Last Updated: November 13, 2025

1. Who does not need a visa to enter China?

Nationals holding valid ordinary passports of the following 48 countries may enter China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting family or friends, exchange visits, or transit, for a stay of up to 30 days:

Brunei, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Republic of Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Russia and Sweden.

2. How long is the visa-free policy valid?

– Brunei: No expiration date.
– Russia: Valid until September 14, 2026.
– Other 46 countries: Valid until December 31, 2026.

3. Are there special requirements for minors?

No. Minors are subject to the same visa-free entry requirements as adults.

4. Does the visa-free policy apply to sports events, conferences, exhibitions, or study tours?

Yes. Foreign nationals attending sports competitions, conferences, exhibitions, or study tours (including summer or winter camps) may enter China without a visa, provided they stay no longer than 30 days and hold a valid ordinary passport.

5. Does the visa-free policy apply to tour groups?

Yes. Eligible foreign nationals may enter China visa-free either as part of a tour group or as independent travelers.

6. Will Chinese border authorities check the purpose of entry? Are additional documents required?

Yes. Border inspection authorities will verify whether the traveler’s purpose of entry complies with the visa-free policy. Travelers whose purposes do not match the permitted categories, or who fall under other legal grounds for refusal, will be denied entry.

It is strongly recommended to carry supporting documents such as invitation letters, return or onward flight tickets, and hotel reservations. Visa-free entry does not apply to work, study, journalism, or similar purposes.

7. Are there requirements for passport type and validity?

Travelers must hold a valid ordinary passport that remains valid for the entire intended stay in China. Holders of travel documents, temporary passports, or emergency documents are not eligible for visa-free entry.

8. Can travelers enter China from a third country?

Yes. Eligible travelers may depart for China from any country or region.

9. Does the visa-free policy apply to land or sea entry?

Yes. The visa-free policy applies to all sea, land, and air ports open to foreign nationals, unless otherwise restricted by laws or bilateral agreements. Travelers using private vehicles must comply with Chinese regulations regarding vehicle entry and exit.

10. How is the 30-day stay calculated?

The 30-day period begins on the day after entry and consists of 30 consecutive calendar days.

11. Can the stay be extended beyond 30 days?

If a stay longer than 30 days is planned, a corresponding visa must be obtained in advance from a Chinese embassy or consulate.

If an extension becomes necessary after entering China visa-free due to legitimate reasons, travelers must apply for a stay permit at the local exit-entry administration of the public security authorities.

12. Is multiple entry allowed? Are there limits on frequency or total stay?

Yes. Eligible travelers may enter China multiple times without a visa. Currently, there are no restrictions on the number of entries or total cumulative days of stay. However, travelers must not engage in activities inconsistent with their declared purpose of entry.

13. Is advance declaration to Chinese embassies or consulates required?

No. Eligible foreign nationals do not need to make any advance declaration to Chinese embassies or consulates.

14. What if a passport is lost after entering China visa-free?

If a traveler loses or damages their passport after entry, they may exit China using a new passport, emergency passport, or travel document issued by their embassy or consulate in China.

Chinese border authorities will verify identity information, entry records, loss reports, and relevant embassy documentation. If the traveler has not overstayed or committed other violations, exit will be permitted.

If overstaying or other violations have occurred, border authorities or relevant public security organs will handle the case in accordance with Chinese laws before exit is allowed.