who can visit china visa free

How to Visit China Without a Visa 2024 (Updated)

From December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Singapore, and Malaysia can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa for travel, business, transit, or visiting friends and family.

Starting March 14th, travelers from Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland can also enjoy this visa-free entry.

China's visa-free policies allow nationals of certain countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand to travel to China for stays ranging from 24 hours to 180 days without obtaining a visa if certain requirements are met.

If you want to plan a visa-free trip to China, just contact us.

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• 1. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policies
• 2. 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policies
• 3. 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policies

4. Visa-Free Policy in Hong Kong and Macau

5. 6-day pearl river delta visa exemptions, 6. 6-day visa exemption for asean tour groups to guilin, 7. 15-day visa-free policy for singaporean & bruneian citizens, 8. shanghai 15-day visa-free policy for cruise groups, 9. hainan 30-day visa-free access, 10. apec business travel card holders, 11. holders of aliens' residence permits, 1. 144-hour visa-free transit policies: beijing, shanghai, guangdong....

Valid for : Travelers from 53 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand

Cities that can be visited : Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Qinhuangdao; Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing; Shenyang, Dalian, Qingdao; Chengdu; Xiamen, Kunming; Wuhan; Guangdong; Chongqing; Xi'an; and Ningbo.

One visa-free zone per transit : You can only visit the cities and their surrounding area covered by one policy zone before international transit, such as Shanghai and its surrounding area including Hangzhou and Suzhou or Beijing and its surrounding area including Tianjin. You can't travel from one visa-free zone to another: for example, Beijing to Shanghai visa-free travel is not allowed.

How to apply : You just need to apply for a temporary entry permit at your entry airport.

Key Requirement : You will need to be transiting via China to a third region or country. Find out more requirements on 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit policy .

Will My Route Qualify for China 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

Quick test: will my route qualify for china 72/144-hour visa-free transit.

1. I will depart from (only applies to direct or connected flight):

2. I will arrive in China at [city], [airport / railway station / port].

3. My arrival date is...

4. I will leave for [country/region] from China (the bounding destination on the air ticket):

5. My departure date is...

6. My nationality is...

8. I have Chinese visa refusal stamps in my passport.

You qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour visa-free policy.

You qualify to enjoy China's 144-hour visa-free policy.

You don't qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free policy.

Reason you don't qualify:

• You must be in transit to a third country or region.
• You must leave the city area (prefecture or municipality) after the 72/144 hours (the 72/144-hour limit is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after arrival, i.e. 24:00 on the arrival date).
• Your passport must be valid for more than 3 months at the time of entry into China.
• Your passport nationality is not eligible for the 72/144-hour visa exemption program.
• You have Chinese visa refusal stamps in your passport.

For example, with a New York – Beijing (transit) – Frankfurt itinerary, you can visit Beijing visa-free, staying for up to 6 days.

An "essential" Beijing trip takes about 3–4 days, including its must-sees like the Forbidden City and Great Wall. Check out our 4-Day Beijing Private Tour .

New York – Beijing – New York doesn't meet the visa-free transit policy requirements, because the policy requires that you must transit from China to a third region or country.

However, you can take advantage of the convenience of Hong Kong and Macau, which are considered as separate regions in the policy. The itinerary New York – Beijing – Hong Kong – New York or New York – Hong Kong – Beijing – New York is doable visa-free.

Transiting in e.g. Hong Kong, you could even access two visa-free zones and return home, e.g. USA–Beijing–HK–Shanghai–USA visa-free!

Just contact us to plan a visa-free tour. We have been providing visa-free tour services for many clients since the introduction of such policies. For any questions/problems throughout your trip, our travel consultants provide 24/7 support.

Here are some appealing China tours that you can experience with the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit :

• 5-Day 5-Day Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou Bullet Train Tour
• 4-Day Shanghai, Hangzhou, Water Town Culture Tour
• 4-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Night Tour
• 3-Day Chengdu Giant Panda, Giant Buddha, and Ancient Town Tour

2. 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy: Guilin, Harbin, Changsha

Valid for : passport holders from 51 countries or regions, including the USA, the UK, Singapore, Canada, Australia, and Germany

Cities that can be visited : Guilin, Harbin, and Changsha

How to apply : You just need to apply for a temporary entry permit at the entry airport.

The transit requirement : You need to be going via China to a third region or country. Click to learn more about 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit .

Recommended Visa-Free Tours

• 3-Day Essence of Guilin
• 1-Day Harbin Ice and Snow Fairyland Tour

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

3. The 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

Valid for : Almost all foreign tourists

Cities that can be visited : This policy applies to most major cities in China with an international airport, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, and Tianjin.

How to apply : You just need to apply for a temporary entry permit at the airport.

Key requirement : You need to be going via China to a third region or country.

• 1-Day Beijing Highlights Tour
• 1-Day Shanghai Layover Tour

For most visitors, a visa is not required if traveling to Hong Kong and/or Macau.

Hong Kong : The former colony continues its liberal entry policies established by the British government. Citizens of about 160 countries can obtain visa-free entry for durations that range from 180 days to 7 days. For more detailed information, see Hong Kong's visa policy .

Macau : This territory's policies are more restrictive than those of Hong Kong. British nationals can stay for 6 months. Citizens of about 38 countries including those of the EU, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, and South Korea can stay for 90 days. For more, see Macau's visa policy .

For even greater travel opportunities, you can also plan a visa-free trip to the Chinese Mainland from Hong Kong or Macau by taking advantage of the visa-free policies mentioned earlier or the one below.

Recommended Visa-Free Tours from Hong Kong/Macau

• 5-Day Yangtze River Delta Bullet Train Tour
• 4-Day Beijing Private Tour

Just contact us to plan a trip from Hong Kong/Macau.

Valid for : international visitors traveling from Hong Kong and/or Macau

Cities that can be visited : those of the conurbation surrounding the Pearl River Delta including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Zhaoqing, Huizhou, and Shantou.

How to apply : You will need to go with a registered travel agency, such as ours. The permitted tour group size ranges from three to 40 people including the guide.

• 4-Day Essence of Guangzhou and Shenzhen Tour
• 3-Day Kaiping and Foshan Tour

Valid for : ASEAN member citizens, including those of Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines.

City that can be visited : Guilin

How to apply : You will need to join a group tour with a registered travel agency.

Recommended Tours

• 5-Day Guilin Off-the-Beaten-Path Tour
• 6-Day Guilin, Longsheng, & Yangshuo Relaxation
• 4-Day Guilin Scenic and Ethnic Discovery

Starting from July 26, Singaporean & Bruneian citizens holding ordinary passports can enjoy a 15-day visa-free policy for visiting China for business, tourism, family visit, and transit purposes.

• 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour
• 8-Day Xinjiang Tour with Ili (Best for Summer)
• 8-Day North Xinjiang Tour with Kanas (Best for Autumn and Winter)

Valid for : Foreign tourist groups entering China via a Shanghai cruise

Cities that can be visited : You are not only allowed to visit Shanghai but also many other coastal municipalities (Beijing and Tianjin) and provinces (Liaoning, Hebei, Shandong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hainan).

Requirements : You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a Chinese travel agent at the Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

Valid for : Ordinary passport holders from 59 countries including the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Cities that can be visited : Hainan Island

Requirements : Groups and individual tourists must book their tour through an accredited travel agency that's approved by China's National Travel Administration and registered in Hainan Province.

Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card holders can simply enter China with the card without applying for a visa.

Travelers who hold a valid APEC business travel card can stay in China for up to 60 days.

No visa is required for those who hold aliens' permanent residence certificates issued by the People's Republic of China Public Security Bureau (PSB).

Foreigners visiting China for study, employment, or working as resident correspondents must apply for Aliens' Residence Permits with the PSB within a month of arrival in China.

Popular Visa-Free Tours

If you want to enjoy a hassle-free tour that maximizes limited time in China, just contact us . The following itineraries, and any other ideas you may have, can be customized by us to fit your length of stay and other needs:

• 1-Day Beijing Great Wall Layover Tour : Visit the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall
• 11-Day China Classic Tour
• 9-Day Beyond the Golden Triangle
• 2-Week Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai Educational Family Vacation
• 2-Week Riches of China
• How to Plan Your First Trip to China 2024/2025 — 7 Easy Steps
• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
• How to Plan a 10-Day Itinerary in China (Best 5 Options)
• 2-Week China Itineraries: Where to Go & Routes (2024)
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
• China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
• China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
• China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in September 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in October 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in November 2024: Places to Go & Crowds
• China Weather in December 2024: Places to Go and Crowds

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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144-hour visa-free transit.

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How to Travel to China without a Visa

China now carries out a total of 11 kinds of visa-free policies. Some are adopted in a wide region while some are applicable among only a few countries; some with a few restrictions while some have strict rules… Please read the following details to check whether you can travel to China without a visa or not.   

Here comes the key points:

Visa-free policy for 36 nationals of france, germany, italy, netherlands, spain, malaysia, singapore…, 24-hour direct transit.

Under the 24-hour visa-free transit rule, no visa is required for international flight, ship, or train passengers who transit directly through mainland China and will stay for less than 24 hours. This policy is applicable to almost all nationalities. Most airports are eligible, except the airports in Huangshan Tunxi Airport, Mudanjiang Hailang Airport, Yanji Chaoyangchuan Airport. Passengers should hold tickets to a third country or region and have a confirmed seat. In case they want to leave the port for city sightseeing or transfer to another port during the 24 hours, they can apply for a Temporary Stay Permit upon arrival. Those who transfer in more than one city of China within 24 hours can also enjoy this policy. For instance, if one's trip is Los Angeles – Beijing – Shanghai – Bangkok and the total time in China is less than 24 hours, the passenger can still enjoy the 24-hour direct transit.  

Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free Access

15-day visa-free policy for cruise tour groups to shanghai, 6-day visa-free for tourists to pearl river delta, 6-day visa-free for asean tour groups visiting guilin, holders of aliens' residence permit, holders of apec business travel card, diplomatic, service or official passport holders, recommended tours.

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What to Know About China's New Visa-Free 6-Day Travel Permit

By Stephanie Vermillion

Seeing iconic Chinese sights like the terracotta warriors will soon become easier as China adds Xian, Ningbo, and Chongqing to its growing list of 144-hour visa-free travel ports. China has been building itself up as a stopover hub, and the visa-free transit permit—obtained upon arrival—lets travelers from the U.S., Canada, and 51 other countries visit cities like Beijing , Shanghai , and Chengdu for up to six days, without requiring a long visa process.

Obtaining this permit is much simpler than getting China’s 30-day tourism visa, the L visa, or the seven-day transit visa, the G visa. Both the L visa and G visa require advanced application, either in person at the consulate or by mail through a visa services company.

As China moves ports like Xian and Chongqing from a 72-hour to 144-hour visa-free transit policy—and adds entirely new ports like Ningbo to the six-day visa-free list—the option for traveling without the cumbersome L visa application is alluring. Here’s how to know if you qualify for the 144-hour visa-free transit permit.

Who is eligible for visa-free transit in China?

Travelers with a passport from one of 53 countries, including the U.S. and Canada, are eligible for visa-free transit permits on trips of up to six days (in participating ports). These travelers must arrive on an international flight, have a passport that’s valid for at least three months from the date of entry, and bring a printout proving they have onward transit booked for a destination beyond China. The printout should include a confirmed booking number. Like a true stopover, the onward flight must land in a different country than the traveler’s origin, and that country must be outside of China. ( Hong Kong and Macau count as “onward” countries under this permit.) You also must fly directly out of China; you can’t have a layover in another Chinese port.

How to choose a participating port

You can obtain the visa-free transit permit in 27 ports across China, including popular airports such as Beijing Capital International Airport and cruise ports like Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal. To avoid any issues, use the government’s visa-free transit tool before booking to confirm you can visit your desired destination visa-free for 144 hours.

Your destination dictates your trip

The visa-free transit permit restricts you to either the city, province, or region of your arrival. You won’t have to prove where you’re staying at the port’s customs counter, but officials at hotels, train stations, and other security checkpoints will look at your permit sticker to make sure you’re within the boundaries. Those entering ports in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region can travel freely among these municipalities and provinces. This is the best option for the Great Wall or Forbidden City. Travelers landing in the Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang region can explore the designated region freely as well. The transit tool confirms whether your desired destination is included, and where you can travel on the permit.

Starting December 1, 2019, new arrival ports offering the 144-hour visa-free permit include the Xianyang International Airport (for travel in and around Xian), the Ningbo Lishe Airport (a new port in the Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang region), and Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (for travel in the city of Chongqing). On December 1, the government will also ease up restrictions for visa-free travel in the Sichuan province. Those entering through the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport can stay in 10 other Sichuan cities, including Deyang, Yibin, and Leshan.

What to say when your airline asks for a visa

The crew for your originating flight will look for a visa at the check-in counter or gate; this is where things can get a bit hairy. “If the airline is not familiar with the visa-free option, they may not let you board,” says Josh Summers, founder of Travel China Cheaper . Summers, originally from Texas, has navigated just about every Chinese visa application while living, studying, and working in China since 2006. For confused airlines—an issue Summers’ readers face frequently—his answer is simple: Bring printouts detailing China’s visa-free transit permit regulations and show your confirmation of onward travel to prove you’re eligible.

Where to obtain the permit when you arrive

Upon landing in China, each participating entry port has a visa-free customs counter within the main customs area. Here, travelers present their valid passport, an arrival/departure card (available in customs or via flight attendants pre-landing), and a printed copy of the onward ticket with a confirmed booking number. Extra items like passport photos are not required, says Summers. You’ll receive a permit sticker once approved. While you have to exit China within 144 hours, Summer says there are currently no restrictions regulating how often you can make use of the visa-free transit option in the future.

How to stay in China for longer than six days

It’s hard to pack much into 144 short hours. That’s why the L visa , China’s main tourist visa, is the go-to for most travelers. The L visa gives travelers 30 days to explore most of China; some exclusions include Hong Kong and Macau, which require additional visa applications and procedures. For the L visa, travelers can either apply in person at their state’s designated consulate or hire a visa services company to vet and mail in the application. The L visa costs $140 for U.S. citizens, while the budget-friendly visa-free permit is free. The seven-day G visa is another option, but since it costs the same as the L visa and requires a similar amount of paperwork, most opt for the L visa or visa-free permit.

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In order to further promote personnel exchanges between China and foreign countries, serve high-quality development and open up to the outside world at a high level, China has decided to expand the scope of unilateral visa-free countries on a trial basis to holders of ordinary passports from six countries: France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia. Visa-free policy. From December 1, 2023 to November 30, 2024, ordinary passport holders from the above countries who come to China for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit for no more than 15 days can enter China without a visa. People from the above-mentioned countries who do not meet the conditions for visa exemption still need to apply for a visa to China before entering China.

