Notice on Latest Visa and Entry Policies for Foreigners Entering China – Updated on December 18, 2024:
1. China has launched a 30 Days Visa-free Policy for 38 eligible countries, including several European nations — 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. In Oceania, Australia and New Zealand are listed, while in Asia, Malaysia, South Korea, Brunei, and Japan are included. This policy is valid till December 31, 2025.
2.The 240-Hour Visa Free Transit program, allowing for a 10-day stay, has been recently introduced. A total of 54 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Brazil, and others, are eligible for this program. Travelers who qualify can now explore multiple provinces during their stay, such as traveling from Beijing to Xian and then to Shanghai. Additionally, the Mohan Railway Port at the China-Laos border can be utilized for entry and exit into Yunnan province. Furthermore, the Hong Kong High-speed Rail West Kowloon Station has been included in the Guangdong Province 240-hour transit visa-free policy.
3.Currently, China has successfully negotiated full visa exemption agreements with 25 countries across various regions. These countries include Thailand, Singapore, Maldives, Kazakhstan, the UAE, Qatar, Armenia, and Georgia in Asia; Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and San Marino in Europe; Mauritius and Seychelles in Africa; Fiji, Tonga, and Solomon Islands in Oceania; Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Ecuador, Grenada, and Bahamas in North America; and Suriname in South America. This demonstrates China’s commitment to fostering international relations and promoting tourism.
4.When applying for a Chinese Tourist Visa, U.S. nationals are not required to provide booking confirmations for flights and hotels, China itineraries, or invitation letters.
5. An appointment is not required for visa applications at many embassies and consulates.
China Discovery is dedicated to staying informed about the most recent Chinese visa and entry policies. For further information, you can also contact +86 010 12367, the official telephone number of the China National Immigration Administration. We invite you to join our Facebook Groups to stay up-to-date with the latest news!”
Are you planning a trip to China and unsure about whether you need a visa to visit? Fear not, China Discovery is here to assist you with all your travel arrangements, including the crucial matter of obtaining a Chinese visa.
China Visa policy varies from different nationalities, destinations and particular travel itinerary and ways of visiting.
Foreign nationals typically require a Chinese visa in order to enter and travel within China prior to their departure. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Visitors may be able to enter China without a visa if they meet the requirements of the 240-hour visa-free policy, the 24-hour visa-free transit policy, or other visa-free scenarios.
China Visa Free and Visa Needed Regulations
It is crucial to determine whether you require a visa for China. Therefore, it is important to understand the two fundamental rules regarding China visas: the China Visa Free Policy and the requirement for a China Visa. It is essential to note that China Visa Free entry does not apply to all individuals at all times. This policy is only applicable to specific citizens, designated visiting cities or regions, and has a limited duration of stay.
When applying for a Chinese visa, you will generally be able to visit mainland China. However, it is important to be aware that the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau have separate visa and permit regulations that differ from the standard China Visa requirements.
We recommend that you first review the Visa Exemptions to determine if you are eligible for visa-free travel to China. This will help you understand the specific requirements and regulations that apply to your situation.
When Can I Visit China without A Visa?
There are currently over 10 types of visa-free regulations for China. Meeting any of these criteria allows you to enter China without the need to apply for a visa in advance. Please review the following details to determine if a visa is necessary for your trip to China.
- ① Temporary 30 Days Visa Free for Germany, France, Australia…
- ② Hong Kong SAR Visa Free
- ③ Macau SAR Visa Free
- ④ Visa Free Transit in China
- ⑤ Hainan Visa Free for 59 Countries for 30 Days
- ⑥ Visa-free Group Tour to Pearl River Delta from HK/Macau for 6 Days
- ⑦ Visa Free for APEC Business Travel Card Holders for 60 Days
- ⑧ Visa-free Group Tour of ASEAN Nationals to Guilin for 6 Days
- ⑨ Visa-free Cruise Group Tour Entering from Shanghai for 15 Days
- ⑩ Mutual Visa Exemption between China and Foreign Countries
- ⑪ Visa Free for China Residence Permit Holders
- ⑫ Special Visa Free in China Boder Areas
When Do I Need A Visa for China?
