China has significantly expanded its visa-free policies in recent years, making it easier than ever for travelers from many countries to visit. As of 2025, citizens from 47 countries can enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, and 55 countries qualify for 240-hour transit visa-free entry.
This guide is updated regularly with the latest policy changes. If you're planning a trip to China, this is the only page you need.
47 countries enjoy 30-day unilateral visa-free entry (valid through Dec 31, 2025). 55 countries qualify for 240-hour (10-day) transit without a visa. Hainan Island offers 30-day visa-free access for tourists from 59 countries.
Overview: Who Can Visit China Visa-Free?
China's visa-free policy falls into several categories, each with different eligibility and duration:
- 30-Day Visa-Free Entry (Unilateral) — China allows citizens of 47 countries to enter visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, or transit
- 240-Hour Transit Visa-Free — For passengers transiting through 60 ports across 24 provinces, stay up to 10 days
- Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free — For tourists visiting Hainan Island via approved routes
- Mutual Visa-Free Agreements — Special bilateral agreements (e.g., Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia)
30-Day Visa-Free Entry (Unilateral Policy)
As of November 2025, China's unilateral visa-free policy covers 47 countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days. The policy is currently valid through December 31, 2025, and has been extended multiple times since its introduction in late 2023.
Eligible Countries (47 Total)
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| Europe (34) | Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, United Kingdom, Monaco, Andorra, Liechtenstein |
| Asia (7) | Brunei, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain |
| Oceania (2) | Australia, New Zealand |
| South America (5) | Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay |
The 30-day visa-free policy is valid for tourism, family visits, business, and transit purposes. You cannot work or study during this period. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from China. The policy is currently valid through December 31, 2025 — check for further extensions before traveling.
240-Hour Transit Visa-Free (2025 Update)
Effective December 17, 2025, China unified and expanded its transit visa-free policy to 240 hours (10 days), replacing the previous 72-hour and 144-hour policies. Citizens of 55 countries can now stay in designated regions for up to 10 days when transiting through China.
Key Details
- Duration: Up to 240 hours (10 days)
- Covered countries: 55 countries including all EU members, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Russia, and more
- Entry ports: 60 ports across 24 provinces and municipalities
- Regions: Travel is allowed within the entire province/municipality of entry, not just the port city
Major Entry Ports
- Beijing — Capital International Airport, Daxing International Airport, Beijing West Railway Station
- Shanghai — Pudong, Hongqiao, and ports across the Yangtze River Delta (Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang)
- Guangdong — Baiyun Airport and ports across the Greater Bay Area (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai)
- Other major cities — Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an, Wuhan, Xiamen, Qingdao, Kunming, Harbin, and more
Requirements for 240-Hour Transit
- Passport valid for at least 3 months
- Confirmed connecting ticket to a third country (not your departure country) within 240 hours
- You must fill out the transit visa-free application at the airport upon arrival
- You can travel within the entire province/municipality of entry
The old 72-hour and 144-hour transit policies have been merged and extended into a single 240-hour (10-day) policy. This means more time, more ports, and more freedom to travel within the entry province. If you previously qualified for 72 or 144 hours, you now get 240 hours automatically.
Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free
Tourists from 59 countries can visit Hainan Island visa-free for up to 30 days. This policy now supports individual travel (not just tour groups), making Hainan one of the most accessible destinations in China.
Entry Requirements
Regardless of which visa-free category you fall under, you'll need:
- Valid passport — At least 6 months validity beyond your departure date
- Proof of onward travel — Flight or train ticket showing you'll leave China (especially for transit visa-free)
- Hotel bookings — May be requested by immigration officials
- Enough funds — Proof you can support yourself during your stay
- Completed arrival card — Available on the plane or at the airport
Always carry printed copies of your hotel bookings and onward flight ticket. While not always requested, having them ready can speed up your entry process significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my visa-free stay?
No, visa-free stays cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a visa before entering China, or leave and re-enter (subject to approval).
Can I visit multiple cities during my visa-free stay?
For the 30-day unilateral visa-free entry, you can travel anywhere within mainland China. For the 240-hour transit visa-free, you can travel within the entire province/municipality of your entry port.
Do I need to apply for anything in advance?
No advance application is needed for visa-free entry. Simply show up at the border with your valid passport and required documents. However, it's recommended to check the latest policy before traveling as conditions can change.
Can I work or study on a visa-free entry?
No. Visa-free entry is strictly for tourism, family visits, business meetings, and transit purposes. Working or studying is not allowed.
What if my country isn't on the visa-free list?
You'll need to apply for a Chinese visa at your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. See our visa application guides for step-by-step instructions.