Markets · Guangzhou
Canton Fair Invitation Letter and Visa: What First-Time Buyers Actually Need
Learn how to get a free Canton Fair invitation letter, whether you need an M visa, and the best time to register for the fair.
Key Points for First-Time Canton Fair Visitors
The Canton Fair invitation letter is free and automatic when you pre-register. Many visitors do not need an M visa at all. Here’s what you need to know:
1. The invitation letter is generated automatically when you pre-register on the official buyer registration system. It is free and comes with your electronic confirmation.
2. If you are from one of the 48 countries that have a 30-day visa-free entry policy for business purposes, you do not need an M visa. Check the National Immigration Administration's website for the latest list of eligible countries.
3. Pre-registration is free, while on-site registration costs 200 RMB per person and involves long queues. Pre-register to save time and money.
How to Get Your Invitation Letter
To get your invitation letter, follow these steps:
- Go to the official buyer registration system.
- Create a buyer account by filling in your personal, company, and contact details.
- Apply for your badge and check the box to generate an invitation letter simultaneously.
- Wait 3-5 working days for the review process. Once approved, you will receive your electronic invitation letter and confirmation.
The invitation letter will include your name, passport number, company information, and the session you plan to attend. Make sure to print out both the invitation letter and the confirmation for easy access.
Do You Need an M Visa?
Many first-time visitors assume they need an M visa, but this is not always the case. Here’s how to determine if you need one:
- Check if your country is on the 30-day visa-free entry list for business purposes. This includes countries like the UK, most EU countries, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Canada. Visit the National Immigration Administration's website for the most up-to-date list.
- If your country is on the list, you can enter China without an M visa. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay and has enough blank pages.
- If your country is not on the list, you will need to apply for an M visa. For this, you may also need an invitation letter from a Chinese business partner. A company letterhead invitation is often more reliable than the Canton Fair invitation letter.
For detailed M visa requirements, visit the China Visa Application Service Center.
Planning Your Trip to the Canton Fair
Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your trip:
- Pre-register on the official buyer registration system about 3 months before the fair starts. This ensures you have your invitation letter and confirmation in hand.
- If you need an M visa, start the application process 1-2 months before the fair. Gather all required documents, including the invitation letter from a Chinese business partner if needed.
- Plan your travel to arrive in Guangzhou a few days before the fair. This gives you time to collect your badge and familiarize yourself with the area.
- Collect your badge at the airport, a designated hotel, or the buyer service center at the fair. Bring your passport and the confirmation email.
Avoid waiting until the opening day to collect your badge, as the lines can be very long. Collecting it at the airport or a designated hotel upon arrival is usually the most convenient option.
Understanding the Fair Schedule
The Canton Fair is divided into three phases, each focusing on different product categories. Here’s the schedule for the 139th Canton Fair in 2026:
- Phase 1: April 15-19, 2026 - Electronics & Appliances, Machinery, Vehicles & Two-Wheelers, Lighting & Electrical, Hardware & Tools, International Pavilion
- Phase 2: April 23-27, 2026 - Home Decor, Gifts, Building Materials & Furniture, International Pavilion
- Phase 3: May 1-5, 2026 - Toys & Baby Products, Fashion & Apparel, Textiles & Carpets, Stationery, Health & Leisure, Chinese Specialty Products, International Pavilion
Each phase runs from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The venue is located at 382 Yuexiu Zhong Road, Guangzhou, with a postal code of 510335. For more details, visit the official Canton Fair website.
Note the gaps between the phases: April 20-22 and April 28-30. These breaks are ideal for visiting other nearby cities like Foshan for furniture and building materials, or Shenzhen for electronics. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your time in China.
What it looks like
Frequently asked
What if I need to change my registration details after pre-registering?
You can log back into the official buyer registration system and update your details. If you need further assistance, contact the Canton Fair customer support.
Can I use the Canton Fair invitation letter for my M visa application?
While many people use the Canton Fair invitation letter for their M visa application, it is more reliable to have an invitation letter from a Chinese business partner. Check the specific requirements of your local Chinese embassy or consulate.
What should I bring to the fair to collect my badge?
Bring your passport and the confirmation email you received after pre-registering. You can collect your badge at the airport, a designated hotel, or the buyer service center at the fair.
How long does it take to get the invitation letter after pre-registering?
The review process typically takes 3-5 working days. Once approved, you will receive your electronic invitation letter and confirmation via email.
Is there a fee for pre-registering and getting the invitation letter?
No, pre-registration and the invitation letter are free. On-site registration, however, costs 200 RMB per person.
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About this guide
Written and maintained by the China Unboxed team from Shenzhen. We keep guides current and general on purpose — always verify prices and policies against official sources before booking.