China has announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for citizens of selected countries until the end of 2026, which allows travelers to enter China for short stays without a visa. The decision reflects Beijing’s efforts to boost tourism, business exchanges, and people-to-people connections in the post-pandemic era. The list of countries with visa-free access was also expanded.
China visa-free policy 2026
Under the extended policy, citizens of several European and Asian countries can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days per visit. The visa-free entry is valid for tourism, business, family visits, cultural exchange, and transit purposes.
According to the official announcement by the Chinese government, the visa-free scheme is effective until December 31, 2026. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the initiative aims to make travel “more convenient for foreign nationals and promote mutual understanding and cooperation.”
Which countries qualify for visa-free entry to China?
The list of visa-exempt countries currently includes:
- Europe
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Switzerland
- Asia
- Bahrain
- Japan
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- South Korea
- Oceania
- Australia
- New Zealand
- South America
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Chile
- Peru
- Uruguay
Business trips to China 2026
For entrepreneurs, importers, and international buyers, this extension simplifies business travel to China significantly. If you want to participate in a trade fair in China, you don’t need to apply for a business visa. The same goes for visiting your Chinese supplier and going on other business trips.
How to use the visa-free entry to China
To enter China under the visa-free scheme, travelers must meet specific conditions:
- Hold a valid ordinary passport (minimum six months’ validity).
- Have a clear travel purpose — tourism, business, family visit, exchange, or transit.
- Stay for no longer than 30 consecutive days per entry.
- Present proof of onward or return travel and accommodation details if requested.
- Register with local authorities (usually through your hotel or police station) within 24 hours of arrival.
Visa-free travel to China – best tips
- Be up to date with the newest policies, as visa-free eligibility may change or expand.
- Book accommodation in advance and choose those that accept foreign guests.
- Bring printed copies of your passport and travel insurance.
- Download useful Chinese apps such as WeChat, Alipay, Didi, and Trip.com for easier navigation, payments, and bookings.
- Even though no visa is required, customs and immigration procedures remain the same — be ready for standard entry screening upon arrival.