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The FAQ: All You Need To Know About Visa-Free Travel to China

A few weeks ago China started offering visa free entry to a number of countries. Here's what you need to know about that.

What's the current list of visa-free countries?

As of March 2024 there are 14 countries with visa-free options. Check the list below.

15 Days Visa Free

• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Ordinary passport holders from the aforementioned countries who come to China for business, tourism, visiting relatives, or transit for no more than 15 days are eligible for visa-free entry.

30 Days Visa Free:

Holders of ordinary passports from both sides are eligible for visa-free entry into each other's countries for purposes such as tourism, visiting relatives, and conducting private business, with a stay not exceeding 30 days .

Here is a comprehensive list of countries with mutual visa exemptions with China. Refer to it for more information.

What purpose is this good for?

Travel, family visits and business. 'Business' doesn't mean you can work here, but rather trade show visits, business meetings and so on.

If you are coming to China for work, study, interviews, or reporting purposes, you are not eligible for visa-free entry. Also note that you have to enter the country on a Z-Visa to get a work visa.

Can I actually show up at the airport without applying for anything in advance?

Yes, you can just fly to Shanghai and show up with your passport in hand. There's no need to apply for anything beforehand.

The only requirement (besides being from one of those lucky countries) is that you must hold an ordinary passport to enter China (not a temporary passport), with a validity period meeting the requirements for travel in China (means the passport can't expire while you are in China).

A few of our colleagues report that no questions were asked at Pudong Airport (they didn't have to present return tickets or a hotel reservation). But things might change any moment, so it's probably advisable that you bring proof of a hotel reservation or accommodation, return tickets and other relevant travel documents.

Visa free entry is also available for other points of entry (e.g. when you take the ferry from Japan or enter China by train).

Are there any special requirements for minors applying for the visa-free policy in China?

Minors and adults have the same conditions for applying for the visa-free policy in China.

Can I enter China visa-free if I depart from a non-national country?

If you meet the requirements for visa-free entry into China, you can travel to China from any country/region. You don't have to enter from your home country.

Can tour groups qualify for visa-free entry?

Yes. If you meet the requirements for visa-free entry to China, whether you're traveling with a tour group or independently, you can apply for the visa-free policy to enter the country.

Can I extend my 15-days visa-free stay while I'm in Shanghai?

We contacted the Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau hotline regarding that question. The answer we got was that in theory it is possible, but you need to be able to provide a good reason why you have to stay in China. They suggested visiting their location and talking to them.

We went ahead and tried once and got the extension rejected, claiming we didn't provide a good enough reason (we didn't).

Keep in mind that it takes up to 7 days to process the extension, so you'd need to apply in advanced if you want to try.

Am I allowed to work here (e.g. DJs, musicians, consultants) if I get paid outside China?

If you enter China under the visa-free policy, you are not allowed to work in the country. For instance, if a French singer would like to tour in China, they will need to apply for a Z work visa. They will also require some other permits based on your purpose of work, such as the original documents of the commercial cultural performance approval issued by the cultural administrative authority, etc.

Does the 15-days count from the day I enter, or from the next day?

It counts from the date of entry until 24:00 on the 15th day of your stay.

How many times per year can I enter China on those visa-free stays?

Currently, there is no limit on the number of times or total duration of stay under the visa exemption policy. However, you must not engage in activities that are inconsistent with the purpose of your entry (like work for example).

Can I just go to Hong Kong or another city nearby and enter again?

Technically, yes. You can go to Hong Kong, Macau, do the infamous visa run , or another nearby city outside mainland China, but make sure your return date is not the same as your departure date from the mainland.

It's worth noting that some people online suggest that if your total stay in mainland China exceeds 15 days, it's advisable to purchase round-trip tickets to and from abroad. For example, if you're coming from Paris to Shanghai and plan to travel here for a month, with a trip to Hong Kong midway to renew your 15-day visa-free stay, it's best to buy a round-trip ticket from Paris to Hong Kong rather than a round-trip ticket from Paris to Shanghai. Alternatively, showing your ticket for leaving mainland China midway may also suffice. Otherwise, there's a chance you may not be issued a boarding pass.

What areas can be visited? Are there any limitations?

Whether you enter China visa-free or with a visa, you can generally travel anywhere in mainland China. However, some hotels may not accept foreign tourists, so check before making reservations. If you plan to visit Xinjiang, you'll need to visit the local police station to get a 边防证 (People's Republic of China Exit and Entry Permit). For travel to Tibet, in addition to the Exit and Entry Permit, you'll also need a 入藏函 (Tibet Travel Permit). Contact a qualified Tibet travel agency to get this permit, and travel to Tibet is only permitted in tourist groups for foreigners.

What's the deal with Transit Visa?

Since 2023, citizens from 54 countries are eligible for a 144 hour on-arrival visa for those transiting through a Chinese airport or port. There are certain limitations to how far you can go, for example, in the case of Shanghai, you can only visit the neighboring provinces of Zhejiang and Jiangsu. You must have a connecting flight ticket or relevant documentation, indicating your departure within 144 hours to a third country or region. You must fill out the Arrival Card for Temporary Entry of Foreigners and then head to the Transit Visa Counter.

Here's the list:

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway, United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Vatican, United Arab Emirates, Qatar.

Note that Changsha, Harbin, and Guilin only offer a 72h transit Visa.

What about visa-free entry to Hainan?

Hainan has started its own Visa-free entry system since February 2024.

Ordinary passport holders from 59 countries are eligible to enter China through any open port in Hainan. But you'll have to stay within the administrative area of Hainan Province, and the duration of your stay can't exceed 30 days. Here's a list of the included visa-free program for Hainan:

Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, North Macedonia, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Norway, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine.

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4 Days Beijing Classic Tour with Best Highlights

China Visa Free Tours

Notice on Latest Visa and Entry Policies for Foreigners Entering China - Updated on March 7, 2024 :

1. 15 Days Visa Exemption Policy is newly available for Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg. Read more »

2. Booking of flights and hotels, China itineraries and invitation letters are not required for application of Chinese Tourist Visa for U.S.nationals.

3. 15 Days Visa Exemption Policy is now available for other 6 countries including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. Read more »

4. Appointment is not required for visa application in many embassies and consulates.

5. Starting from 00:00 on November 1, 2023, individuals entering or exiting the country are exempt from filling out the "People's Republic of China Health Declaration Card for Entry/Exit."

6. Norway has become the 54th country whose passport holders can transit without visa up to 72/144 hours in China.

7. Starting from August 30, 2023, individuals traveling to China will no longer be required to undergo pre-entry COVID-19 nucleic acid or antigen testing.

8. U.S. citizens holding multi-year multiple-entry visas issued before March 28, 2020, whose visas temporarily lost entry functionality between March 28, 2020, and March 14, 2023, due to the pandemic, are eligible to apply for compensation. Those who choose to apply for compensation will receive a free 3-year multiple-entry visa. Those who choose to waive the compensation can apply for a new 10-year multiple-entry visa at the regular fee.

China Discovery will keep focusing on the updates of the latest Chinese visa and entry policy! You can also call +86 010 12367 (Official telephone number of China National Immigration Administration) to check further information. Welcome to join in our Facebook Groups to catch up with the latest news!

