Everything you need to know about visiting China in 2026
Last updated: June 2026
Live status of the 30-day visa-free policy — countdown to 31 Dec 2026, per-country expiry dates, and flagged conflicts between official sources
Visa-free entry for citizens of 57 countries at major ports
How to apply for a standard tourist visa to China
Declaration rules, prohibited items, and border procedures
Answers to the most common visa and entry questions
Sightseeing, visiting friends, and short leisure trips
Commercial activities, trade fairs, and meetings
Full-time study at Chinese universities and schools
Employment with a registered employer in China
Short stopovers and connecting flights through China
Long-term residency for eligible foreign nationals
Additional entry ports added; eligible travelers can now stay up to 10 days in permitted regions without a visa.
Citizens of select European and Asian countries continue to enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 days for tourism and business.
China Visa Application Service Centers now accept digital photo uploads and offer appointment scheduling in more cities worldwide.
Who needs China's L tourist visa in 2026, COVA steps, US consulate fees through Dec 2026, documents, processing times, transit alternatives, and fixes for common errors.
Read MoreWho qualifies for China's 30-day unilateral visa-free entry in 2026, what to bring, how border officers check your trip, and backup routes if you are not on the list.
Read MoreComplete 2026 guide to China's 240-hour (10-day) transit visa-free policy: 57 eligible countries, 65 entry ports, 24 provinces, requirements, and step-by-step arrival procedures.
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