China operates a unilateral visa-free policy that allows citizens of designated countries to enter without a visa for short stays. This is not a visa-on-arrival — it is a genuine visa exemption. You simply show up at the border with the right documents.
Who Qualifies
As of February 2026, 50 countries are covered by China's unilateral visa-free policy. Eligible nationalities include most EU member states, Switzerland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Russia, and Brunei.
The policy for most countries is valid through December 31, 2026. Russia's policy extends to December 31, 2027. Brunei has no expiration date.
Permitted activities under the visa-free policy:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Business meetings and trade negotiations
- Visiting family or friends
- Academic and cultural exchanges
- Transit through China
NOT permitted:
- Paid employment or work of any kind
- Enrollment in study programs
- Long-term residence
- Journalism without authorization
How Long You Can Stay
The maximum stay is 30 days per entry, counted from midnight of the day after you arrive. For example, if you land on June 1, your stay begins counting on June 2, and you must depart by July 1.
There is no explicit limit on the number of entries per year under current policy, but frequent short-term re-entries may draw questions from border inspectors.
Required Documents at Entry
Border officers may ask for:
- Passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
- Return or onward flight ticket with confirmed date and seat
- Hotel booking confirmation or host's address and contact
- Completed Health Declaration Form (submitted online before arrival)
While not all travelers are asked for every document, you should carry printed or digital copies of everything.
