspection office to correct it.

If the duration of stay in the United States exceeds the maximum allowed duration, the person will lose their legal residency status in the United States, and their visa will usually be automatically invalidated or cancelled, which may affect their ability to reapply for a visa to the United States.

Non immigrant visa holders who wish to extend their stay in the United States or change their purpose or status of travel to the United States must report to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before the end of their stay（ https://www.uscis.gov/ ）Submit an application.

4、 Exit the country

When leaving the country, the outbound personnel will have their fingerprints and photos taken again, and law enforcement officers from the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may conduct spot checks on the outbound personnel. If being randomly inspected, it does not mean that the parties involved have engaged in illegal behavior. Please do not be nervous and cooperate.

5、 Precautions

（1） According to US regulations, foreign citizens who come to the United States must have a passport valid for no less than 6 months. Please carefully check the validity period of your passport and US visa before traveling.

（2） Please carry with you copies of the relevant documents provided when applying for a visa (such as invitation letter, round-trip airfare, hotel reservation, etc.), which may need to be provided again upon entry.

（3） Please carefully read or inquire about the categories of prohibited items and confirm that you are not carrying any prohibited items.

（4） Please fill in the customs declaration form and other documents carefully and truthfully. If you have difficulty filling it out, you can ask airline staff or family or friends to assist in filling it out, and try to avoid entry obstruction due to negligence, omission or misreporting.

（5） Please queue up to handle the entry and exit procedures. When waiting in line, please keep quiet and try not to look left or right, make loud noises, change queues multiple times, use mobile phones, etc., to avoid leaving a bad impression on law enforcement personnel and causing unnecessary misunderstandings.

（6） Please cooperate with the inspection and provide relevant supporting documents as required according to the instructions of law enforcement personnel. If you don't know English, you can prepare a simple English note in advance requesting translation ("I only speak Chinese. Please help me with an interpreter." I only speak Chinese, please provide translation assistance). Some airports can provide Mandarin and Cantonese translation services.

（7） If law enforcement officers require you to undergo investigation or inquiry, please confirm that the interpreter can truthfully, accurately, and completely convey the intentions of both parties. If you have any questions about the translation content, you can raise doubts and request a replacement translator. After the inquiry is over, if you are asked to sign the inquiry transcript or other documents, be sure to read them carefully and confirm that the content is correct before signing. If you have any questions, please promptly raise them with law enforcement personnel.

（8） You can contact the Chinese Embassy in the United States with the consent of US law enforcement personnel, and the embassy will protect your legitimate rights and interests within its scope of duties.

（9） When leaving the country, it is recommended to arrive at the airport three hours before the plane takes off to check in.

（10） When a minor (under 18 years old) enters the United States not with both parents, but with one parent, or other relatives, friends, or tour groups, accompanying adults should prepare an authorization letter signed by the other parent or both parents for reference. It is best to have the authorization letter in English and notarized. The content should include: the name, gender, date of birth, name of one or both parents, reason for parents' absence, and contact information of parents.

Customs epidemic prevention and control

1、 COVID-19 vaccination

From May 11, 2023, the U.S. government will end the public health emergency of the COVID-19, cancel the COVID-19 vaccination requirements for international air passengers, and passengers will not show the COVID-19 vaccination certificate before boarding for the United States.

2、 Items prohibited or restricted from entering the country

（1） Biological products. Bacterial cultures, media, excreta, fungi, arthropods, mollusks, livestock tissues, birds, plants, viruses, or carriers used for research, biology, or pharmaceutical purposes must obtain biological specimens from the United States Department of Agriculture（ https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/permits ）Or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States（ https://www.cdc.gov/orr/ipp/ ）Only with permission can imports be made.

（2） Antique artifacts. Imported antique cultural relics must hold export licenses and receipts from other countries, otherwise their legal ownership may be questioned after being brought into the United States. US laws may also restrict the import of specific categories of art, handicrafts, antiques, etc. For more information, please refer to the website of the US Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs（ https://eca.state.gov/cultural-heritage-center ）.

（3） Agricultural products. Agricultural products may carry foreign pests and diseases that pose a threat to American agriculture and the environment, and the United States restricts or prohibits the entry of many agricultural products. When entering the country, all agricultural products such as soil, plants, meat, seafood, tea, herbs, etc. must be declared and inspected. There is no limit to the quantity of pure tea leaves that can be carried. It is prohibited to carry almost all fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables (including those distributed on airplanes or cruise ships). Soil entry requires approval from the US Department of Agriculture, and carrying peat, sand, clay, stones, etc. must be completely free of soil or other organic matter. For specific regulations, please refer to the website of the US Department of Agriculture（ https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant-imports ）

（4） Currency. There is no limit to the entry limit for carrying currency (including coins and currency from the United States or other countries in circulation, traveler's checks, cash drafts, and negotiable securities, etc.), but if the limit exceeds $10000 (for individuals or families traveling together), FinCEN105 form must be filled out and self declared. This form can be filled out online（ https://fincen105.cbp.dhs.gov/#/ ）Or request paper forms from US Customs and Border Protection officials. Failure to truthfully declare may result in civil and criminal liability, including confiscation of held currency and monetary instruments. Please refer to the website of the United States Customs and Border Protection for details（ https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/kbyg/money ）.

（5） Medication. Individuals are only allowed to carry the necessary and moderate amount of medication during the period of going abroad. If you need to carry drugs containing potential addictive or anesthetic ingredients (such as cough suppressants, sedatives, sleeping pills, antidepressants, or stimulants), you must declare to the US Customs and Border Protection and place the drugs in their original packaging. You must also bring a doctor's prescription or written statement (stating that the drug is being used under the supervision of a doctor and in the required amount during travel). It should be noted that only prescription drugs that can be legally issued in the United States can be imported for personal use. Generally speaking, the United States does not allow the import of prescription drugs purchased outside the United States. For more information and requirements, please refer to the website of the US Food and Drug Administration（ https://www.fda.gov/drugs ）.

