China Visa-Free Entry Policies (Updated for Early 2026)
China’s visa-free entry framework currently falls into two main categories: unilateral visa-free entry (China grants visa-free access to certain countries) and mutual visa exemption agreements (both sides waive visas under an agreement). In addition, China offers visa-free transit options for short stopovers.
Because visa policies can change, travelers should always confirm the latest requirements with China’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) or the Chinese embassy/consulate before departure.
1) Unilateral Visa-Free Entry (30 Days) — Extended to 31 Dec 2026
China has extended its unilateral visa-free policy for many countries until 24:00 (Beijing Time) on 31 December 2026. Eligible travelers holding ordinary passports may enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for purposes such as business, tourism, visiting relatives/friends, exchange visits, and transit. (国家移民管理局)
Eligible countries (key highlights)
Official lists indicate 47 countries covered under this unilateral 30-day policy (with a special time limit for Russia—see below). (签证中心)
They include (non-exhaustive grouping for readability):
Europe: Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, etc. (签证中心)
Asia & Middle East: Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, etc. (签证中心)
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand (签证中心)
South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay (签证中心)
Special notes
Russia: Unilateral 30-day visa-free entry for Russian ordinary passport holders is valid 15 Sep 2025 to 14 Sep 2026. (签证中心)
United Kingdom (UK): China announced 30-day visa-free travel for UK citizens following high-level talks reported on 29 Jan 2026. (Implementation details should be checked before booking.) (Reuters)
Important reminder: how “30 days” is counted
Under official guidance, the stay duration is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after entry. (国家移民管理局)
If you expect to stay beyond the permitted period, you should apply for an appropriate visa in advance.
2) Mutual Visa Exemption Agreements (Visa Waivers by Treaty)
Separately from unilateral policies, China has signed mutual visa exemption agreements with many countries. Under these agreements, eligible passport holders from both sides may enter visa-free for short stays (conditions vary by country and by passport type). (中国领事服务网)
Popular destinations often mentioned by travelers include (depending on passport type and agreement terms): Thailand, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Maldives, Seychelles, Georgia, and others. The exact rules can differ—some agreements apply to ordinary passports, while others may apply only to diplomatic/service/official passports. (国家移民管理局)
Where to check the full list:
The most authoritative reference is the Consular Service of China (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) “List of Agreements on Mutual Visa Exemption,” as well as the NIA summary table. (中国领事服务网)
3) Visa-Free Transit (Stopover Without a Visa)
China operates a 24-hour visa-free transit arrangement for travelers of all nationalities at eligible ports, provided you meet transit conditions (such as onward tickets and complying with port rules). (国家移民管理局)
In addition, China has expanded and optimized its transit visa-free scheme by extending eligible stays to 240 hours (10 days) for qualifying travelers at designated ports/regions (this builds on earlier “72/144-hour” arrangements and is now commonly referenced as the 240-hour visa-free transit policy). (签证中心)
Because transit eligibility depends on nationality, port of entry, and onward itinerary, travelers should confirm the latest requirements for the specific city/airport they plan to use.
4) Other Visa-Free Scenarios (Regional & Special Documents)
Beyond the categories above, China also allows visa-free entry in some additional situations, including:
APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders: Eligible travelers with a valid ABTC (including virtual ABTC) may enter China without a visa under relevant rules. (签证中心)
Selected regional/group arrangements (examples can include specific cruise or group-tour entry programs in designated areas, subject to current rules). (签证中心)
Practical Tips for Travelers
Match your purpose to the policy. Visa-free entry typically covers short-term activities such as tourism, business visits, and family visits; other activities (e.g., work, long-term study) generally require a visa.
Check passport type and validity. Many policies apply only to ordinary passports, and agreements may differ by document type. (国家移民管理局)
Confirm before flying. Airline check-in staff will verify eligibility; carry supporting documents such as hotel bookings, invitations, and onward tickets if applicable.
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