Invitation letter is a vital document for Chinese visa application. If you travel with us, we will not only create a valuable tour for you, but also provide you an invitation letter if you request, which will help you obtain your visa successfully. Start customizing your tour in China now!

We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks and reviews during pandemic years

Travel to China Without Visa

Are you looking for a cost-effective way of getting visa for China tour? If yes, then you’re in the right place. With increasing growth of international communication, China has adopted different Visa Free Policies in major tourist cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, to welcome travelers around the world. Once meeting required official conditions, like nationality, transportation of arrival, duration of stay and scheduled itinerary, foreigners can apply for a free temporary entry simply and conveniently, and make a “no-visa” trip to certain city in China.

From Northern to Southern China, coastal region to inland cities, or nature to culture and history, there are always stunning holidays feasible. Granted 144-hour transit visa exemption - the most favorable privilege for short-term tourists, it’s lucky to obtain a 6-day layover tour to fulfill a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Great Walls of China, glistening modern metropolis, lovely Pandas, and many symbols of China. Visitors holding certain certificates may even extend travel further to “Silk Road”, Yangtze River and more interesting and featured places. No prior research and preparations is needed, no need to pay a huge amount of money, just bring your passport and supporting materials, go through a few steps, you get the cheapest entry permit and visit one of the top destinations in China.

Have been touched? Can’t wait to get start? Get inspired from our most popular China visa-free tours below or contact us to tailor make one.

Beijing Essential Tour

Beijing Plus Great Wall Hiking

Explore top highlights of Beijing with hiking Mutianyu Great Wall.

Trip at a Glance: Beijing (3D & 2N)

Sites: Mutianyu Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, Beijing Hutong...

Transfer: Private Car + Driver

Shanghai Highlights Tour

Downtown Sightseeing and Ancient Town Walking

Travel central city area and old waterside town leisurely.

Trip at a Glance: Shanghai (3D & 2N)

Sites: Shanghai Museum, The Bund, Yu Garden, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town...

Xian Classic Tour

UNESCO Cultural Heritage

Witness great world wonder, visit ancient sites and taste northern flavor snacks.

Trip at a Glance: Xian (3D & 2N)

Sites: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quater, Shaanxi History Museum...

Chengdu Tour with Panda

Lifetime Panda Volunteer Experience

Short stay in Chengdu and memorable close with Giant Panda.

Trip at a Glance: Chengdu (2D & 1N)

Sites: Dujiangyan Panda Base, Wenshu Temple, Renmin Park, Sichuan Cuisine...

Guangzhou Short Stay

Culture Seeking and Nature Enjoying

Learn symbolic Lingnan culture and history, taste delicate Cantonese Cuisine.

Trip at a Glance: Guangzhou (3D & 2D)

Sites: Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Canton Tower...

Shenzhen Brief Journey

Superfast China Speed

Closely sense the vigour, potential, inclusiveness in China's Silicon Valley.

Trip at a Glance: Shenzhen (2D & 1N)

Sites: Shenzhen Museum, Splendid China Folk Viallage...

Guilin Brief Vacation

Best Quintessence of Charming Guilin

Record picturesque scenery along Li River and tranquil idyllic rural of Yangshuo.

Trip at a Glance: Guilin (3D & 2N)

Sites: Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill...

Transfer: Li River Cruise + Private Car

Tianjin Great Wall Tour

Great Wall Hiking & Tianjin City Exploration

Fulfill Great Wall dream tour and exotic city architectures within short stay.

Trip at a Glance: Tianjin (2D & 1N)

Sites: Huangyaguan Great Wall, Tianjin Eye...

Great Wall Tour from Tianjin

Beijing Great Wall Tour

Extend excursion with a unforgetable Great Wall Hiking nearby.

Trip at a Glance: Beijing & Tianjin (4D & 3N)

Sites: Jinshanling+Simatai Great Wall, Forbidden City...

Transfer: Bullet Train + Private Car

Beijing to Tianjin Layover Tour

Beijing Layover Tour

Before cruise journey, use every minute for the top highlights in Beijing.

Sites: Mutianyu Great Wall, Forbidden City, Hutong...

Transfer: Private Car + Bullet Train

Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Tour

Yangtze Delta Integration Package

Traverse to "Heaven on Earth" from "Magic City" to perceive unique and elegant Jiangnan.

Trip at a Glance: 5D & 4N

Sites: The Bund, Lingering Garden, West Lake...

Splendid East China Tour

Journey to Golden Triangle in East China

Feel the bustling Shanghai, poetic Suzhou and scenic Hangzhou.

Trip at a Glance: 6D & 5N

Sites: Shanghai Museum, The Bund, Tongli Water Town, West Lake...

Shanghai Nanjing Divergence

Shanghai Nanjing Comparison Tour

Take short break to detect traditional China from prosperious big city.

Sites: The Bund, Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Qinhuai River...

Brilliant Lingnan Culture & Food

Guangzhou Foshan Shunde Tour

Discover current prosperity, Lingnan Culture and "City of Gastronomy" once at all.

Sites: Canton Tower, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Lingnan Tiandi...

Guangdong Highlights Tour

Best of Guangdong Tour

Pick "Modern Guangzhou", cultural origins of Foshan and UNSCO Heritage in Jiangmen.

Sites: Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Lingnan Tiandi, Kaiping Diaolous...

Trip to Greater Bay Area

Hong Kong Guangzhou Macau Tour

Admire great economic vigor, stunning citylandscape and various culture & history in Pearl River Delta.

Sites: Victoria Peak, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Ruins of St Paul's...

Visa Free Travel to Major Destinations in China

There are different visa-exempted policies implemented in different cities or regions in China. Entry via one of them, you may visit the corresponding place without visa. Citizens from certain 17 countries (Singapore. Japan...) or hold specific certificates (APEC Business Travel Card, China Residence Permit...) can travel to most Chinese cities relatively freely, as long as within the permitted duration of stay. Nowadays, the most famous destinations like Beijing, Shanghai,Xian, Guangzhou, Chengdu and many more provide 144-Hour Visa-Free Layover for transiting travelers. Thus, it’s surprisingly easy, simple and convenient to make a quick trip to China’s icons. Besides, 72-Hour Transit Visa Exemption is also available in Guilin, Harbin and Changsha., where you can have a meaningful stopover to picturesque Li River, or cool Ice and Snow World. Better yet, Hong Kong, Macau, Hainan has visa-free entry for many foreign tourists. Check your travel plan and proposed destinations to find out an accessible visa-free travel to China!

Beijing Visa-Free Tours

As a world famous door to China, Beijing is the current great capital of China with over 3,000 years’ history, a significant city presenting the glorious past, lifeful today and unlimited future of China. A classic trip to Beijing must cover the Great Walls, Forbidden City, Hutongs and else top landmarks, and 2 to 3 days are suitable. If time permits, make an in-depth tour in Beijing, enjoy Chinese Kung Fu show, Peking Opera, taste Beijing food, or extend tour to Tianjin to view exotic cityscape and features. Big fans of China Great Walls can either have have Great Wall Hiking experience on famous Mutianyu, Badaling or sections farther, even a unique night tour on Simatai Great Wall.

