China Visa-Free Entry 2024: Countries & Rules Explained
China Visa-Free entry is expanding! Since July 2023, China has expanded its list of unilateral visa-free entry countries. Starting November 30th, 2024, the visa-free stay period will increase from 15 to 30 days. This article covers everything you need to know about visa-free entry to China, including eligible countries and important conditions. Travelers who don’t meet the visa exemption criteria must still obtain a visa before entering China.
🌟 If you plan to visit Chengdu during your visa-free stay, check out our guide on How to Find What You’re Looking for in Chengdu to make your trip easier and more enjoyable.
Unilateral Visa-Free Entry Countries
Ordinary passport holders from these countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for:
Business
Tourism
Family visits
Exchanges
Transit purposes
Countries eligible for unilateral visa-free entry:
Europe:
Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland.
Asia:
Brunei, South Korea, Japan.
Oceania:
Australia, New Zealand.
Notes for Unilateral Visa-Free Entry into China:
- The policy is currently on trial and is effective until December 31, 2025.
- The maximum stay allowed under visa-free entry is 30 days.
- The visa-free policy applies only to entry and exit ports in the Chinese mainland.
Reciprocal China Visa-Free Entry Countries
Certain countries enjoy a reciprocal visa-free entry policy with China. Travelers can stay up to 30 days per visit, with a maximum of 90 days within 180 days.
Eligible countries include:
Asia:
Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Maldives, Qatar, Singapore, Thailand, UAE.
Europe:
Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, San Marino, Serbia.
Americas:
Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Ecuador, Grenada, Suriname.
Oceania:
Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands.
Africa:
Mauritius, Seychelles.
Notes for Reciprocal Visa-Free Entry into China:
The reciprocal visa-free policy is permanent in principle but subject to updates.
It applies only at Chinese mainland entry and exit ports.
Summary
To sum up, the visa-free policies give travelers from many countries easier access to China, with longer stays allowed from late 2024. However, those who do not qualify must still apply for a visa in advance. Always check the latest updates before you travel.
🔗 For the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa policies and entry requirements, always check the official Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. This ensures you have the latest details before planning your trip to China. You can visit their site here: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Visa Information.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
I am now in China with a single-entry visa as a student for 150 days. I’m from the Netherlands. If I leave the country for 2 weeks and then re-enter, does the 90/180-days rule apply to me? Can I still re-enter?
Because I want to go to Thailand after my visa expires and then to china for 30 days, then leave to Hong Kong for a week and then go to China for another 30 days. Is that allowed?
Should be Ok yes.