China Expands 30-Day Visa-Free Access to 74 Countries: Complete List and Entry Guidelines

China has significantly broadened its travel policies by allowing visa-free entry for citizens from 74 countries. Travelers can now stay for up to 30 days without needing a visa. This initiative aims to enhance tourism, revive the economy post-pandemic, and strengthen international ties.

China is once again becoming a major destination for travelers worldwide. This new policy has the potential to reshape global travel trends. By welcoming tourists from 74 nations, China seeks to boost its tourism sector and foster economic growth.

Who Qualifies for Visa-Free Entry?

China now permits visa-free access for up to 30 days to passport holders from 74 countries. This shift has resulted in a notable increase in tourism, with over 20 million foreign visitors anticipated to enter without a visa in 2024—more than twice the number from the previous year.

The policy began in late 2023 with just six countries: France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia. However, it rapidly expanded to include nations across Europe, Latin America, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

Full List of 74 Countries Eligible for 30-Day Visa-Free Entry

Here’s the list of countries whose citizens can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days:

Europe:

• Albania
• Austria
• Belgium
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Moldova
• Montenegro
• Netherlands
• North Macedonia
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Serbia
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Switzerland
• Ukraine

Asia:

• Brunei
• Japan
• Kazakhstan
• Malaysia
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Thailand
• United Arab Emirates
• Uzbekistan
• Azerbaijan (Effective from July 16, 2025)

Middle East:

• Bahrain
• Iran
• Oman
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia

Latin America:

• Argentina
• Brazil
• Chile
• Ecuador
• Peru

Oceania:

• New Zealand
• Fiji

Africa:

• Seychelles
• Mauritius
• Tunisia

Caribbean and North America:

• Bahamas
• Barbados
• Dominica
• Grenada
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Jamaica

Others:

• Georgia
• San Marino

Note: The list is set to grow, with Azerbaijan joining on July 16, 2025.

Requirements for Visa-Free Entry to China

To take advantage of the 30-day visa exemption, travelers must:

• Be a citizen of one of the 74 listed countries.
• Hold a valid ordinary passport.
• Enter for tourism, business, family visits, or transit.
• Not exceed a continuous stay of 30 days per visit.
• Avoid engaging in paid employment or long-term study.
• No pre-registration is necessary. Just arrive in China, present your passport, and you can enter hassle-free.

Is the 30-Day Stay Extendable?

Unfortunately, the 30-day visa-free stay cannot be extended. If you wish to remain longer, you must exit and re-enter China or apply in advance for a suitable visa. Overstaying can lead to serious consequences, including fines, deportation, or bans.

What’s Driving the Change?

China’s aim is straightforward: attract more foreign tourists and reconnect with the global community. So far, this strategy is showing positive results. Tour operators report increased demand, particularly from European travelers, prompting airlines to boost direct flights to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

Despite the influx of foreign tourists, domestic visitors still dominate most attractions. However, this policy change may alter that balance, especially during the busy summer months.

Final Thoughts

This expansion of visa-free access marks a significant shift in China’s travel policies. For travelers from the 74 eligible countries, opportunities abound. Whether you’re drawn by the cuisine, culture, business prospects, or pure curiosity, now is an ideal time to explore.

So, check your passport, book that flight, and prepare for an incredible 30 days in one of the world’s most captivating destinations—all without the need for visa paperwork.