[Official Guide] China Entry & Stay Policies: 2026 Quick Reference Table

Kurokun

Stay2CN Official Guide | Policy Updates | May 2026

This is a living reference document. Bookmark it. We'll update it as policies change.

Visa-Free Policies (As of May 2026)

30-Day Unilateral Exemption
• Eligible: 50 countries including EU, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ, Japan, Korea, Singapore, UAE
• Max stay: 30 days per entry
• Purpose: Tourism, business, family visit, transit
• Work allowed: No
• Valid until: December 31, 2026 (expected extension)

240-Hour Transit Exemption
• Eligible: 55 countries
• Max stay: 240 hours (10 days) from midnight after entry
• Ports: 65 airports, cruise ports, railway stations, and road crossings
• Requirement: Confirmed onward ticket to a third country/region

Mutual Exemption Agreements
• 29 countries have full visa-free agreements with China
• Most allow 30–90 days depending on the specific treaty
• Includes: Serbia, UAE, Qatar, Maldives, Kazakhstan, Thailand, Singapore, etc.

Visa Application Updates

COVA Online System:
• Launched: September 30, 2025
• Available for: Most visa types at most embassies
• Process: Apply online → book appointment → submit passport in person → collect visa
• Processing time: 4–7 working days (standard)

Online Arrival Card:
• Launched: November 20, 2025
• Available at: Major international airports (rolling out)
• Replaces: Paper arrival/departure card
• Access: WeChat mini-program or web QR code at airport

Residence Permit Rules

Work Residence Permit:
• Valid: 1–5 years depending on work permit category (A/B/C)
• Renewable: Yes, within 30 days of expiry
• Employer change: Requires new work permit application

Student Residence Permit:
• Valid: Duration of study program
• Part-time work: Allowed with university approval (limited hours)

Family Residence Permit:
• Valid: 1–5 years
• Tied to sponsor's permit status

Penalties for Overstay

• 1–10 days overstay: Warning + fine of ¥500/day
• 10+ days overstay: Higher fines + potential detention + entry ban
• Serious violations: 1–5 year entry ban

Found outdated info in this guide? Let us know and we'll correct it immediately.

Stay2CN Official Guides