China Visa Update — 14 June 2026
visa • 14 June 2026
Australia remains included in China’s **visa waiver program** until **31 December 2026**, which is the most important current update for Australian tourists planning short trips.[8] According to Smartraveller, travellers still need to complete an **electronic arrival card** before entry or at the point of entry.[8] For tourists from other markets, the clearest 2026 policy update in the supplied results is China’s **expanded visa-free entry for certain international buyers**, allowing stays of up to **30 days** through **31 December 2026**.[2] That said, a general tourism visa remains the standard option for visitors who do not qualify for visa-free entry, and one commercial visa service notes that tourist visas are typically issued as **single-entry or double-entry** in many cases.[1] For Australian travellers, the practical takeaway is simple: if your trip fits the waiver conditions, you may not need to apply for a tourist visa at all, but you should still check the stay length and entry requirements before departure.[8] If you are travelling beyond the waiver rules or for a longer stay, you should apply through the normal Chinese visa process and allow time for documentation and processing.[1]