Planning a trip to China and wondering which countries are visa free to China? If you’re from one of the lucky countries on the China visa free countries, you might not need a visa. This guide will outline the countries that enjoy China visa free travel to Mainland China and provide essential information about visa-free transit options.
China has established mutual visa exemption agreements with several countries. This means citizens from these countries can enter Mainland China without obtaining a visa for a specific duration.
Extension of this rule varies based on the country. Check with your respective China embassy in your country to check whether the rule is still valid.
Duration of stay allowed: 30 days
Purpose of visit: tourism, travel, business, visit family/friends.
Other purpose or duration, will need to apply for the right visa matching their purpose of stay in China.
List of countries with mutual visa exception agreements with China to stay up to 30 days visa-free:
Reciprocal Visa exemption countries with China:
From the day you entered China until midnight China time of the 30th day after the entry.
Effective November 30, 2024 (and until December 31, 2025); China has extended agreement from 15 days visa-free to 30 days visa-free to citizens of the above stated list of countries.
If you’re transiting through China, you may be eligible for a transit visa. This allows you to stay in China for a limited period without obtaining a regular tourist visa.
Note: Country before and after China need to be different. This is for travelers in transit only eg travelers must show a connecting ticket to a third country when arriving in China.
Visa-free transit is currently available to 54 nationalities including:
Travelers on a 24h visa free transit can enter all international airports in China but cannot leave the city where the airport is located.
Travelers on a 72h visa free transit can only enter through 3 ports in China:
Travelers on a 144h visa free transit can enter through 37 ports in China. Certain port require the traveler on this type of transit visa free to remain within the city or province. Double check the rule based on your entry port.
Tips from Frédérique, a Lumanian and former expat in China who regularly visits her son studying in Beijing:
Please note: China Visa Free policies can change including the list of China visa free countries. It’s always recommended to check with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.
