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China visa-free policy updates
Changes to China's entry rules, as soon as they're published in Chinese — translated and explained. Subscribe via RSS.
- Will China's 30-day visa-free policy be extended after 31 December 2026?Developing
For 48 of the 50 countries, the current notice ends on 31 December 2026. No extension has been announced yet. Here is what we know and what to do if you travel in 2027.
- Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam added to 240-hour transit and Hainan visa-freeNew
From 20 August 2026, citizens of Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam can use 240-hour visa-free transit (now 57 countries) and Hainan 30-day visa-free entry (now 61 countries).
- Visa-free entry for Russian citizens extended to 31 December 2027
China extended 30-day visa-free entry for ordinary Russian passport holders to 31 December 2027 — a year beyond the other countries on the unilateral list.
- UK and Canadian citizens can now visit China visa-free for 30 days
From 17 February 2026, ordinary passport holders from the United Kingdom and Canada can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days, bringing the unilateral list to 50 countries.
- China launches online arrival cards for foreigners
Since 20 November 2025 foreigners can fill in the arrival card online before travelling — on the NIA website, the 12367 app or WeChat/Alipay mini-programs.
- Sweden added to China's visa-free list
Swedish citizens with ordinary passports can visit China visa-free for up to 30 days from 10 November 2025.