Entry Policy for France, Germany, Italy, Spain…

The Chinese government has recently implemented a 30-day visa-free policy for citizens holding ordinary passports from a selection of countries, including Australia, France, Germany, Italy, and 34 others. This policy allows individuals from these countries to enter China without a visa for purposes such as business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit, for a period not exceeding 30 days, until December 31, 2025. However, individuals from these countries who do not meet the visa-free conditions will still be required to apply for a visa before entering China.

The list of eligible countries includes various European nations such as Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Switzerland. Additionally, countries from Oceania, including Australia and New Zealand, as well as Asian countries like Malaysia, South Korea, Brunei, and Japan, are also included in the list of eligible countries.

1.How will Chinese border inspection authorities verify the purpose of entry? Are there any additional documents required besides my passport for entry into the country?

Foreigners who are entering the country for purposes such as business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, or transit are welcome to do so under the visa-free policy regulations. However, they must first be checked and approved by Chinese border inspection authorities in accordance with the law. On the other hand, foreigners whose purpose of entry does not comply with the visa-free policy regulations or who have other legal reasons preventing entry will not be allowed to enter the country, as decided by the border inspection authorities in accordance with the law.

It is advisable for travelers to bring supporting materials that align with the purpose of their visit, such as invitation letters, air tickets, and hotel reservations. It is important to note that individuals coming to China for work, study, or interviews are not eligible for visa-free entry.

2. How is the 30-day stay period calculated?

Foreign nationals who meet the visa-free entry requirements for China are permitted to stay in the country continuously from the day of entry until 24:00 on the 30th natural day.

3. Can I depart from a non-nationality country?

Foreigners who meet the visa-free entry requirements for China are able to depart from any country or region outside of China.

4. Does it apply to other modes of entry other than air?

The unilateral visa-free entry policy applies to all sea, land, and airports open to foreigners, unless specified otherwise by laws, regulations, or bilateral agreements. If you are arriving in China using your own mode of transportation, it is important to comply with Chinese laws and regulations when processing entry and exit procedures for your vehicle.

5. If my stay in China exceeds 30 days, can I apply for an extension?

Foreigners planning to stay in China for more than 30 days must apply for a visa that aligns with their purpose of entry at a Chinese embassy or consulate before their arrival. If a foreigner enters China under the visa-free policy but needs to extend their stay for valid reasons, they must request a stay permit from the exit-entry administration agency of the public security organ.

6. Can I enter multiple times? Are there any requirements for the interval between entries? Are there any restrictions on the number of visa-free entries and the total number of days of stay?

Foreigners who meet the visa-free entry requirements for China are eligible to apply for the visa-free policy multiple times in order to enter the country. Currently, there are no restrictions on the number of visa-free entries or the total number of days allowed for stay. However, it is important to note that engaging in activities that are not in line with the purpose of entry is strictly prohibited.

Other China Visa Free Policies

30 Days Visa Free – 25 Countries Mutual Exemption of Visa with China

Citizens from the following countries holding a valid ordinary passport are not required to obtain a visa for entry, exit, or transit in the territory of the other contracting party. They are allowed a single stay not exceeding 30 days and a cumulative stay not exceeding 90 days within a 180-day period.

The eligible countries include a variety of nations from different regions. From Asia, countries such as Thailand, Singapore, Maldives, Kazakhstan, the UAE, Qatar, Armenia, and Georgia are included. European countries like Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and San Marino are also on the list. African countries represented are Mauritius and Seychelles. Oceania countries such as Fiji, Tonga, and Solomon Islands are included, as well as North American countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Ecuador, Grenada, and the Bahamas. Lastly, the South American country of Suriname is also eligible for visa exemption.

China 240-Hour Visa Free Transit

Citizens from 54 countries holding an ordinary passport with a minimum of 3 months validity and a confirmed onward flight, train, or cruise ticket to a third country or region can now enjoy visa-free transit in designated areas of 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in Mainland China for up to 240 hours.

Under this new policy, travelers are permitted to explore various provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities within the designated stay areas. For instance, you could arrive in Beijing and then venture to cities like Xi’an, Shanghai, or Chengdu, as long as your total stay does not exceed the 240-hour limit. This provides a unique opportunity to experience the diverse culture and attractions that China has to offer within a limited timeframe.