（6） Pets. Bringing cats into the country generally does not require a health certificate, but some states and airlines in the United States may require it. Cats need to undergo inspection at the port of entry. If a cat is found to have a disease that may be transmitted to humans, it will be refused entry; If the cat's health condition is significantly poor, the port veterinarian will conduct further examinations on it, and the relevant expenses will be paid by the pet owner. The United States has listed China as a high-risk country for rabies, requiring dogs to be at least 6 months old and hold valid CDC rabies vaccination and ISO microchip records when entering the country. For specific requirements and regulations on bringing other pets, please refer to the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States（ https://www.cdc.gov/importation/index.html ）.

For more information and requirements on prohibited or restricted items, please refer to the website of the United States Customs and Border Protection（ https://www.cbp.gov/ ）.

3、 Regulations on Taxation

（1） Personal property. Clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, hunting or fishing equipment, cameras, portable radios, and other personal items carried by individuals for personal use only are exempt from taxation. If you immigrate to the United States, personal jewelry and other personal accessories worth $300 or more that are for personal use and exempt from taxation cannot be sold within 3 years. Selling the above-mentioned items without paying taxes may result in seizure and confiscation.

（2） Alcoholic beverages. Non resident who has reached the age of 21 can bring 1 liter beer, wine, Baijiu and other alcoholic beverages into the country duty-free, but only for personal use. Alcoholic beverages exceeding the above-mentioned quantity will be subject to taxation. In addition to federal laws, it is also necessary to comply with state laws regarding alcoholic beverages.

（3） Tobacco products. Passengers can bring in one pack of cigarettes (200), or 50 cigars, or 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of tobacco or personal tobacco products in the same proportion duty-free. Cigars produced in Cuba are prohibited from entering the United States, whether for personal use or as gifts.

（4） Household items. Individuals who meet the relevant conditions are eligible for tax-free import of household items such as furniture, tableware, books, artworks, etc.

（5） Duty free gifts. Non residents are eligible to bring gifts worth no more than $100 into the United States duty-free, but must stay in the country for at least 72 hours. For the convenience of customs officials' inspection, it is recommended not to package gifts.

（6） Gifts sent by mail. Gifts mailed from another country or Caribbean beneficiary country with a retail value not exceeding $100 are exempt from taxation. If the gift is sent from the US Virgin Islands, American Samoa, or Guam, the tax exemption for the gift shall not exceed $200, otherwise it will be subject to taxation. Note: Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products and alcoholic perfume are not within the scope of the above provisions.

（7） Items purchased at duty-free shops. Items purchased in duty-free shops, on airplanes or ships that exceed the quantity or amount limit of duty-free items that individuals can carry will be subject to taxation. Non US residents who transit through the United States and carry personal items, including alcoholic beverages not exceeding 4 liters, intended to be carried to places outside the scope of US customs duties, with a value not exceeding $200, are exempt from taxation.

（8） Items subject to taxation. Items that exceed the above-mentioned tax-free scope will be subject to taxation.

（9） Importing household items into the United States: Household items that are eligible for tax-free entry according to regulations do not need to be imported with the individual, and can be shipped by mail.

Specific policies can be found on the website of the United States Customs and Border Protection（ https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/kbyg/customs-duty-info ）.

Residency and Naturalization

The US citizenship policy adopts a birthplace based approach, allowing for the existence of dual citizenship but not encouraging it. US citizens (including dual citizens) must use a US passport to enter and exit the United States. The US nationality policy can be found in the Consular Office of the US State Department（ https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/travel-legal-considerations.html ）The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services（ https://www.uscis.gov/ ）Website.

public security

1、 Counter terrorism situation

The US Department of Homeland Security currently uses the National Counter Terrorism Alert System and periodically publishes notices on its official website, reporting on the terrorism threats and development trends faced by the United States over a period of time. When sufficient evidence of terrorist attacks is seized, an official alert will be issued to the public. The public can access the website of the Department of Homeland Security（ https://www.dhs.gov/national-terrorism-advisory-system ）Understand relevant information (some announcements are provided in Chinese version).

Before going to the United States, it is recommended to pay attention to the threat of terrorist attacks against civilians, including places where foreigners often operate. Given that terrorist attacks often occur in public places, it is important to remain vigilant when in crowded areas. In the United States, especially during airport clearance, do not casually discuss topics related to bombs and terrorism to avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary trouble.

It is recommended that personnel traveling to the United States strengthen their awareness of counter-terrorism and master necessary prevention skills. For specific reference, please refer to the "Citizen Counter Terrorism Prevention Manual (2021 Edition)" compiled by the Office of the Chinese National Counter Terrorism Work Leading Group（ https://www.mps.gov.cn/n2255079/n6865805/n7355741/n7355791/c8131255/content.html ）.

2、 Security situation

Recently, the overall social security situation in the United States has deteriorated, with frequent incidents of mass shooting violence, resulting in a large number of casualties. Anti Chinese sentiment has risen, and the unfriendly words and deeds against the Chinese have increased. Social opinion is divided, and there have been protests and demonstrations in many places, with many incidents of vandalism, looting, and police civilian confrontation. Many cities in the United States have high crime rates, with criminal activities mainly concentrated in specific neighborhoods of the city. Due to the habit of Chinese citizens carrying cash with them, it is easy to become a target of attention for criminals, and cases of theft and robbery of property occur from time to time. Telecom fraud cases occur frequently, with tricks such as impersonating "public security, procuratorate, and judiciary", "pig killing disks", virtual kidnapping, etc. Our personnel have been defrauded of a huge amount of money.

Individuals are the first responsible person for their own safety. Individuals traveling to the United States are advised to closely monitor the security situation, enhance their awareness of security precautions, and proceed cautiously to densely populated areas or areas with poor public security. They should also pay attention to the following matters:

（1） Pay attention to the local security situation. Avoid going to areas with poor public security. If necessary, try to travel with as many people as possible. Do not engage in conversations with strangers and avoid traveling alone or at night. When parking at tourist attractions or shopping places, it is especially important to strengthen safety precautions, lock the windows and doors, and do not leave valuable items inside the car. Carry identification documents and emergency contact phone numbers with you at all times. In case of an emergency, relevant parties can promptly notify the emergency contact and assist in handling related matters.

（2） Take good care of personal belongings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Keep a copy of the passport information page and store it separately from the original to ensure that if the passport is lost, the copy can be used to prove personal identity. Do not entrust personal belongings to strangers, and do not carry luggage or belongings for strangers. When going out, close the doors and windows of your residence. When leaving the hotel, be sure to check for any remaining items. Before getting on and off the car, pay attention to any abnormal situations around you and do not leave personal belongings in the car. When making payments outside, do not publicly display the cash you carry. Use a credit card to pay and ensure that the credit card is always in your line of sight to avoid being copied and stolen by criminals.

