Venue

Visa Information for Conference Attendees

As an attendee of ICSOC2025 in Shenzhen, you'll need to ensure you have the appropriate visa:

  • Conference/Business Visa (F Visa): Most international conference participants should apply for an F visa through a Chinese embassy or consulate in their home country before departure. You'll need an official invitation letter from the ICSOC2025 organizers.

  • Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of many countries (including most EU members, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, and others) are eligible for visa-free entry to China for up to 30 days.

  • Special Economic Zone Visa On Arrival (SEZ VOA): If you're traveling from Hong Kong or Macau, you may apply for a five-day SEZ VOA at certain border crossings. This visa restricts you to the Shenzhen area only.

For comprehensive and up-to-date visa information, please visit: Visa Requirements for China


Getting to Shenzhen

From Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX)

Shenzhen's main airport serves numerous domestic and international routes. From the airport:

  • Metro: Line 11 connects to downtown Shenzhen in 30 minutes (06:17-00:18)

  • Airport Shuttle Bus: ¥20 to downtown

  • Taxi: ¥100 to Futian, ¥150 to Luohu

  • E-hailing: Services like Didi Chuxing are available at designated pickup areas

From Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

For many international attendees, arriving via Hong Kong might offer more convenient flight connections:

  • Ferry: Direct ferry service from Hong Kong Airport to Shenzhen (Shekou Ferry Terminal or Shenzhen Airport Fuyong Terminal) without passing through Hong Kong immigration or customs. Costs HK$220 to Shekou, HK$295 to Fuyong. This is often the fastest and most convenient option.

  • High-Speed Rail: Take the Airport Express from HKIA to Kowloon, then transfer to West Kowloon Station for the high-speed rail to Shenzhen Futian station. Immigration for both sides is completed at West Kowloon Station.

  • Bus: Take the A43 bus from the airport to Sheung Shui, then transfer to the East Rail Line to Lo Wu/Luohu border crossing.

  • Private Transport: Private limousine services are available from HKIA directly to Shenzhen, typically crossing via the Shenzhen Bay Bridge. Costs from HK$200 upwards.


Conference Information - ICSOC2025

If you require an invitation letter for visa purposes, please contact the ICSOC2025 organizers directly. Be prepared to provide your:

  • Full name as shown in your passport

  • Passport details (number, expiration date, country of issue)

  • Date of birth

  • Contact information

  • Professional affiliation

Remember to register for the conference before requesting an invitation letter.


General Information

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language. English is spoken in major hotels, conference venues, and international business settings.

  • Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB). ATMs are widely available, and many places accept credit cards. Mobile payment via Alipay (支付宝) is extremely common in China - from luxury hotels to street vendors. International visitors can download the Alipay app and link it to a foreign credit card for the duration of their stay. For more information, visit Alipay for International Users.

  • Weather: December in Shenzhen is generally mild and pleasant with temperatures typically ranging from 14-23°C (57-73°F). It's relatively dry compared to summer months, with mostly sunny days. A light jacket or sweater is recommended, especially for evenings.

For any conference-specific arrangements or questions, please contact the ICSOC2025 organizers directly.