On May 21, the Consular Department of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a notice on the unilateral visa-free policy for nationals of 43 countries.
Eligible Countries & Effective Dates
Holders of ordinary passports from the following countries may enter China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting relatives/friends, exchanges, or transit for up to 30 days:
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Brunei, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Japan
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Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay (effective June 1, 2025)
Entry Requirements & Conditions
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No prior declaration to Chinese embassies/consulates is required.
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Eligible travelers must present documents (e.g., invitation letters, flight tickets, hotel reservations) matching their stated purpose (business, tourism, etc.).
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Not applicable for work, study, journalism, or similar activities.
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Passport validity: Must cover the intended stay period.
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Excluded travelers: Those with non-ordinary passports (e.g., temporary/emergency travel documents).
Entry & Stay Rules
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Duration: 30 calendar days, starting the day after entry.
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Ports of entry: All air, land, and sea ports open to foreigners (unless restricted by laws or bilateral agreements).
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Private transport: Must comply with China’s entry/exit regulations for vehicles/vessels.
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Extensions:
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Stays beyond 30 days require a visa obtained in advance from a Chinese embassy/consulate.
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If an extension is needed after visa-free entry, applicants must apply with China’s Exit-Entry Administration.
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Multiple Entries & Compliance
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No current limit on entries or cumulative stay days.
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Travelers must not engage in activities inconsistent with their declared purpose.