China Handbookby Mobi & Toro

Visa-free & transit rules: where to check

Entry rules change often. Here's where to find the current, official answer for your passport.

Last checked · reviewed monthly

China offers several ways to visit without a visa — for example unilateral visa-free entry for some countries and visa-free transit for travellers flying on to a third country. Which one applies depends on your passport, your route and how long you stay, and the lists change often.

That's why this handbook doesn't print the number of days or the list of countries. Instead, check these three places:

  1. National Immigration Administration (NIA) — the official English website announces every change to visa-free and transit policies. Look under the news and policy announcements.
  2. The Chinese embassy or consulate in your country — its website states which rules apply to your nationality and how to apply for a visa if you need one.
  3. Your airline — for transit, the airline must accept your onward ticket. Ask them before you book.

What to check for your trip

  • Does my passport qualify for visa-free entry or visa-free transit?
  • For transit: is my onward flight to a third country or region (not back where I came from)?
  • Which cities or airports can I enter through, and can I travel outside that area?
  • Is my passport valid for long enough, with blank pages?
  • Is my purpose allowed? (Work, study and journalism normally need a proper visa.)

Still not sure?

Call the China Immigration Service Hotline, 12367 — it answers in Chinese and English, 24 hours a day. From outside mainland China, dial +86 12367.

Official sources