China Visa Update — 12 October 2026
visa • 12 October 2026
China has expanded visa-free access in 2026, with ordinary-passport holders from **50 countries** able to enter for tourism and stay for up to **30 days**. Australia is included in the current unilateral visa-free programme, which is scheduled to run until **31 December 2026**. [2][4] A separate **240-hour visa-free transit** scheme now covers citizens of **57 countries**. Eligible travellers must be transiting to a different third country or region, hold a confirmed onward ticket, and enter through one of **65 designated ports** across 24 provincial-level areas. [2][4] The policy is supporting stronger visitor numbers: China recorded **23.72 million visa-free entries between January and August 2026**, up 26.8 per cent year on year. During the October National Day holiday, foreign visitors made **682,000 inbound trips**, including 505,000 under visa-free arrangements. [5][8] Australian travellers should check the latest National Immigration Administration requirements before departure, particularly passport validity, permitted travel purpose and whether their itinerary qualifies for the 30-day entry waiver or the 240-hour transit route. Visa requirements may differ for work, study, journalism and other non-tourism activities.Sources
- https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visit/china-set-to-resume-issuing-visas-eases-entry-policies-as-it-emerges-from-covid-zero/printarticle/98651574.cms
- https://www.localkeytravel.com/china-guide/china-travel-guide-2026
- https://www.chinamile.com/entry/visa-free-countries
- http://english.scio.gov.cn/m/in-depth/2026-10/08/content_118724981.html
- https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-10-09/Visa-free-policies-boost-China-s-inbound-tourism-for-National-Day-1R6q2jVL0NG/share_amp.html