30-Day Visa Exemption for 48 Countries
Citizens from 48 countries holding ordinary passports can enter China visa-free for business, tourism, family visits, exchange visits, or transit purposes for up to 30 days. The stay period is calculated from 00:00 on the day following entry.
Policy Overview
China implements a unilateral visa exemption policy for citizens of the following 48 countries. Travelers holding ordinary passports from these countries may enter China without a visa for the following purposes:
- Business activities
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Visiting family and friends
- Exchange visits
- Transit through China
List of 48 Eligible Countries
Europe (34 countries)
Oceania (2 countries)
Asia (7 countries)
South America (5 countries)
Entry Requirements
What You Need
- Valid ordinary passport with at least 6 months validity
- Confirmed onward/return ticket (if applicable)
- Proof of accommodation in China
- Sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel insurance (recommended)
How Stay Duration is Calculated
Calculation Method:
The 30-day stay period begins at 00:00 (midnight) on the day following your entry.
Example: If you enter China on January 1st at 3:00 PM, your 30-day period starts at 00:00 on January 2nd and ends at 23:59 on January 31st.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of passport is eligible?
A: Only ordinary passports are eligible for this visa exemption. Diplomatic, official, or service passports may have different requirements.
Q: Can I extend my stay beyond 30 days?
A: Extensions are generally not available under this policy. If you need to stay longer, you should apply for an appropriate visa before traveling or exit and re-enter (subject to immigration approval).
Q: Can I work in China under this policy?
A: No. This visa exemption does not permit employment. If you need to work in China, you must obtain a work visa (Z visa) before arrival.
Q: Can I study in China visa-free?
A: No. If you plan to study in China, you must apply for a student visa (X visa) before arrival.
Q: Can I enter China multiple times under this policy?
A: Yes, you can enter multiple times as long as each stay does not exceed 30 days. However, frequent entries may raise questions from immigration officers.
Q: Can I travel anywhere in China?
A: Yes, you can travel throughout mainland China. However, separate entry permits are required for Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
Q: What if I miss my departure date?
A: Overstaying your visa-free period is a serious violation. You may face fines, detention, or future entry bans. Contact the local Public Security Bureau Exit-Entry Administration immediately if you have issues.
Important Reminders
- Always carry your passport with you during your stay in China
- Register at your accommodation within 24 hours of arrival (hotels do this automatically)
- Keep track of your departure date to avoid overstaying
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before your trip
- Keep digital and physical copies of important documents
- Save emergency contact numbers including your embassy
- Consider downloading translation apps as English is not widely spoken
- Bring sufficient funds or have access to international payment methods
Related Visa Policies
- 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit: For travelers transiting through China to a third country (55 eligible countries, up to 10 days)
- Hainan Visa-Free Policy: 30-day visa-free access to Hainan Province for 59 countries
- Port Visa (VOA): Available at certain ports for emergency or humanitarian reasons
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