（3） Strengthen security and prevention capabilities. Enhance safety awareness, understand and master necessary emergency response and evacuation techniques. When encountering violent robbery, it is essential to prioritize personal safety, maintain composure, and avoid fighting to the death or taking actions that may cause misunderstandings among criminals. If life is threatened, one should shout for help and seek opportunities to report to the police.

（4） Prevent various types of telecommunications fraud, ensure that unknown links are not clicked, unfamiliar calls are not easily trusted, personal information is not disclosed, and transfers and remittances are verified frequently. Please refer to the "Overseas Telecommunications Network Fraud Prevention Promotion Handbook" for specific information http://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmzhw/lsbh/lbsc_660514/202406/P020240627326323765614.pdf

（5） Strengthen awareness and ability to respond to shooting incidents. In case of shooting incidents in public places, the three principles of "RUN-HIDE-FIGHT" (running away, hiding, and resisting) can be followed. Firstly, identify the direction of the shooting, observe the surrounding environment, quickly plan a reasonable escape route, and abandon all personal belongings to evacuate as soon as possible; If it is not possible to ensure a safe evacuation, one should immediately take cover and hide outside the shooter's line of sight. Find any place that can provide cover protection to avoid, try to hide behind larger and sturdy objects, lock or block the entrance, keep quiet, turn off mobile phones, and do not hide in blind spots or places with restricted movement; In the final situation where life safety is directly threatened and one has to confront the gunman, resolute resistance measures are taken, and all means are used to fight against the gunman, striving to subdue the opponent.

For more knowledge on effectively responding to shooting incidents in the United States, please refer to the relevant content on the website of the Department of Homeland Security（ https://www.cisa.gov/topics/physical-security/active-shooter-preparedness/translated-products-and-resources ）.

If you need assistance from the Chinese Embassy in the United States in the event of an emergency, you can declare to the US officials present that you are a Chinese citizen and request to contact the Chinese Embassy in the United States.

natural disaster

1、 Hurricanes and tornadoes

Hurricanes are similar to typhoons that occur along the southeast coast of China, usually from June to November, accompanied by strong winds and heavy rain, affecting the entire southern United States. Tornadoes and rainstorm mostly occur in the Midwest of the United States, with a high incidence from April to June. If you plan to travel to areas with frequent hurricanes or tornadoes, it is recommended to inform friends or family of your itinerary before departure and closely monitor the website of the National Weather Service in the United States（ https://www.weather.gov ）Local government agencies, media weather information and alerts, familiar with local emergency hotlines, airlines, travel companies, insurance companies, emergency contacts, and the hotline numbers of the Chinese Embassy in the United States. If a hurricane or tornado is approaching, please prepare daily necessities such as water, food, medicine, and emergency life-saving supplies, try to minimize going out, protect important documents such as personal identification, fill the car and generator with fuel, reinforce doors and windows with wooden boards, and store all outdoor furniture, toys, tools, and other items indoors. If encountering a hurricane or tornado, please follow the shelter and evacuation arrangements issued by the local government, schools, etc., take personal protective measures, and pay attention to secondary disasters such as floods caused by hurricanes. For specific information and response methods, please refer to the website of the National Hurricane Center in the United States（ https://www.nhc.noaa.gov ）.

2、 Earthquake

Earthquakes occur frequently in most parts of California, especially San Francisco, which is located on the San Andreas Fault Zone. If planning to travel to earthquake prone areas, it is recommended to master earthquake protection knowledge and follow the earthquake disaster planning website of the United States Geological Survey（ https://earthquake.usgs.gov ）Local government agencies, media earthquake information and alerts, prepare emergency supplies. If encountering an earthquake, please pay attention to the following:

（1） Like indoors. Firstly, take the initiative to squat down, with both hands and knees on the ground. Secondly, protect your head and neck with your hands to prevent injury from falling objects. If in a dangerous position, try to climb to safer places such as under the table, corners of the house, or inner walls as much as possible. If in bed, stay on the bed and use a pillow to protect your head. Pay attention to keeping a distance from windows, exterior doors, glass, and any items that may fall. If possible, wear a safety helmet and quickly extinguish gas, cigarette butts, or other sources of fire or power. Thirdly, hold onto a sturdy object around you until the vibration stops. Most earthquake injuries occur while running, so do not try to run out of buildings while still shaking under your feet. Do not use elevators.

（2） Like outdoors. Squat down in place and transfer to an open area in a safe situation, protect your head and neck, and grab onto objects firmly. The biggest danger outdoors is buildings, especially entrances or exterior walls. Stay away from buildings, bridges, billboards, trees, streetlights, and electrical wires. If you are on a riverbank or by the sea, you should leave as soon as possible.

（3） As if driving. Park the car at a safe location on the roadside as soon as possible, turn on the emergency indicator lights, and stay inside the car until the earthquake stops. Avoid parking near buildings, trees, overpasses, and power lines, and do not drive into long bridges, tunnels, or embankments. After the earthquake stops, one should proceed cautiously.

（4） Like being trapped. Call for help with your phone, tap on pipes or walls, or whistle to attract the attention of rescue personnel and help locate them. Cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief or clothing. Unless absolutely necessary, do not shout for help to avoid inhaling dust easily. Do not use fire.

3、 Forest fires

Many arid regions in the United States, especially in the West, are prone to bushfires during the summer and autumn seasons due to high temperatures. When the weather is dry and the wind is strong, the fire in the bushes spreads very quickly. Pay attention to local media reports on such fire incidents and follow the response suggestions of relevant government departments.

（1） Pay attention to fire warning

Pay attention to the fire weather warning information released by the National Weather Service of the United States. If there is a fire in the area, you can visit the National Forest Service of the United States（ https://www.fs.usda.gov ）The National Interdisciplinary Fire Protection Center of the United States（ https://www.nifc.gov ）Follow up on the latest developments of the fire according to the local fire department website or media reports.

（2） Actively prevent fires

Choose an area with no fire hazards when purchasing a house. Check the fire prevention measures of the house. Apply for house fire insurance, prepare an escape plan in case of jungle fire, and strictly comply with local laws and regulations on outdoor fire use.

