China Visa & Entry Policy Updates (2025–2026) — Official Sources & Quick Reference
Compiled for stay2cn.com — "Visa & Entry" Board | Last Updated: May 2026China has significantly expanded its visa-free and visa facilitation policies since late 2024. Here's a comprehensive update for expats and travelers planning a trip to China.
1. 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy
Effective December 17, 2024, the 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit replaced the previous 72/144-hour policies.
Eligible Countries (55 Total):
• Europe (40): UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, etc.
• North America (2): Canada, United States
• South America (4): Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico
• Oceania (2): Australia, New Zealand
• Asia (7): Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Brunei, UAE, Qatar, Indonesia
Entry Ports (65 Total):
Covers 24 provincial regions including Beijing (Capital/Daxing), Shanghai (Pudong/Hongqiao), Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Xi'an, Hangzhou, Chongqing, and more.
Key Requirements:
• Valid passport (3+ months validity)
• Confirmed onward ticket to a third country/region
• Completed Arrival/Departure Card (can now be filled online)
• No limit on usage frequency
Recent Additions (Nov 5, 2025): 5 new ports in Guangdong:
Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station, Pazhou Ferry Terminal, Hengqin Port, Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge Zhuhai Port, Zhongshan Port.
2. Unilateral Visa Exemption (30 Days)
Nationals of 50 countries holding ordinary passports may enter China visa-free for up to 30 days. Valid mostly through December 31, 2026.
Latest additions:
• Feb 17, 2026: Canada, United Kingdom
• Nov 10, 2025: Sweden
• Sep 15, 2025: Russia
• Jun 9, 2025: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain
• Jun 1, 2025: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay
Full list includes most EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and more.
Important: You MUST apply for a visa in advance if you plan to stay more than 30 days or intend to work, study, reside, or conduct journalism.
3. Mutual Visa Exemption (29 Countries)
Including Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, UAE, Kazakhstan, Serbia, Mauritius, Maldives, Fiji, and more. Generally allows stays of up to 30 days.
4. Digital Facilitation (New!)
Online Arrival Card: Since Nov 20, 2025 — complete via NIA website, "NIA 12367" app, or WeChat/Alipay mini programs.
COVA Online Visa Application: Launched Sep 30, 2025. Official portal: https://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/
5. Other Notable Policies
• Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free: 59 countries; whole province
• Cruise Ship 15-Day Visa-Free: Foreign tour groups (2+ persons) via 13 coastal cities
• 24-Hour Direct Transit: All nationals; available at all international airports
Official Sources
• NIA Visa-Free Transit Policies: https://en.nia.gov.cn/n147418/n147463/c183412/content.html
• NIA Unilateral Visa Exemption: https://en.nia.gov.cn/n147418/n147463/c183390/content.html
• State Council (English): https://english.www.gov.cn/news/202412/17/content_WS6760ead6c6d0868f4e8ee0c1.html
• COVA Online Application: https://cova.mfa.gov.cn
• China Visa Application Service Center: https://www.visaforchina.cn/
Disclaimer: Policies are subject to change. Always verify with official Chinese embassies or the National Immigration Administration before traveling.
Questions or corrections? Drop a reply below!
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