Today, January 2, 2026, marks a new chapter for international travel to China. Following a series of landmark policy expansions late last year, the "Middle Kingdom" is now more accessible than ever. As of today, the landscape of China’s visa-free regime has shifted significantly, offering longer stays and more entry points for global travelers.
If you are planning a trip, here is the comprehensive breakdown of the China travel visa policies effective as of January 2, 2026.
1. The "30-Day Visa-Free" Unilateral Entry (48+ Countries)
The biggest news for 2026 is the extension and expansion of unilateral visa-free entry. As of today, ordinary passport holders from nearly 50 countries can enter China for up to 30 days without a visa for tourism, business, family visits, or transit.
Europe (Most Extensive): France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden (added late 2025).
Americas: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay (Policy effective through mid-2026).
Oceania: Australia and New Zealand.
Asia & Others: Russia (30-day trial active as of Jan 2, 2026), Malaysia, and Singapore (permanent agreement).
Key Rule: These stays cannot be used for work or long-term study. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity.
2. The 240-Hour (10-Day) Visa-Free Transit
For those transiting to a third country, China has officially expanded its transit program. As of January 2, 2026, the previous 144-hour limit has been increased to 240 hours in 65 designated ports across 24 provinces.
Eligible Countries (55 Total): Includes the USA, Canada, UK, Mexico, and most EU nations.
The Benefit: You can explore major regions like the Yangtze River Delta (Shanghai/Jiangsu/Zhejiang) or the Greater Bay Area (Guangdong) for a full 10 days without a visa, provided you have a confirmed ticket to a third destination.
3. Mutual Visa Waiver Agreements (Permanent)
Several countries enjoy permanent bilateral visa waivers for stays typically up to 30 or 90 days:
90 Days: Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, San Marino.
30 Days: Thailand, Singapore, UAE, Qatar, Maldives, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.
4. Reduced Fees & Fingerprint Exemptions
As of today, January 2, 2026, two major administrative reliefs have been extended:
Visa Fee Reduction: Most Chinese embassies continue to offer a 25% reduction on visa processing fees through December 31, 2026.
Fingerprint Exemption: For those who still require a visa (e.g., US, UK, or Canadian citizens applying for long-term multi-entry visas), the exemption from biometric (fingerprint) collection for short-term tourist and business visas remains in effect.
5. Digital Entry Procedures
In 2026, paper entry cards are becoming a thing of the past. Travelers can now complete their Digital Arrival Card online before landing, significantly speeding up the immigration process at Tier-1 airports like Beijing PEK, Shanghai PVG, and Guangzhou CAN.
Howhirelawfirm.cnCan Assist You
While travel is easier, "visa-free" does not mean "rule-free." Misunderstanding your stay limit or the purpose of your visit can lead to fines or future entry bans.
At hirelawfirm.cn, we provide:
Visa Compliance Audits: Ensuring your business activities don't cross into "illegal work."
Residence Permit Transitions: If you decide to stay in China longer than 30 days.
Overstay Legal Defense: Immediate assistance if you accidentally exceed your visa-free period.
Ready to visit China in 2026? Secure your legal peace of mind withhirelawfirm.cn.
