Visa & Entry to China
Updated October 27, 2026
China has significantly eased its entry policy since 2024, now offering visa-free or transit visa-free access to citizens of most developed countries. Please confirm the applicable policy based on your passport nationality before traveling.
A. Unilateral Visa-Free Stay (up to 30 days)
China currently grants unilateral visa-free entry to ordinary passport holders from 50 countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days for business, tourism, visiting friends and relatives, exchanges, or transit. Major countries include: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, UAE, Brunei, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Russia, UK, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and others.
Validity note: This policy is currently effective through December 31, 2026 (Russia through December 31, 2027; Brunei has no expiry date). Please confirm the latest extension announcements on the official websites of Chinese embassies and consulates before your trip.
B. 240-Hour Transit Visa-Free (up to 10 days)
Holders of ordinary passports from 57 countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, and the above-mentioned European and Asian nations) with confirmed onward tickets (flight/ship/train) to a third country or region may enter visa-free through 65 designated ports of entry across 24 provinces, staying up to 10 days (240 hours) in designated regions for tourism, business, or visiting relatives. Note: Work, study, and news coverage still require a visa in advance.
C. 24-Hour Transit Visa-Free
Travelers of all nationalities holding onward tickets transiting through China to a third country may stay visa-free for up to 24 hours within the port controlled area. If you need to leave the port controlled area, apply for a temporary entry permit from the border inspection authorities.
D. Must-Do Upon Arrival
• Complete the Arrival Card: Fill it out online before arrival or during your flight. Have your passport, return/onward flight ticket, and hotel address ready.
• Accommodation registration: Hotels will register you automatically. If staying at a homestay or with friends/relatives, you (or your host) must register with the local police station within 24 hours (fine up to ¥2,000).