Which countries get China visa-free entry in 2026?
China's unilateral visa-free policy covers 40+ countries (30 days), including France, Germany, UK, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and Argentina. US and Canadian passports are NOT included — they need a visa or qualify for 240-hour transit. Rules expand regularly; verify before booking.
Quick answer
China's unilateral visa-free policy covers 40+ countries (30 days), including France, Germany, UK, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and Argentina. US and Canadian passports are NOT included — they need a visa or qualify for 240-hour transit. Rules expand regularly; verify before booking.
Detailed answer
Unilateral Visa-Free (30 Days)
As of 2026, China grants 30-day visa-free entry to passport holders from 40+ countries under the unilateral policy.
European countries include: France, Germany, UK, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Portugal, Greece, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Cyprus, Monaco, Andorra, San Marino, Liechtenstein.
Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia.
Americas: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Panama, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico (transit only).
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea.
IMPORTANT: US and Canadian passports are NOT on the unilateral visa-free list. Many travel blogs incorrectly state otherwise.
240-Hour Transit Visa-Free
Citizens of 57 countries can enter China visa-free for up to 240 hours (10 days) when transiting to a third country.
Eligible countries include: all EU member states, US, Canada, UK, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Russia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, and more.
Must enter and exit through designated ports (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Kunming, etc.).
Must have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country within 240 hours.
Stay limited to approved regions — check the latest list of allowed cities/provinces.
Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free
Hainan province offers a separate 30-day visa-free policy for 61 countries, including US and Canada.
Must enter directly through Hainan ports (Haikou, Sanya) and stay within Hainan province.
No third-country transit requirement — this is a standalone visa-free entry.
Ideal for beach holidays and tropical travel without a Chinese visa.
What to Prepare at the Border
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date.
Proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to a third country).
Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter.
Enough funds for your stay (not always checked but recommended).
Fill out the arrival/disembarkation card if required (many airports now use electronic forms).
Queue at the foreign passport lane — visa-free travelers use the same lanes as visa holders.