What Documents Do You Need to Attend the Canton Fair?

Attending the Canton Fair requires specific documents, which can be divided into two categories: Essential Mandatory Documents and Highly Recommended Supporting Documents.

Here is a complete checklist:

1. Essential Mandatory Documents

These are non-negotiable. You will not be allowed to enter the fair or China without them.

A. Passport

• Validity: Your original passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of departure from China. This is a strict rule.
• Condition: Ensure it has at least 2 blank visa pages.

B. Chinese Visa

• Type: M Visa (Business Visa) – Most Common for Canton Fair 
• How to Get It: You must apply at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your home country or country of residence. The process usually requires:
  • A completed visa application form.
  • A recent passport-sized photo.
  • Your passport.
  • Proof of round-trip flight tickets and hotel reservation (your itinerary).
  • An invitation letter (see below).
• Important: Apply for your visa well in advance (at least 1-2 months before travel), as processing can take time.

C. Canton Fair Invitation Letter

• What it is: This is an official document issued by the Canton Fair organizers that facilitates your visa application and badge pre-registration.
• How to Get It:

• • Go to the official Canton Fair website: www.cantonfair.org.cn
  • Navigate to the "Buyer" section.
  • Click on "Invitation Application" and complete the online application form with your details.
  • Once approved, you will receive the official Invitation Letter via email (a PDF file). Print this out.

• Why You Need It: You must present the printed copy of this invitation letter to obtain your Buyer's Card. It is also a required document for most people's visa application at the Chinese embassy.

D. Buyer's Card

• What it is: This is your physical entry pass to the fairgrounds. You cannot enter without it. It has your name, company, and photo on it.
• How to Get It:

• • Pre-register Online: Use the same Canton Fair website to pre-register for your Buyer's Card before you travel. This saves you from waiting in extremely long lines at the fair.
  • Pick It Up On-Site: Bring your printed Invitation Letter and your passport to the "Buyer Registration" counters at the fairgrounds (or at designated hotels in Guangzhou). They will verify your details and print your card on the spot.

2. Highly Recommended Supporting Documents

Bringing these will make your travel, registration, and business interactions much smoother.

A. Business Cards

• Crucially Important. You will exchange hundreds of these with potential suppliers. Bring a large supply (500+ is not an exaggeration for serious buyers).
• Have them printed in English on one side and Mandarin Chinese on the other. This is a sign of respect and greatly appreciated by Chinese suppliers.

B. Hotel Confirmation & Travel Itinerary

• Have printed copies of your flight confirmations (round-trip) and hotel booking. You may be asked to show these at immigration upon arrival in China.

C. Health & Vaccination Documents

• While no longer mandatory, it's always wise to check the latest health requirements for entry into China from your country before you travel.

D. Map of the Fairgrounds & List of Target Halls/Suppliers

• The fair is enormous. Download the official Canton Fair app and mark the booths you want to visit. Having a plan is essential.

E. A Notebook and Pen

• For taking notes on products, prices, and supplier details on the spot.

Summary Checklist Table

Final Pro Tip: Make photocopies of your passport, visa, and invitation letter. Keep them separate from the originals in your luggage. It also helps to have digital scans saved in your email or on your phone as a backup.

With the right documents in hand, your Canton Fair visit will be smooth and worry-free. If you’d like some local support during the fair, Market Union is always glad to assist with sourcing guidance and supplier connections. Feel free to get in touch with our team before or during the fair.