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China Visa & Entry Guide 2026

Visa-free access expanded to ~50 countries, plus a 240-hour transit policy. Check your status below.

Check your entry status

Quick lookup covers major countries — full list & latest changes always verify on the official sources below.

30-Day Visa-Free Entry (Unilateral)

30 days

Citizens of these countries can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism, business, or family visits. The list has been expanding through 2025.

Eligible Countries

Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and more — expanded to about 50 countries in 2025

Entry Ports

All international ports

240-Hour Transit Visa-Free

240 hours (10 days)

Since December 17, 2024, transit passengers from 54 countries can stay visa-free for up to 240 hours (10 days) at 65 entry ports. You must have an onward ticket to a third country (not your origin). The transit area now covers 24 provincial regions.

Eligible Countries

54 countries including USA, UK, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Russia, all EU nations, and more

Entry Ports

65 ports across Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an, Chongqing, Kunming, and more

Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free

30 days

Foreigners from 59 countries can visit Hainan Island visa-free for up to 30 days, entering and exiting through Hainan ports.

Eligible Countries

59 countries including US, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU nations, ASEAN countries

Entry Ports

Haikou Meilan Airport, Sanya Phoenix Airport, and other Hainan ports

Cruise Ship Visa-Free

15 days

Foreign tourists arriving on cruise ships can stay visa-free for up to 15 days when traveling in tour groups organized by Chinese travel agencies.

Eligible Countries

All countries

Entry Ports

Shanghai, Tianjin, Dalian, Qingdao, Xiamen, Sanya, and other cruise ports

Important Tips

1.Always carry your passport and onward ticket proof — immigration may ask
2.Print your hotel booking confirmation and return flight details
3.240-hour transit requires a confirmed onward ticket to a THIRD country (not your origin)
4.Register your accommodation within 24 hours of arrival (hotels do this automatically)
5.Check the latest policy before travel — China frequently updates visa regulations
6.If you need more time, apply for a regular tourist visa (L visa) at a Chinese embassy
7.Download Amap (Gaode Ditu) for navigation — Google Maps doesn't work well in China

⚠️ Always Verify Before You Book

Visa policies change frequently. Confirm your status with the official sources below, and with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country before booking travel.