China 30-Day Visa-Free Countries (2026 Update)
As of November 3, 2025, China has expanded its 30-day unilateral visa-free policy, allowing citizens from 46 countries to visit China without applying for a visa until the end of 2026. Along with existing mutual visa exemption agreements, this update makes traveling to China easier than ever and demonstrates the country’s strong commitment to welcoming more international visitors.
This 30-day visa-free policy is a perfect opportunity to explore China in a deeper and more flexible way, from the Great Wall and Shanghai’s skyline to Zhangjiajie’s sandstone peaks and Guilin’s karst scenery.
In this updated guide, you’ll find the complete list of China’s 30-day visa-free eligible countries, the latest policy details and practical tips to help you to plan your trip to China with confidence.
For a full overview of all China visa-free travel options including transit and regional exemptions, see our detailed guide: China Visa-Free Entry Policy
Table of Contents
Overview of China’s 30-Day Visa-Free Entry Policy
As of September 2025, China offers 30-day visa-free entry through two main channels:
- Mutual visa exemption agreements – reciprocal arrangements between China and 29 countries.
- Unilateral visa-free policy – China’s own initiative allowing citizens from 48 countries to visit without requiring reciprocity.
Together, these cover 77 countries whose citizens can visit China for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, or cultural exchange.
This update highlights China’s continued effort to attract international travelers and simplify cross-border movement through easier entry rules.
China 30-Day Visa-Free Countries under Mutual agreements
China has signed mutual visa exemption agreements with 29 countries, allowing ordinary passport holders to stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa. These agreements foster stronger bilateral travel, investment, and cultural cooperation.
| No. | Country | Effective Date |
| 1 | Albania | March 18, 2023 |
| 2 | United Arab Emirates | January 16, 2018 |
| 3 | Antigua and Barbuda | May 11, 2024 |
| 4 | Barbados | June 1, 2017 |
| 5 | Bahamas | February 12, 2014 |
| 6 | Belarus | August 10, 2018 |
| 7 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | May 29, 2018 |
| 8 | Dominica | September 19, 2022 |
| 9 | Ecuador | August 18, 2016 |
| 10 | Fiji | March 14, 2015 |
| 11 | Grenada | June 10, 2015 |
| 12 | Georgia | May 28, 2024 |
| 13 | Qatar | December 21, 2018 |
| 14 | Kazakhstan | November 10, 2023 |
| 15 | Maldives | May 20, 2022 |
| 16 | Mauritius (60 Days) | June 14, 2017 |
| 17 | Serbia | January 15, 2017 |
| 18 | Seychelles | June 26, 2013 |
| 19 | San Marino | July 22, 1985 |
| 20 | Solomon Islands | December 28, 2024 |
| 21 | Suriname | May 1, 2021 |
| 22 | Thailand | March 1, 2024 |
| 23 | Tonga | August 19, 2016 |
| 24 | Singapore | February 9, 2024 |
| 25 | Armenia | January 19, 2020 |
| 26 | Uzbekistan | June 1, 2025 |
| 27 | Samoa | April 2, 2025 |
| 28 | Azerbaijan | July 16, 2025 |
| 29 | Malaysia | July 17, 2025 |
China’s Unilateral 30-Day Visa-Free Countries List
China’s unilateral visa-free program, first introduced in late 2023, continues to expand. As of November 3, 2025, citizens from 48 countries, including the newest additions Russia and Sweden, can enter and stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa.
With the visa free policy now extended through December 31, 2026, it is the best time to start planning your China holiday. This update makes traveling across the country easier than ever, from walking along the Great Wall and exploring Shanghai’s modern charm to discovering Tibet’s sacred landscapes. As your local China travel experts, we will handle every detail so you can enjoy a smooth visa free journey filled with culture, nature, and unforgettable experiences in the coming 2026.
Key Highlights of the Updated Visa-Free Policy:
- Stay Duration: Up to 30 days per entry.
- Purpose: Tourism, business, family visits, or cultural exchange.
- Validity:
- Most countries: until Dec 31 2026 (Officially extended by China on Nov. 3rd 2025).
- Russia: Valid September 15, 2025 – September 14, 2026
Eligible Countries for China’s Unilateral Visa-Free Entry Policy
| No. | Country | Effective Date | Expiration Date |
| 1 | Brunei | July 26, 2023 | December 31, 2025 |
| 2 | France | December 1, 2023 | December 31, 2026 |
| 3 | Germany | December 1, 2023 | December 31, 2026 |
| 4 | Italy | December 1, 2023 | December 31, 2026 |
| 5 | The Netherlands | December 1, 2023 | December 31, 2026 |
| 6 | Spain | December 1, 2023 | December 31, 2026 |
| 7 | Switzerland | March 14, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 8 | Ireland | March 14, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 9 | Hungary | March 14, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 10 | Austria | March 14, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 11 | Belgium | March 14, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 12 | Luxembourg | March 14, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 13 | New Zealand | July 1, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 14 | Australia | July 1, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 15 | Poland | July 1, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 16 | Portugal | October 15, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 17 | Greece | October 15, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 18 | Cyprus | October 15, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 19 | Slovenia | October 15, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 20 | Norway | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 21 | Slovakia | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 22 | Finland | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 23 | Denmark | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 24 | Iceland | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 25 | Andorra | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 26 | Monaco | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 27 | Liechtenstein | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 28 | South Korea | November 8, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 29 | Bulgaria | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 30 | Romania | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 31 | Croatia | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 32 | Montenegro | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 33 | North Macedonia | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 34 | Malta | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 35 | Estonia | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 36 | Latvia | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 37 | Japan | November 30, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| 38 | Brazil | June 1, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 39 | Argentina | June 1, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 40 | Chile | June 1, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 41 | Peru | June 1, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 42 | Uruguay | June 1, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 43 | Saudi Arabia | June 9, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 44 | Oman | June 9, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 45 | Kuwait, | June 9, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 46 | Bahrain | June 9, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
| 47 | Russia | September 15, 2025 | September 14, 2026 |
| 48 | Sweden | November 20, 2025 | December 31, 2026 |
Travel Tips for 30-Day Visa-Free Visitors to China
If you’re visiting under the China 30-day visa-free entry policy, a few practical preparations will make your trip smoother, especially when traveling independently or joining a local tour.