Shanghai Visa-Free Tours

Shanghai is a “Magic City”, a notable megalopolis and the biggest city in China, which broadly known as “the Oriental of the East”. It provides convenient access though 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy and 15-Day cruise Visa-Free Entry. Travelers usually spend 3 days to catch the essence of Shanghai.Stroll along the Bund leisurely, view exotic building complex, visit skyscrapers like World Financial Center to overlook twinkling Shanghai, to Yu Garden, Zhujiaojiao Water Town to see traditional architectures, culture and history, to Disney Resort to have family happy holiday. With more time, extend trip to nearby Hangzhou, Suzhou from Shanghai to capture the charming Jiangnan.

Xian Visa-Free Tours

Xian, once served as capital for 13 dynasties, is the starting point of “ Silk Road” and the location of the Terracotta Army. Long history leaves Xian profound cultural and historical ruins. Watching spectacular Terracotta Warriors comes first in all Xian tours, especially for day trippers. For short layover between 1 to 6 days, you can also ride around the Ancient City Wall, view the Bell Tower and taste local snacks in Muslim Quarter. Interested in Chinese culture and history? Go to the Shaanxi History Musuem, Giant Wild Pagoda and other monuments, tombs and old palaces to retrospect brilliant ancient civilization.

Guilin Visa-Free Tours

An old Chinese saying goes “The Landscape in Guilin is the Best under Heaven”. The peaceful and idyllic countryside scenery of Guilin wins many foreigners’ heart as well. It has long been internationally chosen as a perfect destination in China. Whether you transit through Guilin or enter via other visa-exempted rule, the best idea is touring Guilin, Yangshuo and Longsheng all to fully feel the unparalleled beauty and tranquility. When in Guilin, 1 day is enough for downtown sightseeing, take another day to view towering limestone Karst peaks along Li River, cycle in Yangshuo for 1 day and view gorgeous rice terrace in Longshenf for extra 1 or 2 days. Permitted to stay longer? Getting an in-depth tour is an excellent option.

Guangzhou Visa-Free Tours

Guangzhou is an international trade center hosting Canton Fair every year, the biggest transportation hub in Southern China, a busy port linked with Hong Kong and Macau and the best teller of Cantonese culture. 144-Hour Visa Free allows 6-day tour in Guangzhou and whole Guangdong for comprehensive exploration of culture, history, folk customs and food. Make 2 to 3 days in Guangzhou to catch the major landmarks like Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Canton Tower, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. Leave more days to Foshan to search Martial arts, to Jiangmen observing the UNESCO heritage - Kaiping Diaolous & villages, to Shunde tasting original Cantonese Cuisine, or to Shenzhen, Zhuhai and else cities witness strong vitality and miniature of “China Speed”.

Chengdu Visa-Free Tours

Chengdu is “Home of the Giant Panda” and a vital transfer center to Jiuzhaigou and other destinations in Sichuan. undoubtedly, seeing the lively cute pandas is the No.1 must-do in Chengdu. Besides, in this one of China’s most livable cities, you can still experience leisure life style, try delicious Sichuan food, spend relaxing tea time in park like locals, enjoy Sichuan opera and folk arts. Travelers using 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit may continue Panda tour in Dujiangyan and hike the Mt.Qingcheng - one of the greatest Taoist mountain in China.

Other Visa-Free Tours

In China, besides the top mentioned destinations, there are more cities providing visa-free entry to foreign tourists, for transit or direct visit. Transiting through China via Xiamen, Kunming, Wuhan, Qingdao, Harbin, Chongqing or other qualified places, you could enjoy a visa-free stopover, harvest a featured city vacation. Planning to spend a sunshine holiday in Hainan Island? Probably you can take advantage of the 30-day free visa. Will travel to Hong Kong or Macau? Both owns favorable entry policy you can use to explore stunning cultural and natural splendors.

Make A Trip to China by Different Visa-Free Policies

Want to figure out which city and how long you can visit China without applying a China Visa? Find the answers here.

Coming from different country, arrival in different city, entering by different transportation and form of travel, factors like those determine exact where you can get “no-visa” entry permit and have a journey. Below are frequently used visa waiver programs we specially listed for your China travel. Among them, the newest 144-Hour Transit Visa Free is the most popular and convenient way used to make short trips to Beijing, Shanghai and one of the applicable cities and regions in China. To better help you plan a easy-going China visa-free layover tour, we introduce the essential requirements, application procedure, travel ideas and lots of practical information.

Most Useful Guide for Visa-Free Cities & Regions and China Visa Application

Compared to other policies, transiting through China without visa (TWOV) is much more time and money-saving, that makes many travelers firstly thinking about to use it. What are the most worthy things to do in each city? Well, that goes different for every visitor who has his own interest and schedule. Here we give you handy assistance on top things to do, transportation, accommodation and travel planning advice for main destinations. Meanwhile, if you are not eligible for free visa of China, read the following instruction of China Visa Application related articles to prepare your China travel!

Travel Guide of Major Hot Destinations

Want to know more details about each destination? The travel guides below will help you plan a perfect trip and travel easily. Get inspired!

Further China Visa Application Guide

Travel China Visa Free with China Discovery

China Discovery is a professional and experienced travel companion dedicated to offering high-value and worry-free China tours for all guests to China. We not only design ideal itinerary covering sightseeing, dining, transfer and hotel, but also provide visa related support and help for your China travel, whether you seek advice for a visa-free tour or regular travel by applying a full China Visa. China is a vast and beautiful country with fascinating glamour. With our considerate service, we believe you will make a meaningful, interesting and unforgettable journey, viewing and feeling different kinds of landscape, cultural and historic wonders and enriching your life.

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Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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How do I get a visa for China?

Oct 14, 2021 • 6 min read

The first step towards walking along the Great Wall is getting a visa for China © Hung Chung Chih / Shutterstock

Stretching from the steppes of Central Asia and Mongolia to the tropical jungles of Laos and Vietnam, China is a land of endless travel opportunities. Though the country shut up tight after the world’s first COVID-19 lockdown in Wuhan in January 2020, China is making fast progress towards its 85% vaccination target and international tourism is expected to resume by 2022.

Here is everything you need to know about obtaining a tourist visa for China, based on the requirements in place before the pandemic, which are likely to remain when China reopens to international tourists. Always check the latest regulations with the Chinese authorities before you travel.

Who Needs a Chinese Tourist Visa?

The majority of foreign nationals require a tourist visa (also known as an "L visa") to enter and visit mainland China, though a few nationalities are granted visa-free entry. L visas are easy to obtain from Chinese embassies and consulates around the world, though the visa application process in some countries has been outsourced to a local branch of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center – their website has a handy list of locations and other useful country-specific information. To avoid the tedious bureaucracy when applying in person, many people obtain a visa via a tour operator or visa agent.

Can I travel visa-free to China?

Holders of passports from a handful of countries can travel visa-free to mainland China for tourism or business purposes. Citizens of Brunei, Japan and Singapore get 15 days, citizens of the Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Ecuador, Fiji, Grenada, Qatar, Serbia, Seychelles, Tonga, and the United Arab Emirates get 30 days, citizens of Mauritius get 60 days, and citizens of Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and San Marino get 90 days.

Who can get a transit visa?

Visitors from 49 countries – including the US, Canada, UK, the EU, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, Brazil and Argentina – can spend up to 144 hours (6 days) transiting in China without a visa if they arrive by air, ship or train at selected Chinese cities. The list of cities includes Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guilin, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xiamen, Wuhan, Kunming and Qingdao, opening up some interesting quick trip opportunities.   To be eligible, travelers must hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after entry and proof of onward travel to a third country, or to Hong Kong or Macau . These visas start counting down at 12.01 am on the date following arrival and there are restrictions on where you can travel within each region. Check with your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate for the current list of eligible nationalities, entry points and specific movement areas.

