China Visa Update — 2 April 2026

visa • 2 April 2026

**Australian tourists enjoy a 30-day visa-free entry to China, allowing seamless access for tourism and exploration of its vibrant cities and landscapes.** This policy, confirmed as active in 2025 and extended into 2026 without noted changes, permits Australian passport holders to stay continuously from entry until 24:00 on the 30th calendar day, with no limits on entries or total stay duration.[1] It's an ideal option for Aussie travellers planning trips to hotspots like Beijing, Shanghai, or the Great Wall. **Additional transit perks enhance flexibility for 2026 journeys.** A 240-hour visa-free transit policy, upgraded from prior 72/144-hour options since December 17, 2024, applies at 60 ports across 24 provinces for citizens of 54 countries—including Australia—provided you hold confirmed onward tickets to a third country and meet port-specific rules.[1][2] Note that from February 17 to December 31, 2026, Canada and the UK gain similar 30-day visa-free access, reflecting China's ongoing welcome to global visitors.[2] Always complete the China Arrival Card online via the NIA website, WeChat, or Alipay for smooth entry.[2] **Practical tip: Download the NIA 12367 app ahead of your trip.** From April 15, 2026, electronic Border Management Area Permits replace paper versions for frontier zones like parts of Xinjiang or Yunnan, accessible via app, WeChat, or Alipay—streamlining adventures in remote areas.[3] These updates make China more accessible than ever for Australian travellers.

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