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 2026, citizens from over 50 countries can enter China without a visa for stays ranging from 15 to 180 days.
This guide is updated weekly with the latest policy changes. If you're planning a trip to China, this is the only page you need.
54 countries enjoy 15-day visa-free entry. 23 countries qualify for 144-hour 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:
- 15-Day Visa-Free Entry — For tourism, business, or visiting family from 54 eligible countries
- 144-Hour Transit Visa-Free — For passengers transiting through major Chinese cities
- 72-Hour Transit Visa-Free — For transit through certain regional airports
- Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free — For tourists visiting Hainan Island via tour groups
- Regional Visa-Free Zones — Special policies for areas like the Greater Bay Area
15-Day Visa-Free Entry (2024 Expansion)
In December 2024, China expanded its 15-day visa-free policy to include more countries, bringing the total to 54. This is the most significant visa liberalization in China's recent history.
Eligible Countries
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| Europe | Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia |
| Asia Pacific | Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan |
| Americas | United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Costa Rica |
| Oceania | Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea |
| Africa | Mauritius, Seychelles, Tunisia, Morocco, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia |
The 15-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.
144-Hour Transit Visa-Free
The 144-hour visa-free transit policy allows travelers from 53 countries to stay in China for up to 6 days when transiting through certain airports and ports.
Eligible Ports of Entry
- Beijing — Beijing Capital International Airport, Daxing International Airport
- Shanghai — Pudong, Hongqiao, and other ports in the Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang region
- Guangzhou — Baiyun Airport, and ports in the Guangdong Greater Bay Area
- Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an, Wuhan, Xiamen, Qingdao, and more
Requirements for 144-Hour Transit
- Passport valid for at least 3 months
- Confirmed connecting flight ticket to a third country (not your departure country)
- The transit must be within 144 hours (6 days)
- You must enter and exit through the same port city/region
72-Hour Transit Visa-Free
For airports not covered by the 144-hour policy, a 72-hour transit visa-free option is available for citizens of the same 53 countries. This is available at 28 airports across China including Kunming, Harbin, Changsha, and Urumqi.
Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free
Tourists from 59 countries can visit Hainan Island visa-free for up to 30 days when traveling with an approved tour group. This is China's most generous visa-free policy for tourists.
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
- 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?
Yes, for the 15-day visa-free entry, you can travel anywhere within mainland China. For transit visa-free stays, you're generally limited to the city/region you entered through.
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 Guide for step-by-step instructions.