China’s visa free policy is continuously expanding, building a convenient entry bridge for global visitors. Since February 2026, the policy has undergone another key update, adding visa free eligibility for both countries and further optimizing the scope of visa free transit. For business people, tourists, or transit travelers planning to come to China, understanding this policy system can significantly reduce travel preparation costs and avoid entry barriers.
1. The Core Classification and Applicable Boundaries of China’s Visa Free Policy
China’s visa free policy is not a single framework, but consists of three major sections: mutual visa free, unilateral visa free, and transit visa free, which constitute China’s consular services. There are significant differences in the applicable population, duration of stay, and scope of activities among different sectors.
The key is that all visa free policies have core common requirements. They are as follows:
- Holding a valid ordinary passport is a basic requirement.
- The visa free stay period starts from the day after entry and cannot be extended for Chinese consular services.
- The scope of activities is limited to business, tourism, family visits, exchanges, or transit, and no illegal activities such as employment or settlement are allowed.
2. Visa Free Countries: Free Entry Options in Both Directions
Mutual visa exemption is an agreement reached equally between China and 15 countries. Currently, China has implemented visa exemption for ordinary passports. The core advantage of such policies is that they have no enforcement period (with a few exceptions) and simpler entry rules.
Common mutual exemption countries include Brunei, San Marino, Serbia, etc. Taking Brunei as an example, its visa free policy has no time limit, and holders of ordinary passports can stay for no more than 30 days. Russia’s mutual exemption policy has a deadline and will be implemented until September 14, 2026.
Applying for mutual exemption from entry does not require additional documents, only a passport, return or extension ticket, and hotel reservation are needed. The border inspection authorities mainly verify the purpose of entry and the plan of stay. You can refer to “Overview of China’s Visa Exemption Policies” section, access the “Mutual Visa Exemption” section to obtain the complete list of Chinese consular services.
3. Unilateral Visa Free Countries: Key Points for New Additions and Extensions
Unilateral visa exemption is a convenience policy independently introduced by China. As of February 2026, it has been applied to 35 countries and will be implemented as a whole until December 31, 2026. The policy updates for 2026 will focus on two main directions: “new additions” and “extensions”.
Starting from February 17, 2026, Canada and the United Kingdom . will officially be included in the scope of unilateral visa free Chinese consular services. Citizens of both countries holding ordinary passports can stay in China visa free for up to 30 days, covering various short-term activities such as business and tourism. Previously, visa free policies in countries such as France, Germany, and Italy have been extended until the end of 2026 on the Chinese government website.
Some people believe that the application threshold for unilateral visa exemption is lower, but in reality, the material requirements still need to be met. Upon entry, valid passport, return/extension ticket, and hotel reservation proof must be presented. If engaged in business activities, it is recommended to bring an invitation letter as a backup. “Overview of China’s Visa Exemption Policies” section on “Unilateral Visa Free Countries” provides a complete list of applicable Chinese consular services and detailed regulations.
4. 240 Hour Transit Visa Free: Latest Applicable Rules
Transit visa free is a key convenience for connecting international travel, among which 240-hour transit visa free. free policy, and its scope of application continues to expand after optimization by the National Immigration Bureau.
Starting from January 2026, the number of countries eligible for this policy will increase to 55, , covering major economies in Europe, America, and Asia. Applicable ports reach 60, , distributed in 24 provinces, including hubs such as Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong Airport, as well as regional ports such as Harbin and Kunming.
There are three core conditions for applying for a 240 hour transit visa free:
- Departing from the applicable country and traveling to a third country (region);
- Holding a connecting flight ticket with a confirmed date and seat within 240 hours;
- Filling out a temporary entry card and undergoing border inspection verification.
The scope of stay is within the administrative area of the city where the port is located, and some areas allow cross city activities.
The core advantage of this policy is that the duration of stay is sufficient, and the 10 day window period is sufficient for transit passengers to experience the local culture. The key precautions for target audience applications are: do not exceed the stay range and duration, otherwise you will face fines or entry restrictions. You can refer to “Complete Guide to Visa Free Transit in China” provides additional guidance on the 240hour policy for Chinese consular services.
5. Core Regulations and Avoidance Reminders for Visa Free Stay in China
The convenience of visa free entry should be based on compliance with the rules of stay. “Understanding China’s Visa Free Stay Regulations” provide a detailed interpretation of the relevant requirements and serve as an important reference for Chinese consular services.
- The duration of stay cannot be exceeded. The 30 day visa free period for mutual exemption and unilateral exemption, as well as the 240 hour visa free period for transit, are all mandatory regulations and cannot be applied for to extend Chinese consular services.
- The scope of activities must comply with regulations. Under visa free status, individuals are not allowed to engage in paid work, news interviews, or other activities that require special permits.
Common pitfalls include:
- Mistakenly including Hong Kong and Macau in the scope of mainland visa exemption. To travel to Hong Kong and Macau, a separate travel document is required, and the mainland visa free policy does not apply to this.
- The flight ticket information is incomplete. When transiting without a visa, the itinerary of the connecting flight ticket must clearly display the subsequent itinerary, otherwise entry may be denied.
6. Practical Preparation List for China’s Visa Free Entry
To ensure a smooth visa free entry, it is recommended to prepare the following documents according to the checklist to ensure that everything is foolproof.
- Certificate type: A regular passport with a validity period of no less than 6 months, ensuring that the photo page has sufficient blank space.
- Itinerary category: Return or extension flight itinerary, hotel reservation proof (must match the length of stay).
- Auxiliary category: Invitation letter is required for business activities; Proof of family relationship is required for visiting relatives; Travel advice: Bring a travel itinerary plan.
In addition, it is recommended to save the policy link of the Chinese Consular Service Network on the mobile phone in advance for on-site verification. When entering the country, truthfully answer the inquiries of border inspection personnel and clearly explain the purpose of entry and the plan of stay.
References
- Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China (2026). Notice on the implementation of visa free policies in Canada and the United Kingdom. China Consular Service Network. Taken from https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/gyls/lsgz/fwxx/202602/t20260215_11860470.shtml
- Government website of the People’s Republic of China (2025). China has decided to extend its visa free policy for countries such as France and Sweden. Taken from https://www.gov.cn/yaowen/liebiao/202511/content_7046960.htm
- National Immigration Administration (2026). Press conference on relaxing and optimizing the visa free transit policy. Taken from https://www.nia.gov.cn/n741435/n1194535/n1689182/index.html