（3） Properly respond to fires

In case of a forest fire, call the police in a timely manner. Evacuate promptly according to the guidance of the local government fire department. When encountering a fire, first ensure the safety of life, evacuate in a timely manner, and do not be greedy for property.

FDA

1、 Public Health

Pay close attention to the local public health situation in the United States, take personal precautions, and pay attention to the following matters:

（1） Obtain epidemic prevention knowledge from authoritative channels. The website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States（ https://www.cdc.gov ）Release and update the authoritative information on local health issues and prevention guidelines, and set up special guidance plates for COVID-19, influenza, monkeypox, etc.

（2） Follow relevant travel safety reminders. Pay attention to safety tips from local governments and schools, do not go to areas with high incidence of diseases, and reduce unnecessary group activities. Search the websites of various state health departments in the United States（ https://www.cdc.gov/cdc-info/index.html ）Obtain relevant information.

（3） If you feel unwell, please seek medical attention promptly. Emergency departments can call 911 and inform you of the symptoms.

The phone numbers of health departments in various states in the United States can be found through the following link. （ https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/COVID-19_CAREKit_MAND.pdf ）.

2、 Food safety

The food hygiene standards in the United States are relatively strict, but food safety issues cannot be ignored. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 48 million people in the United States become ill each year due to food hygiene issues, 120000 require hospitalization, and 3000 die. It is recommended to thoroughly clean all food, whether organic or conventional, domestically grown or imported, with running water before consumption. For fruits that require peeling, they should also be thoroughly cleaned before peeling; For agricultural products such as fruits and melons, a cleaning brush should be used to scrub them; For dried fruit products, towels or tissues can be used for cleaning. For food safety knowledge and related policies, please refer to the website of the US Food and Drug Administration（ https://www.fda.gov ）.

Urgent Help

The emergency hotline in the United States is "911", covering various situations such as medical emergency, fire alarm, and police robbery.

Global Consular Protection and Service Emergency Hotline of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (24 hours):+86-10-12308 or+86-10-65612308

Consular Protection and Assistance Hotline of the Chinese Embassy in the United States:

Embassy in the United States:+ 1-202-4952216

Consulate General in New York:+ 1-212-6953125

Consulate General in San Francisco:+ 1-415-9296998

Consulate General in Los Angeles:+ 1-213-8078052

Consulate General in Chicago:+ 1-312-3973015

Safety reminder

Remind Chinese citizens in the United States to pay attention to safety（http://www.china-embassy.org/chn/lszj/zytz/    ）

Reminders on telecommunications fraud, virtual kidnapping, travel safety, etc. can be found on the website of the Chinese Embassy in the United States.

air traffic

Taking a plane is the main mode of transportation in the United States. Several domestic and American airlines have opened direct flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong to major cities on the east and west coasts and in the central and western regions of the United States. For specific real-time flight information, please refer to the local airport website or airline website, or contact the travel agency. Entering and exiting airports in the United States can usually be done by taking a taxi, renting a car, or driving a private car. Some airports have direct shuttle buses or subways.

The main airports in the United States include: New York John Fitzgerald Kennedy International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, Portland International Airport, Seattle Tacoma International Airport, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport Chicago O'Hare International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, etc. For detailed information on airports, please visit their respective websites.

The main airlines in the United States include United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and others.

land transport

1、 Highway

Long distance buses in the United States are widely popular for their speed, comfort, and affordability. The widest route is Greyhound long-distance bus company, which can also reach Canada in addition to domestic destinations in the United States.

Except for convenient bus routes in big cities such as New York, many other places have fewer routes and schedules, or even none at all.

Renting a car in the United States is very convenient, and you can choose to travel by car. The main chain car rental companies in the United States include Hertz, Dollar, National, Avis, Enterprise, etc., located in major airports and cities throughout the country. Regarding the recognition of foreign driver's licenses, regulations vary in different states of the United States. It is recommended to carefully check local traffic regulations before traveling. For relevant policies, please refer to the US Government Information Service website（ https://www.usa.gov/non-citizen-driving ）Understood. If driving, please be sure to thoroughly understand and strictly comply with local traffic regulations, and pay attention to driving safety. Special reminder on the following matters:

（1） Drivers and passengers in the front and rear rows must wear seat belts, and children are prohibited from sitting in the front row and must use safety seats (specific regulations vary by state).

（2） Be careful to avoid pedestrians and yield to other vehicles. Do not exceed the speed limit or rush into the lane, and try to avoid honking unless absolutely necessary. If there is a "STOP" stop sign at the intersection, you must stop and pass through in order after confirming safety.

（3） Avoid fatigue, speeding, and drunk driving, and it is best to have alternative drivers for long-distance driving.

（4） Do not store important or valuable items such as passports and wallets in the car, and do not leave children or pets alone in the car.

（5） It is best to carry an electronic navigation system for self driving and to be aware of weather and road conditions in advance. Try to drive on the main streets and avoid driving at night or in adverse weather conditions such as thunderstorms and heavy snow. Do not drive to sparsely populated or unlit roads. If you get lost, do not park on the roadside casually. You can go to the nearby gas station for help.

（6） If a traffic accident occurs, please record the following information: the time and location of the accident, the name, address, phone number, driver's license number, license plate number, car model of the other party's driver and owner, the number of people in the other party's car, the name of the other party's insurance company, policy number, etc., for the purpose of claiming compensation. If there are witnesses, be sure to record their names, addresses, and phone numbers. Major accidents should be reported to the 911 hotline. It is recommended to purchase personal accident insurance, medical insurance, and vehicle insurance before driving.

2、 Other

In addition, you can also choose to travel by train, subway, taxi, bus and other means. Please note the following:

（1） Pay attention to personal money and belongings, keep an eye on the movements inside the car, and notify the driver immediately if any abnormalities are found.

（2） When waiting for the train, do not get too close to the subway platform or road to ensure safety. Choose to wait for the bus at night in a well lit area.

（3） If there are few passengers in the car, try to choose a seat close to the driver.

（4） Passengers taking the subway and bus should swipe their card to board the bus. Failure to swipe your card to board the bus is illegal in the United States and may result in fines or police arrests. Do not use emergency doors to enter the station without authorization.

