China has refined its visa-free policies to enhance international engagement and strengthen ties and mutual understanding between Chinese citizens and the global community. Below is an overview of the nation's updated visa-free policies. 

Visa-free entry 

China now grants unilateral visa-free access and has signed mutual visa exemption agreements with 77 countries. 

Unilateral visa exemption 

Holders of ordinary passports from the following 48 countries may enter and stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa for business, tourism, exchange, transit, or visiting family. 

Visa-free travel to China: Things you need to know

Mutual visa exemption

Citizens of the following 29 countries holding any type of passport generally do not need to apply for a visa in advance for short-term travel to China. 

24-hour visa-free transit

China implements a 24-hour transit visa exemption policy at all its open ports to travelers of all countries. Foreign nationals holding valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets to a third country or region via aircraft, ship, or train may stay in China for up to 24 hours without a visa. 

FAQs on China's 24-hour visa-free transit for intl travelers

240-hour visa-free transit

In addition to the 24-hour visa-free transit, China now offers an extended 240-hour visa-free stay for travelers from 55 countries. Visitors from these countries can stay in China for up to 240 hours without a visa when transiting through designated entry points. 

Click here to learn more about 240-hour visa-free transit

Visa-free entry for cruise ship passengers

International tourist groups arriving by cruise ship can now enjoy visa-free entry into China. Groups of two or more, organized and received by Chinese travel agencies, may enter through any coastal port and stay for up to 15 days without a visa.

See the detailed information about visa-free cruise trips here

Updated on Nov 6, 2025

Sources: National Immigration Administration, Ministry of Foreign Affairs