What about Hong Kong and Macau?

Most nationalities do not require a tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days in either Hong Kong or Macau. British visitors to Hong Kong get 180 days, and South Africans get 30 days. To travel from here into China proper, a standard tourist visa is required. These are fairly easy to obtain via China Travel Service in Hong Kong.

Since May 2018, the Chinese resort island of Hainan has offered 30-day visa-free entry to citizens of 59 countries including the US, Canada, the EU, the UK, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore. You can’t leave Hainan island and travel to mainland China on this visa – if you want to roam deeper into China, you'll need a standard tourist visa.

How about Tibet?

To travel to Tibet by air, road or train, you'll need both a China tourist visa and a Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit. To obtain this mandatory travel document you must book a guide for your entire trip and pre-arrange private transport for trips outside Lhasa. No direct applications are accepted, which effectively means that Tibet can only be visited on an organized tour.

How to apply for a Chinese tourist visa

By far the most straightforward option is to apply in your home country. If your country of residence is different, the Chinese authorities may charge an extra processing fee for non-citizens. Either way, you’ll need to fill out a form giving a proposed itinerary for your trip (it’s advisable to never mention Xinjiang and Tibet in your application), plus a flight ticket, and proof of accommodation booked for your first night in China.

Some embassies require extra documentation, such as an invitation letter from a person or a company in China, bank statements, and documents proving your employment record. And your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the expiry date of your visa. 

Remember that it can be hard to obtain a Chinese tourist visa from an embassy or consulate outside your home country. Caravanistan publishes a useful list of which Chinese embassies accept applications from third-country citizens.

How much does a China tourist visa cost?

The cost of a Chinese tourist visa varies depending on the type of visa, the length of stay, the number of entries allowed, and your nationality. Most tourists pay around US$35 for a single entry visa valid for 30 days from the day you enter China. Reflecting frosty relations between China and some foreign governments, UK citizens pay £151, US citizens pay US$140, Canadian citizens pay C$142, Australian citizens pay A$109 and French, German, Italian, Dutch and Spanish citizens pay €126.

Some nationalities are entitled to long-term multiple-entry visas that allow travelers to visit China for stints of 30 to 120 days throughout the duration of the visa. Note these are not residence permits and do not grant any right to live or work in China. Citizens of the US, Canada, Argentina and Israel can obtain tourist visas with a validity of up to ten years, Brazilians and South Africans are eligible for tourist visas valid for up to five years, while citizens of the UK can get tourist visas lasting two years. Contact your local Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest fees for long-term visas.

How long is a Chinese visa valid for?

Regular China tourist visas are valid for 30 days and must be used within three (or six, if double-entry) months of their date of issue. Never overstay your visa: the fine is ¥500 a day, with the possibility of being deported and banned from re-entering China for the next five years. If you think you'll need to stay longer, start the process of applying for a visa extension well before your visa expires.

Can I extend my Chinese visa?

Chinese visas can be extended once without too much difficulty at the Public Security Bureau (PSB) offices found in larger Chinese towns and cities, though an extension is not guaranteed. The process takes between 2 and 7 working days, the fee is ¥160 (or ¥760/500 for US/UK citizens). You can only extend your stay for as long as the duration of your original visa. You’ll need to provide your original passport, two photos and a receipt from your accommodation in the town where you are applying for your extension.

Because of the complicated permit system, extending your stay in Tibet is impossible, and Xinjiang, Beijing and Shanghai can also be tricky places to extend a standard tourist visa. The Caravanistan website has some useful visa extension reports from travelers. A second extension is harder to get, and a third extension is extremely unlikely.

You may also like: The best time to visit China China’s most epic high-speed train journeys Where to see pandas in China

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China Adds New Countries To Visa-Free Entry List To Boost Tourism Appeal

China has granted visa-free entry for up to 15 days to citizens from multiple countries on a trial basis. the trial phase will span one year..

By: Yashita Vashishth and Priyaja Bakshi Published: Mar 11, 2024 11:00 AM UTC

While quarantine and pandemic safety measures are behind us, international tourism in China is yet to fully rebound. To enhance its appeal, China introduced a visa-free initiative in November, extending strategic visa waivers to stimulate business and tourism. Newly added countries, including Austria, Belgium, Hungary, and Luxembourg, now join a list that includes France, Italy, Germany, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, Malaysia, and Switzerland , offering visa-free access to China.

Navigating China’s visa-free voyage: What you need to know

Before the pandemic, citizens of Japan, Brunei, and Singapore enjoyed visa-free entry to China, a privilege suspended during the COVID-19 outbreak. However, in July 2023, visa-free access was reinstated for Brunei and Singapore. Despite this, China’s foreign entries and exits in 2023 stood at 35.5 million, a stark contrast to the 97.7 million visitors in 2019.

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These Are Some Of The Most Beautiful Places In China

Visa-Free Travel Is A Boon For Tourists And Destinations Alike

To boost tourism, China expanded its visa-free policy to 54 countries in November 2023, including Norway . Moreover, foreign travellers transiting China en route to a third country can now enjoy a six-day visa-free stay in select Chinese cities.

This year, China and Thailand signed a mutual visa entry agreement in January, effective from March 1. Under this agreement, citizens of both countries can visit each other visa-free, with a minimum stay of up to 30 days per entry and 90 days per half year.

The Ultimate Guide To Visiting The Iconic Summer Palace In China

Ritz-Carlton Rissai Valley Is Its First Reserve Resort In China

Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, highlighted the successful implementation of visa-free schemes, contributing to increased tourism in the country. During the Spring Festival holiday, inbound tourists reached 3.23 million, with growing participation from newly added visa-free countries like Germany, France, Singapore, and Malaysia, according to a recent Skift report .

(Feature image credit: Ling Tang/Unsplash)

Related:  A Step-By-Step Guide for Applying for a Visa to China

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BRUSSELS, Dec. 4 -- Under a visa-free entry policy effective from Friday, ordinary passport holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia are now able to enjoy visa-free travel to China for up to 15 days.

The policy, with a trial period from Dec. 1, 2023 to Nov. 30, 2024, was widely viewed as a boost to inbound tourism for China and a bridge for people-to-people exchanges, particularly with more Europeans planning their trip to this exotic country. It also marks a tangible move by China in pushing for high-level opening-up.

EASIER ACCESS

"This is indeed a very good policy. I hope that this policy can encourage tourists to travel to China again" after the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic, a French arts consultant who only gave his name as Jean-Pierre, told Xinhua.

The 72-year-old professional heard the news from his Chinese friends first. Prior to the pandemic, he made frequent trips to China, visiting such cities as Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Harbin, and Jinhua. Impressed by the hospitality of the people and nice travel experience there, he hopes to "revisit these cities as soon as conditions permit."

A French musician by the name of Fabien told Xinhua that the policy came out just in time as he was planning to go to Beijing to further his learning of Peking Opera, and also to southwest China's Yunnan Province for tourism.

"It's much easier to organize a trip on the spur of the moment or if the opportunity arises over a week or two," he said. "I can't wait to go back and learn what I needed to learn there and improve my Chinese too."

For 69-year-old French pensioner by the name of Irene, the new policy prods her to make another journey to China soon. Recalling her last visit to China, Irene voiced hope of visiting more provincial capitals and taking the express train between different cities. "China is a really attractive country for us here in France."

