China Visa Update — 5 July 2026
visa • 5 July 2026
Ordinary passport holders from **50 countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days** in 2026 for tourism, business, or family visits, with the policy for most of these nations valid until **31 December 2026** [1]. Additionally, eligible travellers transiting to a third country or region can utilise the **240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy**, allowing them to stay inland without a visa [1][3]. The visa-free scheme is already driving a significant boom in foreign arrivals, with approximately **436,000 visitors** entering visa-free in the summer period alone, a **14.7% increase** compared to 2025 [3]. This includes a growing number of **Australian tourists**, who specifically benefit from the 30-day visa-free allowance and are increasingly exploring lesser-known parts of China beyond traditional hotspots [3]. For those not qualifying for the 30-day entry, China also offers a **24-hour direct transit** option if staying within the restricted port area, alongside regional exemptions for destinations like **Hainan, Guilin, and cruise groups** [1]. The current validity varies by nationality; for instance, **Brunei** has no fixed end date, while **Russia’s** exemption extends to **31 December 2027** [1].Sources
- https://www.indochinatour.com/china-guide/chinese-visa.html
- https://www.instagram.com/p/DaPQqvFE-QK/
- https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3359034/visa-free-dividends-china-drawing-boom-foreign-visitors-summer
- https://embassyinformation.com/visa/cn/
- https://english.www.gov.cn/services/visitchina