2026 Canton Fair Buyer Badge: 2 Docs Paths & Replacement

Determine Your Path and Prepare Documents

First, determine which path you are on before preparing your documents. The two official paths have different checklists, so don't mix them into a single list.

1. If you have pre-registered online and plan to collect your pass at a remote point or at the venue, follow these steps: Open your pre-registration record, save the receipt or buyer QR code, and bring the original documents to the designated collection point. You will need the pre-registration receipt, your original valid ID, and a business card. This is based on the 138th session's guidelines, so always check the current session's notice from the official 138th session guide.
2. If you are applying through the Canton Fair Hong Kong office, confirm the Hong Kong channel, submit your application as instructed, and collect your pass as notified. You will need your original valid ID, a recent 5cm×4cm photo, and a business card. Follow the official Canton Fair Hong Kong office instructions.
3. If you are unsure which path you are on, prepare both sets of documents: the pre-registration receipt, your original valid ID, a business card, and an additional 5cm×4cm photo. This ensures you are ready for either path, but do not treat the photo as a universal requirement.

Your entry credential is valid for multiple sessions if it is still in good condition. There is no need to reapply every session. For more details, see Canton Fair invitation letter and China visa routes.

Path B: Applying Through the Hong Kong Office

Prepare the following three items separately, and do not use the pre-registration checklist:

1. Original valid ID: This can be a foreign passport, Hong Kong/Macau travel permit, Taiwan compatriot certificate, or a Chinese passport with a valid overseas work visa.
2. Recent photo: Size 5cm×4cm, placed in a protective sleeve.
3. Business card: At least one physical card that can be submitted.

Remember: For the pre-registration path, look for the 'receipt'; for the Hong Kong office path, look for the '5cm×4cm photo'. For more details, see the official Canton Fair Hong Kong office instructions.

On-Site: Self-Service Machines and Manual Counters

At the 138th session, the B, C, and D areas of the venue had both self-service machines and manual counters. Here’s how to navigate them:

1. If you have completed pre-registration and have all three documents, go to the Buyer Badge self-service area, retrieve your receipt or QR code, and follow the machine prompts to verify and collect your pass. If the machine cannot read your documents, keep the screen and switch to the manual counter.
2. If you are unsure about your path, present your receipt and original ID to the staff and enter the manual queue. Do not guess the required documents at the self-service machine.
3. If you hold a Chinese passport with a valid overseas work visa, bring your passport and visa, and prioritize the manual counter at the venue. Do not rely solely on airport or hotel self-service machines. For more details, see the official Canton Fair Hong Kong office instructions.
4. If you have an old pass, ensure it is the latest one and bring it along with your passport. Old passes can be used across sessions unless they have been replaced. For more details, see the official Canton Fair Hong Kong office instructions.

24-Hour Pre-Departure Checklist

Before you leave, complete the following checks:

1. Open your pre-registration record and ensure you can access the receipt or QR code offline.
2. Place your original valid ID in your carry-on bag, not in checked luggage.
3. Include at least one business card. If you are using the Hong Kong office path, also include a 5cm×4cm photo.
4. Find the current session's collection notice and verify the terminal, gate, station, hotel, and venue area.
5. Locate your old pass. If you have a replacement, bring only the most recent one.
6. Set aside a budget for replacement fees (200 RMB or 250 HKD per pass), but do not count this as part of the initial registration cost. For more details, see the official Canton Fair Hong Kong office instructions.

What it looks like

Frequently asked

What if I am unsure which path I should follow?

Prepare both sets of documents: the pre-registration receipt, your original valid ID, a business card, and an additional 5cm×4cm photo. This ensures you are ready for either path.

Can I use my old pass from a previous session?

Yes, if it is in good condition and has not been replaced. Otherwise, you will need to get a new one.

What is the fee for replacing a lost or forgotten pass?

The replacement fee is 200 RMB or 250 HKD per pass. This is not the initial registration fee.

Where can I find the current session's collection points?

Check the official Canton Fair website for the latest session's notice, which will list the terminals, gates, stations, and venues.

Do I need to bring a 5cm×4cm photo if I pre-registered online?

No, you only need a 5cm×4cm photo if you are applying through the Hong Kong office. For online pre-registration, you need the pre-registration receipt, your original valid ID, and a business card.