Italian resident Sebastiano Brusco told Xinhua that he has a China visit on his agenda, and this "good" and "necessary" policy helps people "visit China very easily."

Commenting on the new policy, Veronica Carrara in Rome told Xinhua that it is long-awaited good news.

"China is a beautiful country with a long history. You still have what came from the ancient times, and you don't forget the origins," she said. "That's why people should be able to visit China to learn from the Chinese how tradition is carried on."

"China has various aspects that attract me, both its urban and rural landscapes as well as its political life. Traveling to China offers the opportunity for firsthand experience and observation. And now, with the visa exemption, it's even more accessible," a fourth-year school student surnamed Jan told Xinhua in Berlin.

OPPORTUNITY TO KNOW REAL CHINA

Since the beginning of this year, Chinese inbound and outbound travel have both increased. According to Trip.com, in the first ten months of 2023, long-haul inbound travel, particularly from Europe, surpassed pre-pandemic levels. One day after the new visa-free measure was announced, visits to Trip.com's "China Travel Guide" Web page have surged by over 30 percent.

An increasing number of people are interested in knowing China and there is no better way than seeing the country with their own eyes.

"China has always been a focus for us and a country that's always in our internationalization plans because it's not only a country with great potential, as in some technologies it's ahead of us, but a country where our companies must seek presence," said Josep Maria Gomes, an international business developer with the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce in Spain.

"Tourism is also necessary to reveal a reality," he said. "Travel and visiting China can help dispel those cliches that very often are not true."

In the view of Luigi Gambardella, president of ChinaEU, a business-led international digital association in Brussels, the visa exemption for travelers from the major European economies will also facilitate managers of small and medium-sized enterprises to travel to China for business, exhibitions, and so on, which will also enhance confidence in investing in China.

"People need to gain first-hand experience to have a real understanding of a different country and a different culture. Many people's visits to China have changed their stereotypes of China," said Gambardella.

The visa-free policy represents a significant step towards global collaboration and understanding. "Such an extension would not only benefit a larger cohort of travelers but also mark a significant stride towards a more inclusive and cooperative international community," the business leader added.

Many believe that the visa-exempt policy offers more flexibility and freedom, allowing travelers to explore and experience at ease without pre-planning visas, and enabling businessmen and employees to make last-minute trips for meetings, conferences and negotiations without going through the hassle at consulates.

According to China's National Immigration Administration, 2,029 people from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia entered China without a visa on Friday, Day One of the visa-free policy. The number of arrivals from these six countries increased by over 12 percent from the previous day.

"China is such a beautiful country with great diversity. However, Westerners only know those typical cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Xi'an," Gambardella noted, adding that so many beautiful Chinese cities are worth visiting and are waiting to be explored by an inrush of international guests.

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China Resumes 144-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy for Foreigners – Who Can Apply?

China has resumed the 144-hour visa-free transit policy, which allows people from certain countries to enjoy six days of travel to select areas of the country without applying for a visa beforehand. With the policy finally reinstated after three years of COVID-19 restrictions, we explain who is eligible for the visa-free transit and where in China you can travel on this special entry permit.

On March 13 and 14, 2023, Chinese embassies and consulates in multiple countries issued statements that from March 15 onward, China would resume all types of visas for foreigners , including the visa for tourism and medical treatment, port visa, and multiple visa-exemption policies.  

Meanwhile, valid multi-year multi-entry visas that were issued before March 28, 2020, by overseas Chinese visa authorities shall resume function, meaning that foreigners that already have this type of long-term visa (such as the 10-year business or tourist visa) can now enter China without additional visa application – provided it is still within the validity period.

It is important to note that, in order to be eligible for visa-free transit, you must be going on to a third country after leaving China. Entering China under the visa-free transit policy when not continuing travel to a third country will be considered illegal entry to the country .  

Upon the removal of one of the last travel restrictions imposed under the previous “ zero-COVID ” policy , foreign travelers responded quickly, and we have received a lot of inquiries about China’s latest visa policy, especially the 144-hour visa-free transit policy that has long been welcomed by inbound travelers.  

Actually, the 144-hour visa-free transit policy has gradually been resumed since January, when China downgrade COVID-19 from Class A management to Class B management. For example, Shanghai Port welcomed its first 144-hour visa-free transit passenger on January 10, 2023.  

In this article, we explain how this 144-hour visa-free transit policy works and summarize some frequently asked questions.   

What is the 144-hour visa-free transit policy?  

The 144-hour visa-free transit is one of China’s visa exemption policies provided to eligible foreigners coming from selected countries.   

Under the 144-hour visa-free transit policy, foreign travelers can enjoy a six-day stay in certain Chinese cities without a visa, provided they come from 54 eligible countries, enter and exit China from eligible ports, stay within the allowed cities and regions, as well as satisfy other requirements.  

Which countries’ citizens are eligible for the 144-hour visa-free transit policy?  

To obtain this visa exemption, the foreign national must have a valid passport from one of the 54 countries, which are:  

• 25 countries in the Europe Schengen area : Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.  
• 15 other countries in Europe : Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, Monaco, and Belarus.  
• Six countries in the Americas: the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Chile.  
• Two countries in Oceania: Australia and New Zealand.  
• Six countries in Asia : South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.  

What are the requirements for the 144-hour visa-free transit policy?  

As per the requirements  of China’s Nat ional Immigration Authority (NIA), people applying for 144-hour visa-free transit must have:  

• A valid passport or another international travel document that is valid for more than three months from the arrival date;  
• An interline ticket (connecting ticket) with the confirmed departure date and seat number leaving for a third country or region within 144 hours; and  
• The landing card for foreigners in transit that is filled out upon arrival in China.  

You may also be required to answer some questions at immigration control upon arrival.  

Which cities can you travel to during the 144-hour visa-free transit?  

Despite the name, the 144-hour visa-free transit policy does not mean you can travel to any city in China. The places you can travel to depend on your exact port of entry.   

First introduced to three cities in East China’s Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang area in 2016, the 144-hour visa-free transit policy has expanded to 20 cities involving 29 ports. The eligible cities, corresponding entry ports, and scope of permitted travel areas are listed in the table below.  

It’s important to note that in most cases (except in Guangdong Province), you will be required to exit the country through one of the same ports that are permitted for entry . In most cases, this will be the same port as the one you arrived through.  

It is therefore important to pay attention to the permitted arrival airports, railway stations, or cruise ports for both entry and exit when planning your trip, and to make sure that your itinerary during your stay in China is within the permitted areas, to ensure you do not inadvertently cross into an area where you are not permitted or exit the country illegally.

Under what circumstances can the 144-hour visa-free transit be denied?  

The immigration officers at the border may refuse to issue you a temporary entry permit in any of the following circumstances:  

• If you are not allowed to enter China under Chinese laws or administrative regulations;  
• If your passport or other international travel document is expiring in less than three months, or contains a previous stamp of rejection by a Chinese visa-issuing agency;  
• If you have previously illegally entered or exited China, illegally resided in China, or illegally worked in China in the last five years; 
• If you have a record of violating accommodation registration regulations in the last two years, and the circumstances were considered “severe”;
• If you are not going to a third country after leaving China as the visa-free transit policy applies only to travelers bound for a third country and therefore transiting through China.

The 144-hour visa-free policy is not applicable to crew members of international aircraft or ships or their accompanying family members.

