China Visa 2026: Entry, Stay & Residence Guide
This China visa 2026 guide covers visa-free entry and transit, visa extensions, residence registration, residence permits, and work permits for foreigners.
It explains the main entry rules and deadlines for visitors, students, and people planning to stay in China for work, study, or long-term residence.
China Visa 2026: Visa-Free Entry and Transit
30-Day Visa-Free Entry to China in 2026
China’s visa-free entry policy currently allows eligible ordinary passport holders from 50 countries to stay for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, exchanges, or transit.
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit
The 240-hour visa-free transit policy is different. It currently covers nationals of 57 countries traveling through China to a third country or region, using 65 designated ports in 24 provincial-level regions.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible travelers must:
- Be nationals of one of the 57 eligible countries
- Hold a valid ordinary passport
- Travel onward to a third country or region
- Have a confirmed onward ticket with a departure date and seat
The policy currently covers 65 designated ports in 24 provincial-level regions and allows a stay of up to 240 hours (10 days).
Where Can Travelers Enter?
The policy applies through designated ports across China, including major destinations such as:
- Beijing
- Shanghai
- Guangzhou
- Chengdu
- Hangzhou
What Can You Do During Visa-Free Transit?
Eligible travelers may use the stay for activities such as:
- Tourism
- Business
- Exchange visits
- Family visits
Working, studying, or journalism activities require the appropriate visa or permit.
How Can Foreigners Extend a China Visa?
Foreigners who need a longer stay should apply for a visa extension at least 7 days before their permitted stay expires at the local Exit and Entry Administration.
The application process varies by visa type, but common required documents include:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Completed Foreigner Visa Application Form
- Recent ID photo
- Documents explaining the reason for the extension
- Other documents required for the relevant visa type
Applications are handled by the local Exit and Entry Administration.
How Does Residence Registration Work in China?
Residence registration in China is required within 24 hours for foreigners staying outside a hotel. Hotels normally complete the registration for their guests
2026 update: Since September 21, 2026, foreigners staying in non-hotel accommodation can register online nationwide. The NIA website, NIA 12367 app, WeChat mini-program, and Alipay mini-program support the service. In-person registration with local public security authorities is still available.
The nationwide online system and the 24-hour rule are confirmed by the National Immigration Administration.
How Do You Apply for a Residence Permit in China?
If your visa states that you need a residence permit after entry, you must apply within 30 days of entering China. Apply at the local Exit and Entry Administration where you plan to live.
Common documents include:
- Valid passport or international travel document
- Visa/Stay Permit/Residence Permit Application Form
- Recent ID photo
- Documents showing the reason for your residence in China
- Any additional documents required for your permit type
Most applicants apply in person. An authorized representative may apply for some applicants, including people under 16 or over 60 and people unable to apply personally because of illness or disability.
What Visa and Residence Permit Deadlines Should Foreigners Track?
Residence Permit Validity
- Apply for an extension 30 days before the current validity period ends.
- Update changes such as your name or passport number within 10 days.
Work Permit Validity
Foreigners who work in China need a valid work permit in China and the correct visa or residence status.
- 90 days or less: Apply for a Z visa with a Notification Letter for Foreigner’s Work Permit. Work only during the period allowed by the visa.
- More than 90 days: Apply for a Z visa before entering China. After arrival, complete the required work-permit and work-related residence-permit procedures.
- Work permit extension: The employer should apply 30 days before the current work permit expires.
- Changes: Changes to your name, passport number, or job position should be reported within 10 working days.
Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents
Non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macao can apply for a Mainland Travel Permit for tourism, business, family visits, exchanges, and other eligible short stays.
Applications are handled through China Travel Service in Hong Kong or Macao. The permit is valid for five years, allows multiple entries, and permits stays of up to 90 days per visit.
What Immigration Rules Should Foreigners Follow in China?
- Complete residence registration when required.
- Do not overstay your permitted stay.
- Follow your visa or residence-permit conditions.
- Do not work or study without the required permission.
- Apply for extensions and permit changes before the relevant deadlines
Emergency Contacts for Foreigners in China
Useful emergency numbers include:
- Police: 110
- Fire: 119
- Medical emergency: 120
If you lose your passport, report it to the nearest local police station as soon as possible.
Official Immigration Resources
For immigration questions, the existing guide recommends:
- National Immigration Administration
- Immigration Service Hotline: 12367
- Local Exit and Entry Administration offices
Use official Chinese government immigration channels when checking visa rules, forms, extensions, or residence permits.
Ready to Study in China?
International students should also check the visa and residence requirements for their study programme before traveling.
Apply For China can help students compare universities and prepare their China university applications.
Related China Visa & Entry Guides
- Chinese Visa Application Centre guide
- China visa types, fees and application requirements
- China Student Visa: X1 and X2 Guide
- China K Visa guide
China Visa 2026 FAQs
It depends on your nationality and reason for travel. China currently allows eligible ordinary-passport holders from certain countries to enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Other travelers may need a visa.
The 30-day policy allows eligible travelers to enter China without a visa for approved purposes. The 240-hour policy is for eligible travelers transiting through China to a third country or region.
Yes. If you stay outside a hotel, you or the person hosting you must register the accommodation within 24 hours of arrival. Hotels normally complete the registration for guests.
If your visa requires a residence permit after entry, you must apply within 30 days of entering China.
Yes, if you have a valid reason to stay longer. Apply at the local Exit and Entry Administration at least seven days before your permitted stay expires.
Yes. Foreigners working in China generally need the required work authorization. The process differs depending on the type and length of employment.