China Visa Update — 30 April 2026

visa • 30 April 2026

**China's visa-free policies for tourists remain stable and extended through at least the end of 2026, offering Australian travellers seamless access without a visa for short stays.** Ordinary passport holders from 50 countries enjoy unilateral 30-day visa-free entry, while 55 countries benefit from 240-hour transit visa-free arrangements, making it easier to explore top destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and the Great Wall[1][2][3]. This policy certainty has fuelled a tourism boom, with inbound hotel bookings in major cities doubling year-on-year and foreign visitor numbers up nearly 30 percent in Q1 2026. According to China Daily, Beijing's "GO BEIJING" platform provides comprehensive online services for inbound travellers, from itineraries to bookings, enhancing the experience during peak seasons like the current May Day holiday[2]. Global Times reports highlight how these measures allow visitors to immerse in China's blend of ancient sites and modern attractions with greater confidence[3]. Australian passport holders should confirm eligibility via official channels, as longer stays or multiple entries may still require a visa—VisaHQ notes streamlined options for such cases. With rail journeys projected at 158 million and flights at 11 million over the eight-day Labour Day period, now is an ideal time to book and discover China's vibrant offerings[1].

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