Visa-free policies

China has implemented a series of visa-free policies to streamline travel for foreign nationals visiting the country. These policies include visa-free transit, visa-free entry, and mutual visa exemption agreements,.

240-hour visa-free transit

You can now easily explore the wonders of Shanghai and many other regions across China with the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, making the most of your extended layover.

The guide to applying for a Chinese visa

Whether you want to come to Shanghai for business, work, or travel, you will likely need a Chinese visa.

Notice on special visa facilitation for foreign business people

To make it easier for foreign business people to come to Shanghai for business activities, the following visa facilitation measures will be implemented.

China extends visa-free transit stays to 240 hours

China has optimized its visa-free transit policy, allowing travelers from 54 eligible countries to stay in the country for 240 hours (10 days).

Points to note when applying for a foreign residence permit

After entering China, foreigners who need to reside in China for non-diplomatic or official purposes can apply for the issuance, extension, replacement, or reissuance of residence permits through the exit-entry administration authorities.

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

Since the end of last year, China has implemented visa exemption policies for 38 countries to facilitate cross-border travel. Here are some frequently asked questions about visa-free travel to China.

Visa update: No more fingerprints for short stays

To streamline the visa application process, China will waive the requirement for fingerprint collection for all short-term visa applicants from Sept 2, 2024 to Dec 31, 2025.

Video: How to apply for an electronic port visa

China has begun issuing electronic port visas to eligible expats visiting or doing business in Shanghai's Lin-gang Special Area. In this video, we'll guide you through the e-visa application process from start to finish.

How to apply for a port e-visa

China has launched a port e-visa service in Shanghai for foreigners invited by enterprises at China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone Lingang Special Area, effective July 12, 2024.