is it true that it takes an hour to clear chinese customs when entering and leaving?

Answer 1

i suppose anyone can have a bad day, remember, chinese are very sober people. just show them what they want to see and there won't be any problems. it's their country, remember that. i've been there 3 times and never had a problem, it could be that they were overworked and underpaid, sound familiar?

Answer 2

In my experience (mainly Beijing) actually, customs is usually pretty quick, unless your baggage looks either very shabby (cardboard boxes) or very expensive. usually if you are clearly non-Chinese, customs will just wave you through.

it's the immigration line that can be a killer (its the one you go through BEFORE you get your luggage), depending on when and where you enter china. In Beijing this line can routinely be about 15-20 minutes. Tip: If the lines are long, watch for immigration police opening new lines. If you see them sit down at an unopen line, rush over, and you might be next! I have done this many times in Beijing.

Answer 3

I have never had any trouble with customs. Most of the time they are fairly quick given the number of people going through at the same time as you. Immigration, however, can take forever, particularly if you have a really slow agent. The best way to get through fast is to not act suspicious and don't declare anything you don't absolutely need to.

Answer 4

Yes or No. It depends on how busy the custom is. On per person base, it is even a little faster than the US custom for visitors.

Answer 5

from personal experience, i've never had any issues...the main time-consuming thing is waiting in immigration to get your stamp. after that you have to wait for your luggage and then just walk thru customs.

Answer 6

yes

Answer 7

yes

Answer 8

Yes it is, been there and my legs went numb waiting around, they cant read english you know.