（5） Eating and drinking are generally prohibited in subway cars, please pay attention to compliance.

water communication

Water transportation is not the main mode of transportation in the United States. Ships are generally used for cargo transportation or tourism. Many states in the southern United States are adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, with numerous ports and terminals, and many cruise ships traveling between the United States and Caribbean countries.

Urban transportation

You can log in to the official US travel website（ https://www.visittheusa.com/ ）Refer to introductions of various states and cities in the United States, as well as relevant travel guides.

major city

1、 Washington, DC

Washington D.C., abbreviated as DC, is the capital of the United States of America. It is a federal government territory and does not belong to any of the 50 autonomous states. DC is the political center of the United States, where the highest legislative, executive, and judicial bodies of the country are located. It is also the location of embassies in the United States and international organizations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. The population of DC is approximately 702450 (2018), with 47.7% being black, 40.7% being white, and 3.8% being Asian.

DC is not only the political center of the United States, but also holds a pivotal position on a global scale. Every message generated here will have varying degrees of impact on different parts of the world. DC also has the world's largest museum complex - the Smithsonian Institution (with a total of 19 museums, galleries, and a national zoo), and famous universities such as Georgetown University, George Washington University, and American University.

2、 New York City

New York is located in the northeast of the United States, facing the Atlantic Ocean, with an area of approximately 789 square kilometers and a population of over 8 million, including nearly 800000 overseas Chinese. It consists of five administrative districts (Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Stanton Island). Except for the Bronx, all districts are islands connected by cross district bridges and underwater tunnels. New York is a natural harbor with convenient water, land, and air transportation. It has hundreds of major dock berths, approximately 10000 kilometers of roads, and three major airports. New York has immigrants from more than 100 countries and regions, mainly Europeans, Africans, Hispanics, Asians and Jews. It is a multi-ethnic and cultural "melting pot", which is the epitome of the United States. Americans nicknamed it the "Big Apple".

New York is a world-renowned international metropolis and financial and trade center, with convenient transportation and developed economy. The United Nations headquarters, nearly 200 permanent diplomatic missions, and over 100 national (or regional) consular representative offices are located here. There are over 200 foreign banks. The headquarters of all three national television networks in the United States are located in New York.

3、 Boston (Boston)

Boston is located in the northeast of the United States, adjacent to the Massachusetts Bay in the Atlantic Ocean, at the mouth of the Charles River and the Misty River. It is the largest port city in New England and the capital of Massachusetts. Boston has 77 towns under its jurisdiction, with a city area of 124 square kilometers. The population of the Greater Boston area is about 4 million, with over 200000 overseas Chinese.

Boston has a developed economy with a focus on finance, banking, insurance, business, and investment management. It has the Federal Reserve Bank of New England and is the financial and insurance center of the northeastern United States. The main industries in Boston include food, clothing, printing and publishing, metalworking, and electronic computers.

Boston is one of the most important cultural cities in the United States, with many famous universities such as Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston University, Northeastern University, Boston College, etc.

4、 San Francisco

Chinese people call it San Francisco, located on the San Francisco Peninsula on the west coast of California, with an area of 121.73 square kilometers. Surrounded by water on three sides and beautiful environment, it is a mountain city. The climate is warm in winter and cool in summer, and the sun is abundant. It is known as "the most popular city for Americans". The Spanish discovered this place in 1769 and joined the United States in 1848. The population of the city is about 870000, including 250000 Chinese. The commonly referred San Francisco Bay Area refers to the general term for the nine neighboring counties, including San Francisco, with a total population of 8.7 million, including approximately 610000 Chinese. San Francisco is an important international trade center and a financial hub on the West Coast of the United States. The finance and banking industry is one of the important pillars of its economic development. Out of the 500 major companies in the United States, this city accounts for 10. The city has a developed service industry, among which tourism is the primary industry, attracting about 26.5 million tourists in 2019. Since 2014, due to California law classifying criminal acts such as smashing and theft with a value not exceeding $950 as misdemeanors, there have been frequent cases of smashing and theft in San Francisco, resulting in many tourists suffering property losses. According to statistics, there were 25667 cases of car smash and theft in San Francisco in 2019, with an average of 70 cases per day.

5、 Las Vegas

Derived from the Spanish word for 'fertile valley', it is located in the only valley area in Nevada surrounded by desolate desert and semi desert regions with springs. It covers an area of 293 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 640000. The climate is dry with little rainfall, hot in summer, and cold with frequent sandstorms in winter. In 1829, Mexican merchants discovered this huge valley and began to settle here. In 1854, Las Vegas was first established by a group of Mormons who migrated to the area. In 1890, the Union Pacific Railroad opened up and gradually prospered here. The city was officially established in 1905. The construction of the Hoover Dam in 1930 and the abundant supply of water and electricity also promoted the development of the city of Las Vegas. In 1931, the Nevada Legislature passed a bill legalizing gambling. In 1946, a large casino appeared in Las Vegas. In the 1950s, it developed into a famous tourist destination with gambling as its characteristic, and in the 1960s, a desert resort was established. The urban economy mainly relies on the tourism industry, receiving over 39.05 million visitors in 2019.

6、 Portland

Also known as the 'City of Roses', it is the largest city, commercial and economic center in Oregon. The city is located at the confluence of the Willamette River and the Columbia River, with a total area of 376.5 square kilometers and a population of approximately 650000. The population of the Greater Portland area is approximately 2.48 million. The city is warm and humid in winter and hot and dry in summer. The average annual rainfall is 1119 millimeters. Before the 1890s, the city was once the largest port in the Northwest Pacific region of the United States, but was later replaced by Seattle. The per capita number of parks in this city is the highest in the United States, and Forest Park is the largest wildlife park in the urban area, covering an area of approximately 5000 hectares. The city also has the smallest park in the world, with an area of only 0.3 square meters. The beer industry is well-developed and it is the city with the largest number of breweries in the world.

