Do You Need a Visa to China?

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter China. However, citizens of certain countries may enjoy visa-free entry under specific conditions:

15-day visa-free entry: Singapore, Brunei, and Japan (for tourism, business, or family visits)

Transit visa exemptions:

24-hour transit: No visa needed if staying within the airport's transit area.

240-hour transit: Available at designated ports for travelers from 54 countries with confirmed onward tickets. The maximum stay is now 240 hours (10 days) at 60 eligible ports.

Asia (7 Countries): Republic of Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Indonesia.

Americas (6 Countries): the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Chile

Europe (40 Countries): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, and Norway

Oceania (2 Countries): Australia, New Zealand

Required Documents

Prepare the following for your application:

• Passport: Valid for ≥6 months with ≥2 blank pages.
• Completed Visa Application Form: Download from China Visa Application Service Center.
• Photo: One recent 2-inch color photo (white background, no headwear).
• Proof of Travel Plans:
• Round-trip flight bookings.
• Hotel reservations or invitation letter (if staying with friends/family).
• Financial Proof: Bank statements or credit card records showing sufficient funds.
• Additional Documents:
• For minors: Birth certificate and parental consent.
• For non-citizen applicants: Valid residency permit in your country of residence

Official Resources

National Immigration Administration: https://en.nia.gov.cn/

Embassy Locator: https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/eng/