Travel to China · Entry guide

Arrive with clarity.

China now offers several visa-free ways to visit. The right route depends on your passport, purpose, port and onward itinerary—so use this guide as a starting point, then confirm the latest official rules before you travel.

Policy check · 10 August 2026

Choose the right entry route

Visa-free entry

China currently grants 30-day visa-free entry to ordinary-passport holders from more than 40 countries for tourism, business, visits, exchanges and transit. Effective dates vary, and separate mutual visa-exemption agreements may also apply.

240-hour visa-free transit

The National Immigration Administration currently lists 55 eligible nationalities, 65 entry ports and permitted areas across 24 provincial-level regions. You must travel onward to a third country or region within 240 hours and hold a confirmed onward ticket.

24-hour transit or a regular visa

A 24-hour transit exemption is available at open ports for travellers of all nationalities who remain within the restricted port area. If your passport, purpose or route is not eligible, obtain the appropriate visa before departure.

Before you fly

Verify, then book

Check the rule that applies to your exact passport, travel purpose and date through the NIA, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate.

Keep the journey easy to explain

Carry your valid passport, onward or return booking, accommodation details and a simple itinerary. For 240-hour transit, confirm that both the arrival port and every place you plan to visit are within the permitted area.

At the border

Have the essentials ready

Immigration officers may ask to see your passport, confirmed onward travel, hotel address and the purpose of your visit. Complete any arrival, customs or health declarations required at the time and follow the instructions at your port of entry.

Entry is assessed on arrival

Visa-free eligibility does not guarantee admission. The border inspection authority makes the final entry decision based on your documents and itinerary.

Your first 24 hours

Hotel stay

Your hotel normally completes the required accommodation registration when you check in. Use the same passport you entered China with.

Private home or other accommodation

You or your host must register your accommodation with the local public security authority within 24 hours. Since 20 March 2026, online registration has been piloted in seven regions including Sichuan and Chongqing through the NIA 12367 service platform.

ChinaMaxxing note

Still unsure which route applies?

Call the National Immigration Administration service hotline at 12367 or contact the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence before departure.

Official references

National Immigration Administration · Visa-free transit National Immigration Administration · Accommodation registration China Government · Unilateral visa-free policy China Government · Mutual visa exemption agreements

Entry rules can change without notice. This guide is general travel information, not a visa decision or legal advice; always rely on the latest official guidance for your own passport and itinerary.