China's visa policy has changed dramatically. Many countries that previously required a visa can now enter visa-free for up to 15 days. Check if your country qualifies.
Visa-Free Entry Countries (2026)
15-Day Visa-Free
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| Europe | France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden |
| Asia | Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, South Korea (temporary), Japan (temporary) |
| Oceania | Australia (temporary, trial period) |
| Other | New Zealand (temporary, trial period) |
⚠️ Temporary policies can change. Always check with your nearest Chinese embassy before travel.
What You Can Do Visa-Free
- Tourism
- Business visits
- Family visits
- Transit
What You CANNOT Do
- Work
- Study (long-term)
- Journalism
144-Hour Transit Visa-Free
If your country is NOT on the visa-free list, you may still qualify for the 144-hour (6-day) transit visa.
How It Works
- Fly INTO China from Country A
- Stay up to 144 hours in the transit city/region
- Fly OUT to Country B (must be different from Country A)
Eligible Transit Cities
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an, Hangzhou, and more.
Requirements
- Confirmed onward ticket to a third country
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Visa for the onward destination (if required)
When You Still Need a Visa
- Staying longer than 15 days
- Working in China
- Studying in China
- Your country is not on the visa-free list
For the full visa application guide, see our China visa guide.
Tips for Visa-Free Entry
- Check the latest list — policies change frequently
- Bring proof of onward travel — immigration may ask
- Have hotel booking confirmation — may be requested
- Register with your embassy — standard safety practice
- Don't overstay — penalties are severe (fines, detention, ban)
For travel planning including the best entry points, try our AI Trip Planner.