FAQ on visa-free entry to China for citizens from six countries

1. Do individuals eligible for the Chinese visa exemption need to make a prior declaration to Chinese embassies and consulates before traveling to China?

Individuals eligible for the visa exemption policy do not need to do so.

2. Are travel reasons to China verified by Chinese border control posts and how? Does the individual need to present documents in addition to the passport at the entry of the Chinese territory?

Foreigners traveling to China for business, tourism, family or friendly visits, or transit, and meeting the conditions for visa exemption, can enter Chinese territory under the authorization of border control posts that have conducted the necessary checks according to the law. Foreigners whose travel purposes do not conform to the cases specified in the visa exemption policy or those prohibited from entering China by law will be denied entry by border control authorities. It is recommended to carry documents justifying the purpose of travel, such as invitation letters, flight and hotel reservations, etc. Individuals traveling to China for work, study, or reporting do not qualify for visa exemption.

3. Are there specific conditions for applying the visa exemption policy to minors?

The application conditions are the same for adults and minors.

4. What are the requirements for type and validity of travel documents?

Foreigners traveling to China must have an ordinary passport valid for the entire stay in China. Foreigners holding documents other than ordinary passports, such as travel certificates, temporary or emergency papers, are not eligible for the Chinese visa exemption.

5. How to calculate the duration of the 15-day stay?

Eligible individuals can stay in Chinese territory without interruption until 24:00 on the 15th day from the day of entry.

6. Is it possible to depart from a country other than the country of nationality?

Individuals eligible for visa exemption can depart from any country (or region) outside Chinese territory.

7. Does this policy apply to modes of transportation to enter Chinese territory other than flights?

Visa exemption applies to all Chinese airports, land ports, and maritime ports open to foreigners (except as specified in laws and regulations or special bilateral agreements). If the individual uses their own vehicle to enter China, they must complete entry and exit procedures for their vehicle in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations.

8. Can tourist groups benefit from the visa exemption policy?

Foreigners who meet the conditions for visa exemption, whether part of a tourist group or traveling individually, can all benefit from it.

9. Is it possible to apply for a visa extension if the stay in China exceeds 15 days?

Foreigners wishing to stay in China for more than 15 days must apply for a corresponding visa in advance from Chinese embassies or consulates. Those who entered Chinese territory with visa exemption can, if they have a legitimate and justified reason to continue their stay in China, apply for a stopover or stay document from the entry and exit control offices of the Chinese Ministry of Public Security.

10. Is the visa exemption valid for multiple entries? Are there limits on entry intervals, the number of entries, and the total duration of stays?

The visa exemption is valid for multiple entries for eligible individuals. So far, there are no restrictions on the number of entries and the total duration of stays. However, it should be noted that the individual cannot engage in activities inconsistent with the purpose of entry into China that was declared to obtain the visa exemption.

Source: Chinese Embassy

http://nl.china-embassy.gov.cn/chn/ls/202401/t20240115_11224216.htm