7、 Seattle

Also known as "Emerald City," it is located in Phuket Bay in the western Pacific Ocean of Washington State, 154 kilometers north of the US Canada border, with a land area of 218 square kilometers and a population of approximately 740000. The metropolitan area has a population of 3.5 million, including approximately 150000 Chinese. Seattle is surrounded by mountains and water, with a mild climate and a large temperature difference between day and night. It is sunny and dry in summer, and rainy in autumn and winter. The city was originally a settlement of Native Americans and was founded in 1869, named after the Native American chief Seattle. The 1897 Alaska Gold Rush spurred rapid urban development. After World War II, it became a developed industrial city and is now a financial, service, high-tech manufacturing, cultural and educational, and transportation hub in Washington State and the northwest region of the United States. Industries such as aerospace, computer software, biotechnology, and electronic communication are in a leading position. Microsoft, Boeing, Starbucks, Amazon, Costco, and other companies are headquartered in the Greater Seattle area.

8、 Anchorage

Located at the top of Cook Inlet in central southern Alaska, it is the largest city in the state. It was established in 1914 as the headquarters for the construction of the Alaska Railroad. The English name means "parking", with an area of 5000 square kilometers and a population of approximately 290000. In 1964, a 9.2-magnitude earthquake occurred, and due to the vast area and sparse population, only 9 people died directly from the earthquake, causing severe damage to the city. After reconstruction, it expanded and gradually developed into a center for trade, fisheries, and wood processing in the state, a winter sports destination, and a transit point for tourism to other areas of the state. After World War II, with the rapid development of the global aviation industry, its unique geographical advantage (travel time to most cities in the world is about 9 hours) was utilized, and many international flights stopped and refueled here, known as the "crossroads on global routes". After the opening of the Arctic route in the 1990s, the number of international flights stopping for refueling sharply decreased, and the airport fell into a depression for a period of time. In the 21st century, the airport successfully transformed and rapidly expanded its cargo business with specialized logistics facilities and efficient and high-quality services. In 2005, it developed into the world's third largest cargo airport, second only to Memphis in the United States and Hong Kong in China. Currently, nearly 35% of the airport's international cargo volume comes from the Chinese market.

9、 Los Angeles

Located in southern California, facing the Pacific Ocean to the west, with an area of 1215 square kilometers and a population of approximately 4 million, it is the largest city in the western United States, the second largest metropolitan area after New York, and the second largest industrial, commercial, and financial center in the United States. It is the seat of the county government of Los Angeles, the largest county in terms of population and output value in the United States. Surrounded by mountains and waters, it is sunny all year round, with a mild climate and an average of only 35 rainy days per year. The main industries are international trade, entertainment, aviation, oil, high-tech, fashion, tourism, etc. The main tourist attractions include Universal Studios, Disneyland, Beverly Hills, etc. The urban area is vast, the layout is scattered, the transportation is developed, and the highways and city streets crisscross, making it an important port in the United States. There are renowned universities such as the University of California, Los Angeles, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

10、 San Diego

Located in the southernmost part of California, at the southwest corner of the mainland United States, adjacent to Mexico to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the west, with an area of 840 square kilometers and a population of 1.42 million, it is the second largest city in California and the eighth largest city in the United States. It is an important port and military base in the United States. The climate is mild and the sunshine is abundant, making it one of the most pleasant regions in the United States. It is an important high-tech base in the United States, with famous marine research institutes and astronomical observatories. The military industry, aviation, transportation, shipbuilding, and tourism industries are developed. In recent years, the biotechnology, electronics, software, and communication industries have developed rapidly.

11、 Phoenix City

Also known as Phoenix, it is the capital and political, economic, cultural, and technological center of Arizona, with a population of 1.66 million (2019), making it the fifth largest city in the United States. The climate is warm and dry, making it an ideal destination for tourism, recuperation, and retirement settlement. The architecture in the city is beautiful, with both tradition and modernity coexisting. The main industries include service industry, aerospace industry, electronics industry, arms industry, etc. Abundant in cotton, vegetables, citrus fruits, etc.

12、 Honolulu

Located in the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu Island is the capital and political, cultural, financial, military, educational, and tourism center of Hawaii. Located at the crossroads of the North Pacific, it is a hub for sea and air transportation. The area is 177.2 square kilometers, with a total population of approximately 360000 (2019). The majority of residents are of Asian descent (55%).

The tourism industry is the economic pillar of Tanshi, receiving 3 to 4 million tourists annually. The industry is mainly based on light industry, with more important sectors including sugar production, canning, port machinery, ship repair, publishing and printing, cement, clothing, handicrafts, etc. Its deep-water port is a stop for ships crossing the Pacific Ocean, and most of the state's food, fuel, and industrial supplies are imported through this port. The urban area is connected to various towns on Oahu Island by highways.

13、 Houston

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States, located in Texas and renowned worldwide for its energy (especially oil and gas), medical center, aviation industry, and canals. Houston Port is the seventh largest port in the world and the busiest port in the United States, with the highest tonnage of foreign ships. There are 25 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Houston, ranking third in the United States after New York and Chicago in terms of number. Houston is the location of the world's largest medical center, the Texas Medical Center, and a hub for the world's largest and most important research and treatment institutions. Houston still has the lowest living expenses and housing prices among the 27 major metropolitan areas in the United States (with a population of over 1.7 million). Houston, also known as "Space City," is the location of the Johnson Space Center and the United States Space Mission Monitoring Center. Houston is a multicultural city where many immigrant communities have developed. The art museum area is a gathering place for many cultural institutions and exhibitions, attracting about seven million visitors annually. Active visual performance arts can often be seen in Houston.

14、 Dallas

Dallas is the third largest city in Texas and the ninth largest city in the United States. Dallas, along with Fort Worth and Arlington, forms the Dallas Fort Worth Arlington urban agglomeration, which is the fourth largest metropolitan area in the United States, covering 12 counties with a total population of 7.4 million people (2017 data). Dallas was founded in 1814 and officially established as a city in 1856. Its main economic pillars are the petroleum industry, telecommunications, computer technology, banking, and air transportation. Dallas is located inland in the United States, lacking water transportation routes, and its thriving economy comes from its strong oil and cotton industries. In addition, Dallas is located on several railway and highway lines, with well-developed land transportation. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport has direct flights to Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

15、 San Antonio

San Antonio is the second largest city in Texas and the seventh largest city in the United States. The climate in Shengshi City is mild, with over 300 days of high air and cool weather throughout the year, and an average annual temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius. Holy City has Intercontinental Highways 10, 35, and 37, and a well-developed metropolitan highway network, ranking second in the United States. Holy City is still one of the major tourist cities in the United States, receiving over 10 million visitors annually and often hosting large conferences.

