Visa-free policies

Learn about China's visa-free entry policies and eligibility requirements.

240-hour visa-free transit policy

China has rolled out a 240-hour visa-free transit policy allowing nationals of 57 countries to enter China visa-free when transiting to a third country or region.

24-hour visa-free transit policy

Foreign nationals who intend to transit through China to a third country or region by international flight, ship, or train may remain in China for up to 24 hours without a visa.

Visa-free entry policy

China has been opening its doors wider to international travelers. So far, the country has expanded its unilateral visa-free policy to cover 50 countries.

Guide for overseas visitors to enter and exit Eastern Hub Intl Business Cooperation Zone

The following are detailed entry and exit procedures for overseas visitors.

Visa application

Depending on nationality, purpose of travel, and length of stay, foreigners may need a Chinese visa to come to Shanghai.

Applying for an L (tourist) visa

Foreign nationals traveling to China for tourism purposes may be required to obtain a tourist visa.

Applying for an F (visitor) visa

The F visa is issued to foreign nationals entering China for exchanges, visits, study tours, or other relevant activities.

Applying for an M (business) visa

Foreign nationals traveling to China for commercial or trade activities may apply for an M (business) visa.

Applying for a Q (family visit) visa

The Q visa is issued to persons who intend to enter China for family reunion or a short-term family visit with Chinese citizens residing in China or foreigners with permanent residence status in China.

Applying for an S (private matter) visa

The S visa is issued to persons who intend to visit family members who are foreign nationals staying or residing in China for work, study, or other purposes.

Applying for a Z (work) visa

Foreign nationals who are not Chinese citizens or permanent residents of China generally need a Z visa to enter the country for work purposes.

Applying for an X (study) visa

An X (study) visa is issued to individuals intending to study in China.

Applying for a port visa

A port visa allows eligible foreign ordinary passport holders with an urgent need to enter China to apply for entry at a Chinese port.

Visa extension, change, reissuance

This guide explains the procedures for foreign nationals to extend, replace, or reissue their ordinary visas while in China.

A guide to visa extension, change, and reissuance

Online appointment for visa stay extension (foreign nationals)