China Visa Update — 1 July 2026

visa • 1 July 2026

As of July 2026, tourists from **46 eligible countries** (including **Australia**, the **UK**, **US**, **France**, **Germany**, and **Japan**) can visit China **visa-free for up to 30 days** for tourism purposes, with this policy valid until **31 December 2026**[1][2]. Additionally, citizens from **55 countries** (including Australia and the UK) can utilise the **240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy** when passing through China to a third country or region, which now covers **65 open ports** across **24 provinces**[1][5]. For **Australian travellers** specifically, the 30-day visa-free entry allows direct exploration of major destinations like **Beijing**, **Shanghai**, and **Guangzhou** without prior visa application, while the transit scheme offers flexibility for short stops in cities such as **Chengdu** or **Xi'an**[1][2]. If your trip involves **Hainan Island**, ordinary passport holders from **59 countries** (including Australia) can also enter **visa-free** for up to **30 days**[2]. For those arriving in **Shanghai by cruise**, a separate **15-day visa-free stay** applies[2]. Applications for standard tourist visas (if required for longer stays or other purposes) should be submitted at least **two months in advance**, and tourist visas for mainland China can also be applied for in **Hong Kong**[2]. Always confirm your eligibility based on your passport type and travel itinerary before departure[1][5]. *According to Trip.com and Chinaloveforyou, these updates reflect China’s continued effort to simplify entry for international tourists in 2026.*[1][2]

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