16、 Miami

Miami is located at the southern end of the Florida Peninsula and is an international metropolis with important positions in finance, commerce, media, entertainment, art, and international trade. It is the headquarters of many companies, banks, and television stations. Miami is located at the hub of Central and South America as well as North America, with well-developed sea, land, and air transportation. Miami is a tourist resort located in a subtropical climate with beautiful coastal scenery. The continuous white sand beaches occupy a quarter of the total length of beaches in the United States, and the peak season for tourism is from October to March of the following year.

17、 Atlanta

Atlanta is the capital and largest commercial and industrial city of Georgia, located in the southeastern United States on a plateau at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains at an altitude of 350 meters. It is one of the three major highland cities in the United States. Atlanta is not only a historic city, but also an emerging industrial, commercial, cultural, and healthcare center. It was built in 1836 as a railway terminal and was a strategic location for the Confederate Army during the Civil War (1861-1865). As a land and air transportation hub and financial center in the southeastern United States, Atlanta has developed rapidly in the past two decades with the northward migration of industry, commerce, and population. It has industries such as airplanes, automobiles, fibers, machinery, steel, and food. The headquarters of CNN and Coca Cola Company are located here. Atlanta hosted the 26th Summer Olympics in 1996 and is the hometown of American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. It has a developed tourism industry and multiple museums and parks.

18、 New Orleans

New Orleans is the largest city in Louisiana and the second largest port city in the United States after New York. It is located in the southeastern part of Louisiana, at the mouth of the lower Mississippi River, facing Lake Pontchartrain to the north. New Orleans is a famous tourist destination in the United States, and as the birthplace of the North American "Mardi Gras," the New Orleans Carnival is renowned throughout the country. There are many festivals, big and small, such as jazz music festivals, and visitors come all year round. There is a famous French architectural district in the city, which includes entertainment facilities such as theaters, music halls, clubs, and many famous French restaurants, attracting a large number of tourists every year.

19、 Chicago (Chicago)

Chicago is the largest city in the Midwest region, located in the northeast corner of Illinois, on the southwest coast of Lake Michigan. It covers an area of 606.2 square kilometers and has a population of over 2.7 million, second only to New York and Los Angeles, making it the third largest city in the United States. Chicago, along with 14 surrounding counties, constitutes the Greater Chicago Area with a population of approximately 9.5 million, including around 100000 overseas Chinese.

Chicago is one of the important industrial, financial, and commercial centers in the United States, with 86 countries having consulates general, over 30 international chambers of commerce, and more than 100 foreign trade organizations settled here. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange is the world's largest commodity futures exchange, and the Chicago Stock Exchange is the second largest securities exchange in the United States. The McCormick Convention Center has a booth area of 250000 square meters, and about 70 exhibitions are held in Chicago every year, with a total of more than 3 million attendees. Chicago has a developed tourism industry and is the second most popular tourist city in the United States after New York. Popular attractions include Lake Michigan, Millennium Park, Willis Tower, Art Museum of Chicago, Navy Pier, Field Museum, and more. The Chicago area has 82 colleges and universities that offer bachelor's degrees and above, with a complete range of disciplines and an annual graduate population of 145000. Among them, the University of Chicago and Northwestern University are the most prestigious. Chicago is also one of the important research and development centers in the United States, with 1200 research and development institutions and laboratories, among which the most prestigious are Argonne National Laboratory and Fermi National Laboratory.

20、 Philadelphia

Philadelphia is located on the Delaware River in Pennsylvania, northeastern United States, with an area of approximately 336 square kilometers and a population of about 1.5 million, including about 100000 overseas Chinese. Philadelphia Port is one of the largest estuarine ports in the world. Since the 19th century, the railway, port, and manufacturing industries have developed rapidly, and the economy has now transformed into an important economic city in the eastern United States, with information industry, scientific research and finance, and insurance industry as the main industries. Philadelphia International Airport is located southwest of the city center and ranks among the top in terms of passenger and cargo volume in China.

Philadelphia is one of the oldest and historically significant cities in the United States. During the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention were held here. It was the capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800 and holds an important position in American history. There are many universities in Philadelphia, with famous ones including the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University.

Commodity prices

1、 Currency and Banking Affairs

The currency unit of the United States is the dollar ($), with seven denominations of paper currency: 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1. There are six types of coins: dollar coin, half dollar, quarter, dime, nickel, and penny.

Credit cards are widely used in the United States. Banks, credit card companies, gasoline companies, department stores, and even some utilities and car manufacturers issue credit cards. Except for major credit cards such as VISA/Mastercard/JCB/Diners Club National/American Express, ATM machines in the United States generally accept China UnionPay services. Please try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash when going out, and it is recommended to use credit cards for consumption. Money Order can usually be purchased at post offices or street convenience stores (such as CVS) as a supplementary payment method that does not accept cash and credit card payments. In addition, electronic payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also quite common.

2、 Shopping consumption

In most cities in the United States, commercial districts are located in the downtown area of the city center, where large commercial institutions are also concentrated. Suburban areas in the United States (referring to areas near metropolitan areas) often have large "shopping centers" or malls, supermarkets, and pharmacies. In the United States, certain conditions must be met when entering certain occasions or purchasing certain items. You must be at least 21 years old to drink alcoholic beverages. When making a purchase, you are usually required to present identification documents with your name and photo (such as passport, driver's license, etc.).

medical insurance

1、 Precautions

Medical treatment in the United States is expensive. It is recommended that individuals traveling to the United States purchase travel and medical insurance on their own before going abroad, and pay attention to distinguishing different concepts such as accident insurance, medical insurance, and special insurance, and have a detailed understanding of the claims process. In the United States, wild animals such as bats may transmit epidemics and rabies, while other infectious diseases include Rocky Mountain spotted fever, rabbit disease, encephalitis originating from arthropods, seasonal influenza, hepatitis A, etc. There are also cases of valley fever in the United States, mostly occurring in the southwestern region (Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah), with the majority in Arizona and California. In recent years, the incidence rate of foodborne diseases such as enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli and salmonellosis has increased in some areas. Other diseases include being bitten by venomous snakes and being pricked by poisonous ivy. In the northern region, low temperatures in winter may cause frostbite.

