China Opens Its Doors: 50 Countries Now Enjoy Visa Free Travel

By Bao Ge · July 16, 2026 · 2 min read · 👁 0 views

Great news for globetrotters! Since 2025, China has rolled out a unilateral visa‑free policy for citizens of 50 countries. Whether you're dreaming of the Great Wall, planning a business trip to Shanghai, or visiting family in Shenzhen, getting here has never been easier.

Who's In?

Nationals from the following 50 countries holding valid ordinary passports can enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, for business, tourism, family visits, exchange programs, or transit.

Europe (35)

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

Asia (7)

Brunei, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain

Oceania (2)

Australia, New Zealand

Americas (6)

Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Canada

How Long Is This Valid?

Country

Policy Validity

Brunei

Indefinite – no expiry date

Russia

Until December 31, 2027

All other 48 countries

Until December 31, 2026

Please note: The above dates represent the current policy expiration. Extensions may be announced, always confirm with the latest official notices from Chinese authorities before you travel.

Key Rules at a Glance

Rule

Details

Stay Duration

30 days, counted from midnight of the day following entry

Permitted Purposes

Business, tourism, family/friend visits, exchange visits, transit

Entry Ports

All ports open to foreigners, sea, land, and air

Multiple Entries

Yes, no limits on entries or total stay days

What If You Need More Than 30 Days?

The visa‑free policy cannot be extended. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for the appropriate visa at a Chinese embassy or consulate before you travel.

Already in China under the visa‑free policy and need to extend due to legitimate reasons? You may apply for a stay permit at the local exit‑entry administration of the public security bureau. Approval is granted on a case‑by‑case basis.

Who Is NOT Eligible?

This policy does not apply to:

  • Foreign nationals coming to China for work, study, or news coverage
  • Holders of temporary documents (e.g., emergency passports)

Final Important Note

Policies are subject to change. Always confirm the latest information with the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate, or check the official website of the National Immigration Administration below before your trip.

https://en.nia.gov.cn/n147418/n147463/c180637/content.html

Pack your bags. China is waiting.

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