The Ultimate Guide to China's 30-Day Visa-Free Policy: Are You Eligible?

 Travel to China Just Got Easier!

Great news for global travelers! As of November 2025, China has updated its unilateral visa-free policy, allowing citizens from 48 countries to visit China for up to 30 days without the hassle of applying for a visa.

Here is everything you need to know to plan your trip.

1. Who is Eligible? (The Country List)

Holders of ordinary passports from the following 48 countries can now enter China visa-free:

Europe: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Sweden, Russia.

Asia & Oceania: Brunei, South Korea, Japan, New Zealand, Australia.

Americas: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay.

Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain.

2. What Can You Do? (Permitted Activities)

You can utilize this visa-free entry for the following purposes:

✅ Tourism & Sightseeing (Individual or Group Tours)

✅ Business (Commercial trade)

✅ Visiting Family or Friends

✅ Transit (Connecting flights)

✅ Short-term Exchange/Visits

✅ Sports, Exhibitions, & Study Tours (e.g., Summer camps, provided stay is < 30 days)

🚫 What is NOT allowed? You cannot work, study long-term, or engage in journalism/reporting under this policy.

3. Key Rules & Validity

Duration: You can stay for up to 30 days. The count starts from the day after you enter.

Policy Expiry Date:

Russia: Valid until September 14, 2026.

Brunei: No expiry date (Indefinite).

Other 46 Countries: Valid until December 31, 2026.

Passport Requirement: You must hold a valid ordinary passport. Emergency, temporary, or service passports are not eligible.

4. Frequent Traveler FAQs

Q: Can I enter multiple times? A: Yes! There is currently no limit on the number of entries or the total days you can stay in a year. You can enter, leave, and enter again, as long as each stay is within 30 days.

Q: Do I need to fly from my home country?

A: No. You can enter China from any country or region outside of China.

Q: Which ports can I use?

A: You can enter via any open port in China—Airports, Land Borders, or Seaports.

Q: What documents do I need to show at the border? A: Immigration officers may ask to see supporting documents. We strongly recommend carrying:

Return flight tickets or onward travel tickets.

Hotel booking confirmations.

Invitation letters (if visiting business partners or family).

Q: Can I extend my trip beyond 30 days? A: If you need to stay longer for a legitimate reason, you must apply for a stay permit at the local Public Security Bureau before your 30 days represent up. However, if you know you need more than 30 days before you travel, please apply for a regular visa at a consulate instead.

 Sunny’s Pro-Tips

For Families: Minors (children) follow the exact same rules as adults.

Check Your Passport: Ensure your passport validity covers your entire planned stay in China.

Lost Passport? If you lose your passport while in China, don't panic. You can exit using an emergency travel document issued by your embassy, provided your ID and entry record are verified by Chinese immigration.