Thinking about visiting China without a visa? You’re in luck! In 2025, China has expanded its 30-day visa-free entry policy to even more countries, making it easier than ever to explore the wonders of China—including the Great Wall, pandas, and beyond—without the paperwork.
This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about China’s visa-free entry policy for foreign travelers. Whether you’re coming for tourism, business, visiting family or friends, or just passing through, here’s everything you need to know before booking your flight.
✅ What Is China’s 30-Day Visa-Free Entry Policy?
Citizens from 43 countries can now enter China without a visa for up to 30 calendar days, as long as the purpose of travel is for:
- Tourism
- Business
- Visiting family or friends
- Exchange
- Transit
No prior declaration or application is required at Chinese embassies or consulates.
🌍 Which Countries Are Included in the 30-Day Visa Waiver?
As of June 1, 2025, the policy applies to passport holders from these countries:
Europe
France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia
Asia-Pacific
Brunei, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand
Latin America
Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay
✈️ Do You Need to Declare Anything in Advance?
No. Travelers from these countries do not need to register or apply in advance with any Chinese embassy or consulate. Just bring your passport and travel documents, and you’re good to go.
📋 What Documents Should You Carry?
While a visa is not required, border officials may ask to verify your reason for travel. To ensure smooth entry, we recommend you carry:
- A valid passport (ordinary passport only)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, invitation letter, etc.)
- Round-trip or onward flight ticket
🔒 Note: Visa-free entry does not apply to those entering China for work, study, journalism, or similar purposes.
🧒 What About Children?
Visa waiver rules for minors are the same as for adults. No extra steps needed.
📅 How Is the 30-Day Stay Counted?
The visa-free 30-day period begins the day after you arrive in China and includes weekends and holidays.
🚢 Which Ports of Entry Are Allowed?
The visa waiver applies to all open air, sea, and land ports of entry into China. You can enter:
- By plane
- By cruise or ferry
- Overland (by car or train)
If you’re using private transport, make sure your vehicle follows China’s relevant customs and entry/exit regulations.
👥 Can Tour Groups Use the Visa Waiver?
Yes! Both individual travelers and tour groups from eligible countries can enjoy 30-day visa-free stays.
🔁 Can I Re-Enter China Without a Visa?
Yes. The current policy allows multiple entries without restrictions on total visits or combined days. However, each stay must be within the 30-day limit and match your stated purpose (tourism, business, etc.).
🕓 Need to Stay Longer Than 30 Days?
If you plan to stay in China for more than 30 days, you must:
- Apply for a visa in advance before entering China, or
- If you’re already in China and an extension is necessary, apply for a stay permit at a local Public Security Bureau with valid reasons.
🚫 What Documents Don’t Qualify?
The visa-free policy only applies to holders of a valid ordinary passport. It does not apply to:
- Temporary or emergency travel documents
- Refugee travel documents
- Diplomatic or official passports (unless specifically stated in bilateral agreements)
🌟 Final Tips from Big Panda Tours
- Arrive with printed hotel confirmations, flight details, and any invitation letters if visiting friends or for business
- Don’t overstay—30 days means 30 calendar days, counted from the day after arrival
- If you plan to re-enter, make sure each entry is still within the purpose of your original travel
✈️ Want to Visit China Without a Visa?
Big Panda Tours offers expert-led group and private tours to Beijing, Shanghai and beyond—all designed with visa-free travelers in mind.👉 Browse our China itineraries now and start planning your trip of a lifetime—no visa required!