Passport & Onward Ticket
Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond entry and you have a printed copy of your confirmed return or onward flight ticket. Chinese immigration often asks to see the physical ticket or e-confirmation at entry, especially for visa-free travelers.
Register Your Accommodation Properly
Hotels in China automatically register foreign guests with local authorities.
If you’re staying in a private home or Airbnb, you or your host must register at the nearest Public Security Bureau (PSB) within 24 hours of arrival, a legal requirement for all foreigners.
Plan Within the Permitted Areas
Visa-free travelers can move freely within China’s mainland, visiting major cities such as Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guilin, and Zhangjiajie.
However, restricted regions like Tibet and parts of Xinjiang still require special travel permits.
Choose Major Ports of Entry
For smoother arrival and departure, we recommend entering through one of the following airports, where immigration officers handle visa-free entries frequently:
Beijing Capital (PEK), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX), Chengdu Tianfu (TFU), or Kunming Changshui (KMG).
Respect the 30-Day Limit
Your stay cannot exceed 30 consecutive days. Extensions are rarely granted except for emergencies (e.g. flight delays or illness). In such cases, apply in person at the local Exit-Entry Administration before your period expires.
Payments, SIM Cards & Internet Access
Most stores and attractions in China now use WeChat Pay or Alipay. Both apps support foreign credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).
You can buy a local SIM card at the airport with your passport, or use eSIM services for better connectivity.
Download a VPN before arrival if you want access to Gmail, WhatsApp, or Instagram, these apps are restricted in China.
If your country isn’t listed among the 30-day visa-free nations but you plan a short layover, read our China 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy to see how you can explore China for up to 10 days during your transit.
FAQs – China 30-Day Visa-Free Entry (2025 Update)
Who is eligible for the 30-day visa-free entry to China?
Citizens from 77 countries are eligible under China’s mutual visa exemption agreements and unilateral visa-free policy.
This includes travelers from Malaysia, Japan, France, Germany, Thailand, Brazil, Australia, and more.
You only need a valid passport (with 3 + months’ validity), a confirmed onward or return ticket, and entry via an approved international port.
See the full list of eligible countries above.
How long can I stay in China under the 30-day visa-free policy?
Most travelers can stay in China for up to 30 days per entry under the visa-free policy.
For most eligible countries, the policy is valid until December 31, 2026, while for Russia, it remains valid until September 14, 2026.
Can I visit multiple cities during my visa-free stay?
Yes. Visa-free travelers can visit multiple cities and provinces across mainland China within 30 days. However, travel to Tibet and certain restricted regions requires additional permits.
WindhorseTour can help arrange Tibet travel permits and itineraries if you wish to include that region.
Do I need to apply or register in advance?
No pre-application is needed.
Just arrive with your valid passport, onward ticket, and hotel booking.
Entry officers will issue a 30-day stay upon arrival.
If staying in a private residence, you (or your host) must register at the local police station within 24 hours.
Can I extend my 30-day visa-free stay if needed?
Extensions are generally not allowed not permitted unless for emergencies like illness or flight cancellations.
Or exit to a nearby region or country such as Hong Kong, Thailand, or Japan, then re-enter to start a new 30-day visa-free period.
What type of travel is allowed under this policy?
Tourism, business visits, family visits, and cultural exchanges are allowed. Activities involving work or study require a separate visa.
Plan Your Visa-Free China Trip with WindhorseTour
Take advantage of China’s 30-day visa-free policy and explore the country with ease. Discover our carefully crafted China tours or speak with our travel experts to design a custom China itinerary that fits perfectly within your visa-free stay.
Start planning your visa-free China trip today with WindhorseTour — your trusted local travel expert. China awaits you with open arms.
You May Also Like:
– China Visa-Free Entry 2025: Updated Guide to Eligible Countries and Rules
– China 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy
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Comments
I am USA citizen, do I need visa to visit china for less than 10 days?
Dear Darack,
Thank you for reaching out.
U.S. citizens usually need a visa to visit China. However, for trips of up to 10 days, you may qualify for China’s 240-hour (10-day) transit visa-free policy.
You can travel visa-free if:
Your route is USA → China → a third country/region
Your stay in China is under 10 days
You enter and exit through eligible cities
Examples that qualify:
USA → Shanghai → Japan
USA → Beijing → Hong Kong
Does not qualify:
USA → China → USA (round trip)
If you’re unsure, feel free to share your flight plan and we’ll help you check.
Best regards,
Eva
3 ADULTS, AMERICAN CITIZEN WITH USA PASSPORT TRAVELING FROM APRIL 22 TO APRIL 30,2026 TO BUSAN SOUTH KOREA TO BEIJING TO XI'AN TO SHANGHAI TO LOS ANGELES USA FINAL DESTINATION CHICAGO IL USA FOR 8 DAYS NEED A VISA ???