China

China visa-free entry in 2026

China's unilateral visa-free policy now covers 50 countries for stays of up to 30 days and runs until 31 December 2026.

What the policy allows

Citizens of the listed countries can enter China with an ordinary passport for tourism, business, family visits, exchange or transit and stay up to 30 days. No application is needed; carry a return or onward ticket.

Who is on the list

The list grew through 2025 and 2026. The United Kingdom and Canada were added on 17 February 2026, bringing the total to 50 countries, including most EU member states, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Brazil, Argentina and several Gulf states. The United States is not included.

Until when

The policy is in force until 31 December 2026. Beijing has extended it each year so far, and a decision on 2027 is expected before year-end.

Separately, a 240-hour visa-free transit scheme applies to travellers from 55 countries passing through China to a third country. Different rules, different list.

Sources

Last reviewed: 21 October 2026. Rules change; confirm with the official source before you travel.