Traveling to China can be an exciting adventure, but knowing the visa requirements for your nationality is important. This guide provides an overview of which countries can enter China visa-free and which need to obtain one. We also cover some special considerations for specific regions.

Which Countries Can Visit China Without a Visa?

Only some countries get to enjoy visa-free access to China for short stays. If you are a Singapore, Brunei, or Japanese citizen, you can visit China for up to 15 days without a visa. Similarly, residents of San Marino can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. This makes it convenient for travelers from these nations to enjoy short trips or business visits without a visa.

What Countries Require a Visa?

For most other travelers, a visa is required to enter China. This includes citizens from major countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, India, Germany, France, and Russia. Whether planning a tourist visit, a business trip or studying in China, you must apply for the appropriate visa.

Administrative Regions and Territories

Hong Kong and Macau residents can travel to mainland China for up to 90 days without a visa. However, travelers from Taiwan need a special permit to enter.

How to Apply for a Chinese Visa

1. Fill Out the Application Form: Start by completing the Chinese visa application form, available on the website of the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.
2. Prepare Your Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay and has blank visa pages.
3. Passport-Sized Photo: Provide a recent passport-sized photograph.
4. Gather Supporting Documents: Depending on the type of visa, you may need additional documents, such as an invitation letter for a business visa or a detailed travel itinerary, and proof of address.
5. Submit Your Application: Submit your completed application and all required documents to the Chinese embassy or consulate.

Need Help? The China Visa Department Can Help!

You don’t need to visit the embassy or consulate in person to submit your visa application. Third-party services, like the China Visa Department, can handle it for you, which is useful if you live far from the consulate. The China Visa Department is registered to submit your documents to the Chinese embassy/consulate. We offer online and in-person appointments, full application guidance, and expedited options.

Even though we’ve covered which countries have visa-free access to China and which do not, always do your research. We recommend checking the latest information from official sources like travel.state.gov or Chinese embassies, as visa policies can change.