After reviewing China’s visa-free policy, it is evident that a China visa is required for entry if one does not meet any of the aforementioned exceptions. It is important to note that mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau each have distinct visa regulations. Therefore, it is essential to apply for the appropriate visa based on the purpose, destination, and duration of your visit to China.
- ⑴ Visa for Mainland of China
- ⑵ Visa for Hong Kong SAR
- ⑶ Visa for Macau SAR
How to Get a Visa for China – Useful Chinese Visa Application Notes
❶ Find out what kind of visa you need
Explore the various types of Chinese visas to determine the most suitable option for your specific needs. Consider factors such as the purpose of your visit, whether it be for travel, business, work, transit, family reunion, or other reasons. The China Tourist Visa (L Visa) is ideal for those traveling for leisure, while the F Visa is designed for exchanges and study tours. The Business Visa (M Visa) is tailored for commercial and trade purposes, and the Student Visa (X Visa) is intended for individuals studying in China. For a comprehensive list of Chinese visa types, continue reading below.
❷ Apply for a Chinese Visa
According to the various visa policies in place, individuals who meet the necessary requirements are able to submit their China visa application at the Chinese Embassy, Diplomatic and Consular Missions, or special ports of entry. In order to successfully apply for a visa, you must ensure that you have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining, as well as blank pages for stamping. Additionally, you will need to provide a copy of the first page of your passport, a completed visa application form with 2 recent color photos (taken within the last 6 months, with a white background and dimensions of 48mmx33mm), the required visa fee and service charge, and any other supporting documents that may be necessary. For more information on how to apply for a visa for China, please continue reading below.
❸ Collect & check your China visa
The processing time for visas varies depending on the type. Typically, it takes approximately 4 to 5 business days for applicants to receive a China Visa, with the exact collection date specified on the pick-up slip. For example, if you submit a China Tourist Visa (L Visa) on Monday, you can pick it up on Thursday.
After receiving your passport back, it is crucial to carefully review the visa type, duration of stay, and number of entries to ensure they have been issued correctly. It is also important to double-check the validity of the visa before planning to enter China, as failure to do so may result in denial of entry.
Most Recommended China Visa-free Tours
In recent times, it has become increasingly popular for international tourists to take advantage of China’s Visa Free Policy in order to travel to the country in a simple and convenient manner. Many travelers are eager to explore Hong Kong and other major tourist cities in mainland China by utilizing the 24-Hour and 240-Hour Visa Free Transit options. This allows visitors to make a stopover in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Xian for up to 10 days without the need for a visa. From there, travelers can continue their journey to Hong Kong to experience the stunning skyline of this vibrant World City. The length of stay in Hong Kong will vary depending on the traveler’s nationality.
We offer a selection of our most highly recommended visa-free tours, including visits to Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Guilin, and Hong Kong. Additionally, we are happy to assist you in planning more visa-free city tours and exploring other destinations in China. Feel free to contact us for more information and to start planning your unforgettable trip to China!
Popular China Visa-free Tours:
● 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Great Wall Hiking
● 5 Days Beijing Essence Tour & Hutong Life Experience
● 3 Days Shanghai Past and Present Contrast Tour
● 3 Days Shanghai Highlights & Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour
● 2 Days Xian City Break
● 3 Days Classic Xian Tour
● 2 Days Guilin Ideal Li River Cruise with Yangshuo Essence
● 3 Days Classic Guilin Tour – Guilin Brief Vacation
● 3 Days Chengdu City Break including Panda Volunteering
● 3 Days Chengdu Highlights Tour
● 1 Day Valuable Hong Kong Tour
● 2 Days Essence of Hong Kong Tour
Beijing's Top Picks
