50 countries can visit China without a visa for up to 30 days. New 16-point policy makes travel easier than ever!
In May 2026, China introduced a comprehensive 16-point policy to boost inbound tourism. Key changes include visa-free travel expanded to 50 countries, 240-hour transit visa-free for 55 countries, enhanced payment options for international cards (95% success rate), cross-province tax refunds, and electronic visa pilot programs. Xi'an is fully covered under all new policies!
Citizens from these countries can visit China for tourism, business, family visits, or transit without a visa for up to 30 days
48 countries: Until Dec 31, 2026 (up to 30 days)
Brunei: No expiration date
Russia: Until Sep 14, 2026 (up to 30 days)
8 countries: Until Dec 31, 2026 (up to 30 days)
Brunei: No expiration date
Until Dec 31, 2026 (up to 30 days)
Even if your country isn't on the 50-country list, you may still qualify for visa-free transit!
Europe (40): All Schengen + UK, Ireland, Russia, Ukraine, Serbia, Bosnia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Monaco, Norway
Americas (6): USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile
Asia (7): Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Brunei, UAE, Qatar, Indonesia
Oceania (2): Australia, New Zealand
65 ports including Xi'an Xianyang Airport, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and more
24 provinces with cross-province travel allowed. Zhejiang pilot zone for extended stays
Valid passport (3+ months), confirmed onward ticket within 240 hours, arrive from different country
Shanghai Pudong pilot: Online e-visa application for invited foreign personnel
Announced in May 2026, the 16-point policy systematically removes barriers for international visitors:
Unilateral visa-free expanded from 32 to 50 countries. Mutual visa exemption increased to 29 countries.
240-hour transit visa-free covers 55 countries. Zhejiang pilot zone allows cross-province travel within 10 days.
Shanghai Pudong pilot: Businesses can apply for electronic port visas online for invited foreign personnel.
International card binding success rate improved to 95%. Alipay & WeChat fully support foreign bank cards.
Cross-province tax refund recognition. "Instant refund" available at 8,000+ stores nationwide.
Major airports, tourist sites, and public venues now offer comprehensive multilingual signage and services.
Beijing "Go Beijing" platform offers 39 services in 16 languages: taxi, tickets, refunds, and more.
"Sports + Tourism" packages, expedited immigration for major events, integrated cultural experiences.
What you need to enter China visa-free
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date. Ensure you have at least one blank page for entry stamps.
You must have a confirmed return ticket or ticket to a third country. Immigration officers will verify your departure plans within the allowed period.
Have hotel reservations ready to show if requested. This can be printed or on your phone. Airbnb, Booking.com confirmations are accepted.
Immigration officers may ask about your financial situation. Have proof of funds or credit cards available.
Complete the arrival/departure card provided on your flight. Declare accurately - no criminal record is required for visa-free entry.
Key rules for visa-free travel
Multiple convenient options for international travelers
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) has direct flights from major cities including Singapore, Seoul, Bangkok, and more. Visa-free entry through Xi'an airport!
Connected via Beijing (4.5h), Shanghai (6h), Zhengzhou (2h), and Chengdu (3h). Book through official apps with international card support.
Fly into Shanghai Pudong (e-visa pilot zone), then take high-speed rail to Xi'an. Perfect for combining both cities!
Common questions about visa-free entry
You can apply for a 30-day extension at the local immigration bureau. This requires a valid reason and approval is not guaranteed. Overstaying will result in fines and potential entry bans.
Yes, visa-free policies apply to all ages. Each person, including infants, must have their own valid passport. Children cannot be included on parent's passport.
The visa-free policy allows for multiple entries as long as each visit meets the requirements. However, frequent repeated entries may raise questions about your travel purpose.
You can still benefit from the 240-hour transit visa-free if you're transiting through designated Chinese cities to a third country. Otherwise, you need to apply for a tourist visa at your nearest Chinese embassy.
Yes! Xi'an Xianyang International Airport is one of the designated ports for the 240-hour transit visa-free policy. You can enter China via Xi'an and travel within the permitted 24 provinces.
International cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are now accepted at 95% of merchants. Alipay and WeChat support foreign bank card binding. You can also use cash at banks and exchange counters.
Check our travel guide for tips on visiting Xi'an and book your tickets today!