China's 30-Day Visa-Free Policy: The Complete Country List (2026)

If you are planning to visit China for tourism, family visits, business, or a short exchange program, the first step is to check whether your passport is covered by China's current 30-day unilateral visa-free policy.

As of May 13, 2026, the policy covers ordinary-passport holders from 50 countries. Eligible travelers entering for business, sightseeing, family or friend visits, exchanges, or transit may stay up to 30 days per entry without applying for a visa.

Data last verified: May 13, 2026

1. The Full List of 30-Day Visa-Free Countries

2. Who Qualifies

To enter visa-free you must meet all of the following conditions:

1. Hold a valid ordinary passport from one of the countries listed above.
2. Enter for business, sightseeing, visiting family or friends, an exchange visit, or transit.
3. Stay in mainland China for no more than 30 days.
4. Accept inspection by China's border-check authorities upon entry.

Note that visa-free eligibility does not guarantee entry — border officers may still verify your travel purpose, itinerary, and accommodation details.

3. Recommended Documents for Arrival

Although no visa is required, we recommend having the following ready before departure:

• Valid ordinary passport
• Return or onward ticket
• Hotel booking or accommodation address in China
• A rough travel itinerary
• Business invitation letter, family-invitation details, or proof of exchange activities
• Emergency contact information
• Travel insurance or medical coverage details

If your purpose does not fit the visa-free categories — for example work, long-term study, or journalism — apply for the corresponding Chinese visa in advance.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the 30 days start on the day I arrive?

No. The 30-day stay is generally counted from the day after entry, allowing 30 consecutive calendar days.

2. Can I enter China visa-free more than once?

Yes. There is currently no cap on the number of visa-free entries or cumulative days, as long as each entry matches an eligible purpose.

3. Can I travel to China from a third country?

Yes. Eligible travelers may depart from any country or region outside China — you do not have to fly from your home country.

4. Does the policy apply only to air arrivals?

No. The visa-free policy applies to air, land, and sea ports that are open to foreign travelers, subject to on-site inspection requirements.

5. What if I want to stay longer than 30 days?

Apply for an appropriate visa before departure. If you have already entered visa-free and need to stay longer for legitimate reasons, apply to China's exit-entry administration for a stay permit.

6. Why are Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand not on the list?

This table covers only China's unilateral 30-day policy. Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand are covered by mutual visa-exemption agreements with China — a separate category of policy. Always check the latest rules for your passport before you travel.

5. Final Reminders

China's visa-free policies are adjusted in line with bilateral relations, immigration arrangements, and official announcements. Before departure, re-check the latest notices from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chinese embassies and consulates, the National Immigration Administration, or the Chinese Visa Application Service Center.

Beyond visa questions, first-time visitors should also prepare payment methods, mobile internet, transport apps, hotel addresses, and a few useful Chinese phrases — it makes entry and the whole journey noticeably smoother.