Short answer
Vietnamese passport holders can enter mainland China without a visa for stays up to 30 days under China's unilateral visa-free policy, which runs until 31 December 2026. The stay is counted from midnight the day after arrival and covers tourism, business, family visits, exchange or transit. For stays beyond 30 days, or for work, study, or journalism, a regular visa from a Chinese embassy or consulate in Vietnam is still required.
Visa-free entry for Vietnamese citizens (until 31 Dec 2026)
Vietnam is on China's 50-country unilateral visa-free list. The current round runs until 31 December 2026 for 48 of those countries.
No invitation letter or embassy visit is needed for tourism, business, visiting relatives, cultural or academic exchange, and transit within the 30-day limit.
Counting the 30 days
- Days are counted from midnight following the day of entry.
- A stay of exactly 30 days ends at midnight on the 31st day after arrival.
When you still need a visa
Apply at the Chinese Embassy in Hanoi or the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang.
A regular visa is required for stays beyond 30 days and for purposes outside the visa-free list.
- Tourist (L): itinerary and accommodation details.
- Business (M): invitation from a Chinese entity.
- Transit (G): onward ticket within the permitted window.
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Official sources
Policies and booking channels change — check the official channel before you rely on it.