China · Tourist Visa
Tourist and visitor visa requirements, visa-free entry, duration, and application steps.
AI-drafted, editorially reviewed. Confirm specifics with the official authority.
Tourism in China normally uses the L (tourist) visa, applied for before travel through a Chinese visa application service centre. China has also expanded visa-free options — unilateral visa-free entry for a growing list of nationalities (up to 30 days as of 2026) and visa-free transit at designated ports. Visa-free entry covers tourism and business only, never work; confirm current eligibility with the National Immigration Administration.
Tourism in China normally uses the L (tourist) visa, applied for before travel through a Chinese visa application service centre. China has also expanded visa-free options: unilateral visa-free entry for nationals of a growing list of countries (up to 30 days as of 2026) and visa-free transit for many travellers. Visa-free entry is for tourism/business only — not work. Confirm current eligibility with the National Immigration Administration.
- The L (tourist) visa is the standard route; apply before travel via a Chinese visa application service centre.
- Unilateral visa-free entry now applies to nationals of a growing list of countries (up to 30 days as of 2026).
- Visa-free transit is available for many travellers via designated ports — check the current rules.
- Visa-free entry is for tourism/business only and does not permit work.
- 1
Check whether a visa-free option applies
Policies have changed repeatedly. Check the National Immigration Administration for the current unilateral visa-free list and the transit rules before assuming you need a visa — or that you don't.
- 2
Apply for the L visa if needed
Apply before travel through a Chinese visa application service centre or the embassy/consulate for your area. Processing is not instant, so allow time.
- 3
Prepare itinerary and accommodation proof
Tourist applications usually ask for flight bookings and hotel reservations or an invitation covering the stay.
- 4
Register your accommodation after arrival
Foreign visitors must be registered at their place of stay. Hotels normally do this automatically; if you stay in a private home, registration is done at the local police station.
- 5
Stay within the permitted purpose and period
Visa-free and tourist entry cover tourism and business visits only, not employment. Note your permitted stay on entry and leave before it ends.
- Current visa-free eligibility checked with the NIA
- L visa applied for in advance if required
- Flights and accommodation booked and documented
- Accommodation registration understood (hotel or police station)
- Permitted stay period noted on entry
- Passport valid for the whole intended stay
- No work planned on a tourist or visa-free entry
- National Immigration Administration
Official entry, visa-free and transit-visa information.
Frequently asked questions
Can I enter China without a visa?
Possibly — China operates unilateral visa-free entry for a growing list of nationalities (up to 30 days as of 2026) plus visa-free transit at designated ports. The lists and durations have changed repeatedly, so verify your current eligibility with the National Immigration Administration rather than relying on older guides.
Do I have to register where I am staying?
Yes. Foreign visitors must be registered at their place of stay. Hotels handle this as part of check-in; if you stay in a private residence, you register at the local police station shortly after arrival.
Can I work or freelance on a tourist entry?
No. Tourist and visa-free entry cover tourism and business visits only. Working in China requires the appropriate work authorisation and residence permit.
Government portals
- China Government Portal — State Council official portal — policy releases, public services, and government documents
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs — China's foreign policy and consular services — passport, visa, and consular protection info
- National Immigration Administration — Visas, permanent residency, and border control for foreigners entering China
- State Taxation Administration — Personal income tax filing, business tax registration, and VAT invoice verification