2、 Medical Overview

The overall level of medical conditions in the United States is relatively high, with well-equipped facilities. The institutions that provide medical care mainly include hospitals, doctor's clinics, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, specialized diagnosis and treatment centers, and pharmacies. Large hospitals are equipped with advanced medical testing equipment and operating rooms, mainly providing medical services for emergency patients and major difficult patients. Ordinary patients usually go to the doctor's clinic in the community for medical treatment. Community doctor clinics have the characteristics of small scale, large quantity, wide distribution, and convenient medical treatment. They usually provide basic medical services such as comprehensive physical examination, disease follow-up, family health care, general internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedic surgery, ophthalmology, etc.

American drugs are divided into prescription drugs and non prescription drugs. Purchasing prescription drugs requires a prescription from a doctor, and prescription drugs must be sold by licensed pharmacists working in the pharmacy. Some supermarkets and discount stores also have pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter drugs such as aspirin or common cold medicine that do not require a doctor's prescription. Overall, commonly used drugs can be purchased locally.

3、 Medical insurance

The healthcare insurance system in the United States consists of social healthcare insurance and private healthcare insurance. Due to the high cost of medical treatment in the United States, individuals will find it difficult to afford the huge medical expenses without purchasing insurance. Therefore, many people participate in both social and private medical insurance.

（1） Social medical insurance

Provided by the US Department of Health and Human Services, aimed at US citizens and permanent residents. Mainly includes Medicare, which provides medical insurance for elderly people aged 65 and above. The medical insurance program is managed by the federal government and policies are unified among states; Medicaid provides health insurance to low-income individuals in the United States. Under the guidance of the federal government, each state formulates its own insurance standards and content.

（2） Private medical insurance

Commercial medical insurance companies are mostly privately operated, and their various plans make up for the limitations of government medical insurance plans on the enjoyment of medical services by the population, meeting the needs of different levels of the population. Private medical insurance is often used as a non wage benefit, with employers paying insurance premiums for employees (Employer Provided Insurance), and some people purchasing private medical insurance themselves.

（3） Health insurance for international students in the United States

Although the US government does not require F-1 and M-1 visa holders to purchase health insurance, the Federal Regulations Code (22 CFR 62.14) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-22/chapter-I/subchapter-G/part-62/subpart-A/section-62.14 ）Make clear regulations on the insurance coverage for exchange visiting scholars holding J-1 visas. Meanwhile, many educational institutions mandate that foreign students must purchase health insurance. For specific insurance policies, please consult the international student or international affairs office of your university or educational institution studying in the United States.

Customs taboos

1、 Common Etiquette

In public places, show courtesy to women, children, and the elderly, and consciously queue up; When using stairs or riding a rolling escalator, one should walk or stand on the right side; Drink alcohol in moderation and avoid causing trouble after drinking; Avoid loud noises; Do not walk in rows with several people on the road or corridor; When opening or closing the door, pay attention to the person behind you. If there is anyone, hold down the door and wait; Do not cut in line; Do not smoke in non-smoking areas while walking, and it is strictly prohibited to spit everywhere; Do not litter, take care of flowers, plants and trees; Do not casually ask others personal questions such as age, marriage, family, property, salary, etc; Respect the cultural customs of different races and ethnic groups (such as dress, language, behavior, etc.).

2、 Dress code customs

When going to work or attending a banquet, it is important to understand the dress code requirements in advance and prioritize what is appropriate for the occasion. For example, when attending a funeral, one should wear black or plain clothes; Enter places such as churches and avoid wearing revealing clothing.

3、 Dietary etiquette

When dining in a Western restaurant, start with the outermost pair of knives and forks. The food should be pressed tightly with the fork and cut into small pieces for consumption; Avoid making noise in the restaurant, do not make too much noise during meals, and use a small spoon for mixing milk and sugar while drinking coffee.

4、 Tipping

Tipping is a culture in the United States and is also considered a social etiquette. Services such as restaurants, haircuts, beauty treatments, moving, cleaning, repairs, parking, hotels, and tourism all require tipping. When traveling, studying, working, and living in the United States, one should follow local customs, respect local culture, and pay tips according to local habits. Otherwise, not only is it impolite, but in some extreme cases, it may even lead to conflicts.

The tips for restaurants, beauty salons, and hairdressers are generally 15% -20% of the consumption amount. The tips for airport and hotel luggage handling are generally $1-2 per piece. The tips for room service are $3-5 per day. The tips for taxis are around 15% -20% of the fare. For tour groups and guides, the tips are usually $5-10 per day.

Communications Power

1、 Power supply

The standard power supply voltage in the United States is 110 volts and 60 hertz. The American socket has two flat heads for two phases and one round for three phases. You can purchase an American converter socket in China before departure.

The United States has developed advanced communication. The telephone numbers in the United States are all ten digits, of which seven digits are the basic call number, and the first three digits are the "area code". Each 'area' has a wide jurisdiction, sometimes even including the entire state. In some states, especially in certain metropolitan areas where there are a large number of telecommunications users, making calls requires simultaneously dialing a three digit area code and a seven digit receiving number. For general local calls, dial the area code and phone number, and do not dial the area code when calling each other within the same area. Add "1" before the ten digit phone number for long-distance calls. International call dial 011+country code+region code+phone number. Telephone and Internet operators mainly include AT&T, T-mobile, Verizon, COMCAST, etc.

2、 Postal Service

The United States postal code is a five digit code used to indicate which postal zone the address is located in. Every city in the United States has a post office, while larger cities have several full-service postal branches and limited service postal offices or points. Postal points are sometimes attached to a certain store or grocery store. Many universities have set up a post office or postal service point somewhere on campus. These types of post offices and postal points sell stamps and provide minimal postal services, such as mailing letters and parcels to various parts of the United States. There are restrictions on the weight and size of packages sent through the United States Postal Service. Specific fees and restrictions can be found at the post office. For more information, please refer to the US Government Information Services website（ https://www.usa.gov/agencies/u-s-postal-service ）.

3、 Express delivery

The main commercial express delivery companies in the United States include USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc. You can track your package, provide online services, and check your business outlets through the courier company's website.

contact information

Fire, police, and emergency hotline: 911

Number inquiry desk (English): 411