Planning a trip to China in 2026 and confused about visas, entry rules, or whether your passport qualifies for visa-free entry? This guide breaks everything down in a simple, clear way — perfect for first-time visitors and travellers using the 240-hour transit visa policy.

Find out:

Visa & Entry Options to China for 2026
Online Arrival Card
Documents needed to enter China
Entry Rules for UK, US and Australian Citizens
Common Mistakes
FAQs

🧭 Overview of China Entry Options (2026)

Travellers entering China now have three main entry pathways, depending on nationality and how long you plan to stay:

1. 🌟 Visa-Free Entry to China in 2026

China has extended its visa-free policy for certain countries, allowing stays of 30 days depending on your passport.

Who qualifies?

Visa-free entry is currently available for travellers from 47 countries from Europe, Oceania, Asia & South America
Note: UK, USA, and Canada are NOT included.

👉 See the full China Visa Free Countries List (2026)

How long can you stay visa-free?

Most visa-free travellers can stay for 30 days

2. ✈️ 240-Hour Transit Visa (TWOV)

This is one of the most useful entry options for UK, US, and Canadian travellers who want a short trip without applying for a full visa.

How it works

You can stay in parts of China for 240 hours if you:

Arrive from Country A
Stay in designated regions and cities of China
Depart to Country B (not the same as A)

For example:
London → Shanghai → Tokyo
Sydney → Guangzhou → Bangkok
Los Angeles → Beijing → Seoul

A popular option for UK, US, Australian and many other travellers from 55 countries. Allows entry into select cities and areas for up to 10 days if you transit to a third country.

👉 See our Updated Article on China’s 10 Day Transit Visa

3. 🛂 China Tourist Visa (L Visa)

If you’re staying longer than the visa-free or transit periods allow, or your route doesn’t qualify for TWOV, you’ll need a standard tourist visa.

Requirements include:

Valid passport (6+ months expiry)
Completed application form
Passport photo
Return/onward flight
Hotel bookings or invitation letter
Itinerary (Eventurus can help prepare this)

Required for most travellers who don’t qualify for visa-free or transit options.

NEW: Online Arrival Card

All travellers can now complete China’s online arrival card before clearing immigration. Paper arrival cards are still currently available at airports.
👉 Read More about China’s Online Arrival Card here

📄 Documents You Need to Enter China in 2025

Even if you are visa-free or using the transit visa, the following are required:

✔ Passport (6+ months validity)

✔ Completed online arrival card (or paper one)

✔ Return or onward ticket

✔ Accommodation details (hotel or host)

✔ Itinerary for your stay

✔ Proof of transit (if using TWOV)

🇬🇧 Entry Rules for UK Citizens

UK passport holders are not eligible for visa-free entry, but they can use the 240-hour transit visa or apply for a tourist L visa.

🇺🇸 Entry Rules for US Citizens

US citizens are not eligible for visa-free entry, but they can use the 240-hour transit visa or apply for a tourist L visa.

🇦🇺 Entry Rules for Australian Citizens

Australians can enter 30 days visa free to China. They can also get the 240 hour transit visa, or apply for a tourist visa if wanting to stay longer than 30 days.

Common Mistakes Travellers Make

❌ Booking a round-trip flight (no third destination)

This breaks TWOV rules.

❌ Filling arrival card incorrectly

Small mistakes cause delays.

❌ Not carrying hotel addresses

Immigration may ask for them.

❌ Overstaying

China is VERY strict about this.

Eventurus can help plan a compliant itinerary so you don’t run into issues.

FAQ: China Entry Requirements (2025)

Is China visa free for UK or US citizens?

No — UK and US citizens need a visa unless they qualify for the transit visa.

How long can I stay in China on the transit visa?

240 hours (10 days), starting from the midnight AFTER your arrival.

Do I need to fill out an arrival card?

Yes — every traveller must complete it before reaching immigration. Use the online arrival card or paper arrival cards are still available for now.

Can I leave the transit visa regions?

You must stay within the designated areas and cities allowed for the transit visa, though you can travel between them. Check the National Immigration Administration website or speak with Eventurus.

🚀 Plan Your China Trip With Us

Whether you're visiting China visa-free, using the transit option, or applying for a tourist visa, we can help you plan a smooth, stress-free trip.

We design:

Fully customised itineraries
Visa-friendly travel plans
Family trips, teen-friendly routes, foodie tours
Shanghai walking tours and regional adventures

👉 Message us to plan your China trip
or
👉 Download our free 10-Day China Itinerary

🌏 China Visa & Entry Requirements 2026: What Travellers Need to Know