Entry
Do I need a visa for China in 2026?
Short answer
It depends on the passport. Holders of 50 countries enter visa-free for up to 30 days under China's unilateral policy, extended to 31 December 2026. Around 77 nationalities have visa-free access through mutual agreements. If neither applies, you need a visa — unless your routing qualifies for the 240-hour transit exemption.
The three routes in
- Unilateral visa-free: 50 countries, up to 30 days, currently to 31 December 2026
- Mutual visa-free agreements: roughly 77 nationalities in total have visa-free access
- 240-hour transit: 57 nationalities, up to 10 days, requires an onward ticket to a third country or region
How to check your own passport
The only authoritative list is the National Immigration Administration at en.nia.gov.cn. Policies change quickly and were extended twice in recent years, so check the current list before booking rather than relying on a forum post.
What does not change
- Your passport needs at least six months' validity
- Visa-free does not permit work or long-term study
- Hotel check-in registers you automatically; staying with friends requires police registration within 24 hours
Related questions
Do I need a return ticket for visa-free entry?
For the 30-day unilateral policy, airlines usually want proof of onward travel. For the 240-hour transit exemption it is strictly required — and it must be to a third country or region, not back to where you flew in from.
Can I extend a visa-free stay?
Not as a tourist. You would exit and re-enter, or apply for a visa at an exit-entry administration office before the stay expires.
Is visa-free entry guaranteed at the border?
No. Entry is always at the discretion of the immigration officer. Have your accommodation address and onward travel ready to show.
Related guides
- China visa-free entry: the full rules
- How the 240-hour transit exemption works
- What hotel check-in needs in China
Verified 2026-09-11. Policies and booking channels change — check the official channel before you rely on it.
Get ChinaPass — these answers offline, with the phrase cards that work at the counter when your data does not.