Three visa paths — pick the one that fits
Start with your ordinary passport, purpose, stay length and full route. Nationality-specific visa-free entry, 240-hour transit and a tourist visa have different conditions. Check the official rule that applies before committing to travel.
Nationality-specific visa-free entry. Eligibility, purposes, permitted stay and validity dates depend on the arrangement for your passport. Check the current Chinese embassy or consulate guidance for that nationality; do not assume a universal 30-day allowance or a common list of entry ports.
240-hour transit. The NIA policy checked on 7 September 2026 lists 57 countries, 65 designated ports and permitted areas in 24 provincial-level regions. It requires an eligible ordinary passport and a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region, with no more than ten days in the permitted areas. Work, study and reporting require the appropriate prior approval or visa. Current NIA policy and lists.
Tourist visa. If the applicable visa-free conditions do not cover your visit, consult the Chinese embassy, consulate or authorized visa centre serving your application. Required documents, processing times, entry count and permitted stay depend on the application and decision; no standard 30–180-day stay or guaranteed processing time is promised here.
Match your passport and actual route to the current official rule. A travel planner does not decide admission.
