China Visa-Free Checker

How China's visa-free policies work in 2026

China currently operates three different doors for visa-free visitors, and travelers regularly confuse them:

1. 30-day unilateral visa-free entry. China grants passport holders from 50 countries — most of Europe (including the UK, added February 2026), Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and much of South America and the Gulf — entry for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, or transit. No application, no fee: you simply board your flight and clear immigration.
2. Mutual visa-free agreements. Countries like Singapore, Thailand, the UAE, and Serbia have permanent two-way agreements with China. Durations vary from 30 to 90 days.
3. 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit. Citizens of 55 countries — most notably the United States, plus Mexico, Indonesia, and others without a 30-day option — can stay up to 240 hours when transiting through China to a third country or region. Flying US → Beijing → US does not qualify; US → Beijing → Tokyo does.

Frequently asked questions

Does a return flight home count as "transit to a third country"?

No. The 240-hour transit policy requires an onward ticket to a country or region different from the one you arrived from. Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan count as onward destinations.

Do I need to book hotels before arriving visa-free?

You may be asked for accommodation details and an onward ticket at check-in or immigration. Have your first hotel booking and exit ticket ready to show.

Can I extend a visa-free stay?

Generally no. If you plan to stay longer than your visa-free window, apply for a visa before traveling.

My country isn't on any list. What now?

You'll need a tourist (L) visa from a Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa application center before you travel. Processing typically takes about a week.