As China continues to introduce multiple visa-free policies these years, “China Travel” has become more popular than ever before. Due to the 144-hour time limit, many foreign tourists leave China only when they are about to meet the deadline. Many hope to have more ample time for their China tours and destination exploration. The following information will get you around the visa-free policy in China.
Specific Visa-free Policies
Unilateral Visa-free Policy
Unilateral visa-free policy refers to a country unilaterally agreeing to allow citizens of another country to enter without a visa, while the latter does not provide reciprocal visa-free treatment. As of now, China has implemented a unilateral visa-free policy for citizens of 38 countries holding ordinary passports who come to China for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, cultural exchanges, or transit for up to 30 days.
·Applicable Countries: Including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Malaysia, and 35 other countries, with a general stay limit of 30 days.
·Conditions: Visitors holding ordinary passports can enter China for tourism, business, visiting relatives and friends, or cultural exchanges.
Bilateral Visa Exemption Agreement
Under the bilateral visa exemption agreement, citizens of both countries holding valid passports or international travel documents as stipulated in the agreement can enjoy a visa-free stay, typically for 30 days, in the other country. However, if the stay exceeds 30 days or involves studying, residing, or working, an application must be made to the visa authorities or relevant departments before entry.
·Applicable Countries: China has established full visa exemption agreements with 24 countries.
·Conditions: Citizens of both countries can enjoy short-term stays in the other country with valid passports.
Transit Visa-free Policy
A transit visa allows the holder to pass through the country’s territory to a third country within a specified period through open or designated ports.
·Applicable Countries: A 72-hour or 144-hour transit visa-free policy is implemented for citizens of 54 countries.
·Stay Duration: Since December 2023, the transit visa-free stay has been extended to 240 hours (10 days).
Special Visa-free Policies
Regional Visa-free Policy
·Pearl River Delta Area: Tourists holding passports from countries that have diplomatic relations with China can enter the Pearl River Delta region of Guangdong through Hong Kong or Macau as part of a tour group organized by a legally registered travel agency, with a stay limit of 6 days.
·Hainan Island: Visitors from 59 countries can enter Hainan visa-free and stay for up to 30 days.
Tips for Utilizing China’s Visa-free Policy
China Group Tours
Travelers seeking a comprehensive and hassle-free experience can choose a reliable team for China group tours. Many China tours groups offer curated itineraries that allow you to explore the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities of China.
Purpose of Travel
Individuals from the eligible countries can visit China for tourism, visiting family and friends, conducting business, or transiting through the country. However, those intending to study, work, reside, or engage in media reporting and interviews must obtain a visa beforehand.
Duration of Stay
If your intended stay exceeds the permitted duration under the visa-free policy, it is necessary to apply for a visa in advance.
Territorial Scope
The visa-free policy applies only to mainland China. If you plan to visit Hong Kong or Macau, please refer to their respective visa policies for additional information.
