China Visa Update — 5 May 2026

visa • 5 May 2026

China's **visa-free entry policy now covers 50 countries**, allowing citizens to enter for up to 30 days without a visa through December 31, 2026.[3] The expanded scheme includes major markets across Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, significantly streamlining entry for international travelers. The policy covers **30 countries in Europe** (including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland), **six countries in the Americas** (Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay), **four in Asia-Pacific** (South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan), and **four in the Middle East** (Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman), among others.[1] Additional countries like Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and the UAE benefit from mutual visa-exemption agreements.[1] According to Xinhua, the expanded visa-free scheme is already delivering results, with inbound tourism surging during the May Day holiday.[3] Hotels in Yunnan reported foreign occupancy jumped over 40 percent year-on-year, while Guangxi experienced sold-out ferry sailings to popular destinations.[3] To accommodate increased arrivals, airports are accelerating biometric e-channel retrofits, with the National Immigration Administration pledging to keep immigration queues under 30 minutes even during peak travel periods.[3] For travelers planning extended stays, those wishing to remain longer than 30 days must convert to the appropriate visa or residence permit after arrival.[3] The Chinese government recommends confirming specific requirements with your local Chinese Embassy or Consulate before travel, as policy details may vary based on passport type.[1]

Sources