Consular services and assistance for Canadians in China

Services for Canadians in China

The health, safety and security of our diplomats serving abroad and their families is a priority.

On February 3, 2020, Global Affairs Canada authorized the departure of all non-essential Canadian staff and their dependants from the mainland China mission locations (the Embassy in Beijing and Consulate General offices in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chongqing). This was in addition to the authorized departure of vulnerable individuals and dependant school-aged children and younger announced on January 29, 2020.

Full consular services remain available to Canadians in China.

Canadians in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Embassy of Canada in Beijing at 86 (10) 5139-4000. Canadians can also call the 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613-996-8885 (collect calls are accepted where available) or email sos@international.gc.ca.

Assisted departure for Canadians in Hubei province, China

Chinese authorities have imposed measures in parts of China in order to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Such measures include lockdowns of cities or neighbourhoods, heavy travel restrictions and quarantines. Most airlines have suspended or reduced flights to and from China.

Due to this situation, Canadians in the Hubei province expressed interest in returning to Canada. In response, the Government of Canada chartered and arranged flights departing from Wuhan. The last Government of Canada chartered flight arrived in Trenton, Ontario, on February 11.

We encourage all Canadians in the region to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service. Ensure that your contact information is complete and up to date. This will enable our consular officials to contact you, give you updates and information and confirm your needs.

For our full advice on travelling to or returning from China, please visit our Travel Advice and Advisories for China.