Q: Is a passport the only option for foreigners to book train tickets in China?
A: Actually, no. While a valid passport is the primary option for most foreigners, several other documents are officially accepted for purchasing tickets.
You can use the following valid identification documents when purchasing tickets or paying for an extended trip at the railway station's ticket office, ticket agents, or on trains:
(1)Passport
(2)Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
(3)Foreigner's exit-entry permit
(4)Seafarer's certificate
(5)Receipt of acceptance of an application for visa extension or renewal or an application for stay certificate issued by the exit and entry administration authority of the public security organs of China
(6)Passport loss report certificate
Temporary international travel document issued by embassies and consulates in China (with valid visas or stay certificates issued by the exit and entry administration authority of the public security organs of China attached)
Booking tip: You can use your passport or Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card to book tickets online via the official 12306 website, 12306 APP, or booking hotline. If you have a Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card, you can also use the self-service ticket machines at the station; passport holders must use the manual service windows.
(Information updated April 2026)