Quick answer: For US passport holders, China requires a visa in advance for tourist stays of up to 30 days. UK travelers: requires a visa in advance. Rules vary by nationality and change often — always confirm with the official government or embassy site before booking.
⚠️ Always verify before you book. Visa rules change frequently and depend on your exact nationality, passport, purpose, and length of stay. Use this as a starting point, then confirm with the official government or embassy website. This is general information, not legal or immigration advice.
Do you need a visa to visit China? Here is a clear breakdown of China visa requirements for 2026 by passport, including how long you can stay, whether you can get a visa on arrival or e-visa, and how to apply. Requirements vary by nationality, so find your passport below.
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China visa requirements by passport
| Passport | Status | Max stay |
|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States | Visa required | 30 days |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | Visa required | 90 days |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | Visa required | 90 days |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | Visa required | 90 days |
| 🇮🇳 India | Visa required | 90 days |
Stays shown are typical maximums for tourism. Business, work, and study require different visas.
What each passport needs
🇺🇸 United States passport — visa-required
L-visa required ~$185. 144-hour visa-free transit available at major airports.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom passport — visa-required
Visa required from the embassy or consulate before departure. Allow 2-6 weeks for processing.
🇨🇦 Canada passport — visa-required
Visa required from the embassy or consulate before departure. Allow 2-6 weeks for processing.
🇦🇺 Australia passport — visa-required
Visa required from the embassy or consulate before departure. Allow 2-6 weeks for processing.
🇮🇳 India passport — visa-required
Visa required from the embassy or consulate before departure. Allow 2-6 weeks for processing.
How to apply for a China visa
- Check the official source first. Search for the official China immigration or foreign-ministry website (avoid third-party visa agents that charge extra fees).
- Confirm your category. Tourist visa rules differ from business, transit, work, and study. Pick the right one.
- Check passport validity. Most countries require at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates and one or two blank pages.
- Apply with time to spare. e-Visas often take 3-7 working days; embassy visas can take 2-3 weeks. Apply at least 30 days before departure.
- Keep proof handy. Carry printed confirmation, onward/return tickets, and proof of funds — these are commonly checked at the border.
Plan your China trip
China visa FAQ
Do US citizens need a visa for China?
For US passport holders, China is currently "visa-required" for stays up to 30 days. Rules can change, so always confirm on the official China government website before booking. Business or long stays may need a different visa.
How long can I stay in China as a tourist?
Typical tourist stays in China range up to the limits shown in the table above, depending on your passport. Overstaying can result in fines or future entry bans, so note your permitted duration and any extension rules on arrival.
Can I get a visa on arrival in China?
Whether China offers visa on arrival depends on your nationality — see the table above. Where available, visa on arrival usually requires a valid passport, proof of onward travel, proof of funds, and a fee payable in cash or card at the border.
What do I need to enter China?
At minimum you typically need a passport valid for 6+ months, the correct visa or entry authorization for your nationality, proof of onward or return travel, and sometimes proof of funds or accommodation. Always verify the current checklist with official sources.