Visa Policies · China
China Visa-Free 2026: The Official 50-Country List, Not 77
Discover the official 50 countries eligible for visa-free entry to China in 2026. Learn the differences between 30-day and 240-hour transit policies.
· 5 min read
Official 50 Countries with Visa-Free Entry to China
As of February 17, 2026, citizens from 50 countries can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days. This list includes 35 European countries, 2 Oceania countries (Australia and New Zealand), 7 Asian countries (Brunei, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain), and 6 American countries (Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, and Canada). For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official list from the National Immigration Administration.
The 77-country figure often seen online is misleading, as it includes countries with mutual visa exemption agreements and regional policies. Always refer to the official sources to avoid confusion.
Understanding the 30-Day Single-Entry Visa-Free Policy
Citizens from the 50 listed countries can enter China for tourism, business, or visiting purposes for up to 30 days without a visa. The 30-day period starts from the day after your arrival. For example, if you arrive on January 1st, your 30-day stay begins on January 2nd and ends on February 1st.
To ensure compliance, make sure to complete the online entry card at least three days before your arrival. This process is free and should only be done through official channels. Be wary of fraudulent websites; the National Immigration Administration warns about fake sites that charge fees.
240-Hour Transit Visa-Free Policy for 55 Countries
In addition to the 30-day single-entry policy, citizens from 55 countries, including the United States, Russia, and the UK, can enjoy a 240-hour (10-day) transit visa-free stay. This policy applies to travelers with valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets, allowing them to enter and stay in specific regions for up to 10 days. For more details, see the official announcement.
The 240-hour transit visa-free policy is available at 65 designated ports of entry across 24 provinces. Ensure your itinerary and travel documents are in order, and verify the latest information on the State Council's website.
Regional Visa-Free Entry for 59 Countries in Hainan
From February 13, 2025, citizens from 59 countries, including Russia, the UK, and France, can enter Hainan Province without a visa for up to 30 days. This policy is specifically for tourism, business, and short-term visits, excluding work and study. Travelers must stay within Hainan and cannot leave the province during their stay. For more information, see the official policy.
Ensure your travel plans align with these restrictions and verify the latest updates on the National Immigration Administration's website.
Setting Up Essential Apps Before Your Trip
Before traveling to China, set up essential apps to make your trip smoother:
- Download Amap Global from the App Store for navigation. It has an English interface and does not require a Chinese phone number.
- Set up Alipay from Alipay's official website. In the app, go to Me > Bank Cards, add your Visa, Mastercard, Amex, or JCB, and upload your passport for verification. Verification usually takes minutes but can take up to 72 hours.
- Register WeChat from WeChat's official website. Follow the step-by-step guide for foreigners to set up and verify your account.
Staying Safe and Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Avoid common pitfalls by following these steps:
- Always use official channels for any immigration-related processes, such as the online entry card. Do not trust third-party websites or services that charge fees.
- Verify your hotel's location using Amap Global. Search for the exact address in Chinese characters, as English searches may return inaccurate results.
- Check the Civil Aviation Administration of China's regulations on power banks. Only those with clear 3C certification and not on recall lists are allowed on domestic flights.
What it looks like
Frequently asked
Which countries are included in the 50-country visa-free list?
The list includes 35 European countries, 2 Oceania countries (Australia and New Zealand), 7 Asian countries (Brunei, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain), and 6 American countries (Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, and Canada).
How long can I stay in China under the 30-day visa-free policy?
You can stay for up to 30 days, starting from the day after your arrival. For example, if you arrive on January 1st, your 30-day stay begins on January 2nd and ends on February 1st.
What is the 240-hour transit visa-free policy?
Citizens from 55 countries, including the US, Russia, and the UK, can stay in specific regions for up to 10 days without a visa. This policy requires valid travel documents and confirmed onward tickets.
Can I enter Hainan without a visa?
Yes, citizens from 59 countries, including Russia, the UK, and France, can enter Hainan for up to 30 days without a visa, but they must stay within the province.
What apps should I set up before traveling to China?
Download Amap Global for navigation, set up Alipay for payments, and register WeChat for communication. Use the official websites and guides for setup.
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About this guide
Written and maintained by the China Unboxed team from Shenzhen. We keep guides current and general on purpose — always verify prices and policies against official sources before booking.
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