The Latest Visa Policy for Coming to China

In a significant move to bolster international exchanges and promote tourism, China has expanded its visa policy, introducing unilateral visa waivers for certain countries. This initiative reflects China’s commitment to enhancing diplomatic relations and facilitating the movement of people across borders. According to recent statistics, there were 424 million entries and exits in China in 2023, a staggering 266.5% increase year-on-year, with foreign entries surging by 693.1%.

Overview of Visa-Free Entry Regulations

China has implemented various visa-free rules for international visitors, which vary depending on nationality, mode of transportation, and ports of entry. These rules aim to make travel to China easier and more accessible for foreigners.

1. 30 Days Visa-Free Entry

Singapore and Thailand

As of February 9, 2023, China and Singapore officially agreed to allow citizens of both countries to enjoy visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days. This agreement aims to foster closer ties between the nations and facilitates tourism, family visits, and business activities.

In addition, starting March 2024, Thailand will also enjoy a permanent visa-free policy for its citizens visiting China, further enhancing diplomatic relations and stimulating tourism between the two nations. For more details, click here.

2. 15 Days Visa-Free Entry

European Countries and Malaysia

China will grant 15 days of visa-free travel for holders of ordinary passports from several countries, including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia, from December 1, 2023, to November 30, 2024. This visa waiver applies to visitors traveling for business, tourism, family visits, or transit.

Moreover, from March 14 to November 30, 2024, this policy will expand to six additional European countries: Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg. Ordinary passport holders from these countries can enter China visa-free under the same conditions as previously mentioned. For further information, click here.

3. 72-Hour and 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit

Eligible Countries

China allows visa-free transit for citizens of 54 countries for 72 or 144 hours, applicable in major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guilin, and Chengdu. To qualify, travelers must hold a ticket for onward travel to a third country within the specified transit period.

List of Eligible Countries

The following countries can benefit from the transit policy:

European Countries (39): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, and Belarus.
American Countries (6): United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Chile.
Oceania Countries (2): Australia and New Zealand.
Asian Countries (6): South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.

4. Visiting China for Urgent Reasons? Consider a Port Visa

What Is a Port Visa?

A port visa, also known as a visa on arrival (VOA), allows foreigners to enter China without obtaining a visa from a Chinese embassy prior to departure. Once approved, the port visa permits an entry period of up to 5 days for individuals and 15 days for groups, with a maximum stay of 30 days.

Eligibility for Port Visa

Most passport holders can apply for a port visa, with some exceptions including individuals from Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Cameroon, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Israel, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Sudan, Turkey, Uganda, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen, and certain Southeast Asian countries.

The port visa is particularly useful for foreigners who receive short-notice invitations to attend trade fairs or other events in China. For more information on the application process for a port visa, click here.

Important Considerations

Visa policies are subject to change, and it is essential for travelers to stay informed about the latest updates. Travelers should ensure their ordinary passport is valid for more than six months to qualify for visa exemptions. For specific inquiries regarding visa applications, it is advisable to consult local embassies or official government websites.

Conclusion

China’s evolving visa policy reflects its dedication to fostering international exchange and tourism. With expanded visa waivers and improved access for travelers, China continues to solidify its position as a global travel destination.

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