China Guide

Do I need a visa to enter China?

China's visa-free policies allow nationals of eligible countries to travel to China more easily. These policies support tourism, business, and transit with no fees or complex paperwork. Find out whether you are eligible for the visa-free policy referring to the key information listed below (updated July 2025).

However, it’s important to check for updates before you travel. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) of China is the main authority for immigration policies. Official updates are posted on their website and on Chinese embassy websites in each country.

If you want to enjoy a hassle-free tour that maximizes limited time in China, just contact us. We can offer customized suggestions to fit your length of stay and other needs.

 

30-Day Visa-Free Policy

[Updated November 2025] Nationals holding valid ordinary passports of 48 countries are exempted from visa requirement if coming to China for the purpose of business, tourism, family or friends visits, exchange and transit. They can stay in China for no more than 30 days without a visa.

Please always refer to the official release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China for latest information.

Link to FAQs on Visa-free Entry into China:

https://pdf.visaforchina.cn/SYD3_EN/qianzhengyewu/jichuzhishi/changjianwenti/330829747124834304.html

240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

Key points about the visa-free transit policy:

  • Duration: Up to 240 hours (10 days)
  • Eligible countries: 55
  • Ports of entry: 60 ports across 24 provinces
  • Purpose: For travelers transiting through China to a third country or region. Foreign nationals covered by this policy may, within the designated areas, engage in activities like travel activities, business activities, visits, family reunions, etc., during their stay periods. Activities such as work, study, or news reporting still require prior approvals and appropriate visas.
  • Essential documents: Valid international travel documents and onward tickets with confirmed seats and departure dates.

List of 55 Countries

  • Europe (40 countries): Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom
  • North America (2 countries): Canada, United States
  • South America (4 countries): Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico
  • Oceania (2 countries): Australia, New Zealand
  • Asia (7 countries): Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Qatar, Singapore, South Korea, United Arab Emirates

Eligible Ports and Permitted Stay Areas

For more detailed information, including eligibility criteria and application processes, read about the official announcement here: https://en.nia.gov.cn/n147413/c183100/content.html

Useful Links

National Immigration Administration of China: https://en.nia.gov.cn/

Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/wgrlh/

Q&A on Visa-Free Entry into China Under Mutual Visa Exemption Agreements: https://en.nia.gov.cn/n147418/n147463/c183401/content.html

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions on 30-day Unilateral Visa-free Policy: https://pdf.visaforchina.cn/SYD3_EN/qianzhengyewu/jichuzhishi/changjianwenti/330829747124834304.html