Things to note before your 144-hour visa-free stay in China

You are required to abide by all Chinese laws and regulations during your stay, and you cannot leave the permitted scope of travel or exceed the permitted duration of the transit.

If you stay in a hotel during your visit, the hotel will register your stay with the local police station using your passport or another international travel document (you will not be required to go to the police station in person, the hotel will only require to take a copy of your passport when you check in). Note that due to this requirement, not all hotels are able to host foreign guests. It is therefore best to check with the hotel in advance to ensure that they can accept foreign guests.

If you stay in another place, such as at a friend or family member’s home, you and your host must go and register at the local public security bureau (usually a police station, but it could also be a service station for foreigners) within 24 hours of your arrival. You will need to bring your passport, as well as your host’s housing contract (proof of address) and identification card. Online channels exist in some cities such as Shanghai. In practice, many foreign travelers may simply skip this step due as it can be cumbersome, but this could lead to unexpected problems in some cases, such as when the foreign traveler has to deal with police officers during some formal procedures.

In the event of an unexpected incident that means you need to stay beyond 144 hours, then you must apply to the immigration department at the local public security bureau for a corresponding stay permit.

You will be liable for punishment by the immigration authorities or border forces if you leave the permitted area, overstay the entry permit duration, leave China via an exit port other than the ones designated, or fail to register your accommodation in accordance with law

China’s 144-hour visa-free transit policy is an excellent option for short stopovers in China when traveling to a third country. With the many different ports available, you can now explore multiple areas of the country by choosing an entry port that covers the places you want to go to without having to apply for a tourist visa.

China Briefing is written and produced by  Dezan Shira & Associates . The practice assists foreign investors into China and has done so since 1992 through offices in Beijing, Tianjin, Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Suzhou, Guangzhou, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Please contact the firm for assistance in China at  [email protected] .

Dezan Shira & Associates has offices in  Vietnam ,  Indonesia ,  Singapore ,  United States ,  Germany ,  Italy ,  India , and  Russia , in addition to our trade research facilities along the  Belt & Road Initiative .   We also have partner firms assisting foreign investors in  The Philippines ,  Malaysia ,  Thailand ,  Bangladesh .

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China to allow visa-free entry for 6 nations

China will grant unilateral visa-free entry for up to 15 days to travelers holding ordinary passports of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia, the Foreign Ministry announced on Friday.

Starting Dec 1, the trial policy will be in effect for one year, until Nov 30, 2024, the ministry's spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a news conference.

Citizens of the five European countries and Malaysia can enter China without a visa for business, tourism, family visit and transit purposes, she said, adding that the measure is aimed at facilitating cross-border travel and promoting high-quality development and high-level opening-up.

This is China's latest effort to improve its visa policies. Earlier this month, it expanded its visa-free transit policy to 54 countries to include citizens of Norway.

China previously allowed citizens of Brunei, Japan and Singapore to enter without a visa, but suspended this after the COVID-19 outbreak. It resumed visa-free entry for citizens of Brunei and Singapore in July.

Since the beginning of the year, China has adopted several measures, including scrapping all COVID-19 testing requirements and ceasing online visa appointments in favor of walk-in visa application services, to ensure smooth channels for foreigners traveling to the country.

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1. 24 hour visa-free transit

Foreign citizens travelling to a third country or region through China by plane, ship or train may stay up to 24 hours in China without a visa. The application for a preliminary entry permit at the Chinese border is a requirement for the visa-free entry.

2. 72 hour visa-free transit

2.1 What are the requirements for a 72 hour visa-free transit?

a) Citizens of the following 53 countries: Germany, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, Great Britain, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, Monaco, Belarus, USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapur, Brunei, UAE and Qatar

b) The above-mentioned bear a travel document and a confirmed flight ticket to a third country or region (onward journey within 72 hours).

c) valid for international airports in the following 15 cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Dalian, Guangzhou, Guilin, Chonqing, Chengdu, Kunming, Xian, Xiamen, Wuhan, Harbin, Qingdao and Changsha.

2.2 How do I apply for the 72 hour visa-free transit on site?

Travellers should apply for the visa-free transit at the Chinese border either themselves or with the support of the responsible airline. An entry permission issued by the border control authorities is required for a visa-free transit.

3. 144 hour visa-free transit

Citizens of the 53 countries mentioned in 2.1 bearing a valid travel document and a confirmed flight ticket to a third country or region within 144 hours are entitled to stay in the following cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin and

the following provinces: Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Liaoning

without a Chinese visa.

Attention: Foreign travelers making use of the 144 hour visa-free transit need to bear a valid travel document and a confirmed flight ticket to a third country or region (onward journey within 144 hours). The respective carrier is responsible for the application for the visa-free transit. The respective carrier has to acquire the preliminary entry permit.

4. Journey to the province Hainan

Citizens of the following 59 countries with ordinary passports participating in a journey organized by a tour operator registered in Hainan may enter China at the border crossings open to foreigners in the Hainan province without a Chinese visa and stay up to 30 days: Germany, Russia, Great Britain, France, Norway, Ukraine, Italy, Austria, Finland, The Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Polen, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapur, Malaysia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, UAE, Qatar, Monaco, Belarus.

The hotels accommodating these tourists are responsible for their registration. Travelers not staying at hotels need to register at the local police or service station for foreigners within 24 hours after arrival.

Office Address: Invalidenstraße 116, Berlin, Germany Business hours: Monday-Friday (except Chinese and German public holidays)         Application Submission: 9:00AM-3:00PM Payment and Passport Collection: 9:00AM-4:00PM       

Contact information :Phone:+49(0)30979920000  (9:00AM-3:00PM )                                  Fax:+49(0)30979920001 E-mail: [email protected]

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Indians can now visit 62 countries visa-free; check the full list to know more.

India's passport has advanced to the 80th global position, per the Henley Passport Index. This newfound status allows Indian citizens visa-free travel to 62 countries, simplifying their exploration. Notable countries topping the index are France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain, granting their citizens access to 194 destinations without visa hassles. The United States holds the seventh spot with entry to 188 countries.

Henley Passport Index 2024: Six countries tie for the world's most powerful passport; India jumps 3 spots

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• Greece, Malta, Switzerland
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• Estonia, Lithuania
• Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia

Portugal's revamped golden visa scheme to boost investment funds

Indians in UAE to enjoy lower fares and faster Schengen visa processing time

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Minne Tabatha

China Visa-Free Countries 2024

China Visa-Free Countries 2024 . China passport is ranked 91 by visa list passport index 2024. Switzerland, ireland, hungary, austria, belgium, and luxembourg.

As of march 2024, chinese passport holders can travel visa free to 49 countries and territories: From december 1, 2023 to november 30, 2024, ordinary passport holders from the above countries who come to china for business, tourism,.

China Passport Is Ranked 91 By Visa List Passport Index 2024.

It is crucial to carefully.

According To The Latest Data From The National Bureau Of Statistics, About 489M Domestic.

Ordinary passport holders from these six countries can enter china for business, tourism, visiting relatives, or transit for up to 15 days without a visa from march.

Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, And Luxembourg.

Images references :, from december 1, 2023 to november 30, 2024, ordinary passport holders from the above countries who come to china for business, tourism,..

China passport is ranked 91 by visa list passport index 2024.

Airplanes Parked At The Beijing Capital International Airport, March 25, 2024.

Switzerland, ireland, hungary, austria, belgium, and luxembourg.

Currently, Most Travellers Need A Visa To Enter China.

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Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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