Do I Need a Chinese Visa to Visit Now in 2025?

China has a long history and profound cultural heritage, and its natural landscapes are magnificent and diverse, from the tropical islands of Hainan to the plateau scenery of Tibet, attracting tourists from all over the world.

For traveling to China in 2025, citizens of most countries don’t need to apply for a China visa, those who fall under the 240-hour visa-free transit or 30-hour visa-free entry policy can travel to China visa-free. For citizens of countries not covered by the visa-free policy, you can apply for a visa at the local Chinese embassy, consulate and visa service center.

This article will detail the requirements for those who do and do not need a Chinese visa, helping you travel to China smoothly, and leave unforgettable memories!

Do I Need a Visa to Visit China? Who Doesn’t Need a Chinese Visa?

Whether a China visa is needed for you to enter China or not is relative to some factors, such as nationality, the travel purpose and duration stay in China. Not all foreign citizens visiting China need to apply for a Chinese visa in advance. Following is a list of foreign citizens without a Chinese visa allowed to enter China:

240-hour visa-free transit

Qualified persons from 54 countries who are in transit from China to a third country (region) can come to China visa-free from any of the 60 ports open to the outside world in 24 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities), and stay in the specified area for a period of not more than 240 hours.

First, belonging to the 54 countries applicable to the policy of transit visa-free citizens:

European countries (40): Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway
Americas (6): USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile
Oceania (2): Australia, New Zealand
Asian countries (6): South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar

Secondly, it’s necessary to hold a valid international travel document with a validity period of not less than 3 months, and meet the conditions for entry to a third country (region).

Thirdly, you must hold a combined ticket or relevant proof of travel to a third country (region) with a confirmed date and seat within 240 hours, fill out a temporary entry card, and undergo inspection and questioning by the border control authorities at the entry and exit of the country.

China’s visa-free policy drives surge in inbound tourists.

Visa-free entry within 30 days

Holders of ordinary passports from the following 38 countries can enter China visa-free if they come to China for business, sightseeing, visiting relatives or friends, exchange visits, or transit for not more than 30 days:

Brunei, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Japan.

If you are not included in any of the above exceptions, it's necessary to apply for a Chinese visa. Read on to find out how to apply and what documents are needed.

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Visa Application Methods: Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Service Centers

The method to apply for a Chinese visa depends on where you are based and what kind of visa you need. Embassies, consulates, and visa service centers are currently available to visit to apply for a Chinese visa. Here is a brief introduction:

Chinese Embassy or Consulate: The Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your own country will accept a visa application. It is the most straightforward way to apply for a visa. The embassy or consulate will advise on the process and tell what documents are needed.

Visa Application Service Center: A Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) to assist you with the formalities and process of the visa application is also available in many countries. On top of that, these centers also have photo-taking and document-checking services, which are very convenient.

Online application (for some kinds of visas): In some instances, like a

Chinese tourist visa, you can fill out an application online. But regardless, the physical documents still need to be delivered to the embassy, consulate, or service center.

More information about the visa application process can generally be found on the official website of the Chinese Embassy in your country.

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The Chinese Visa Application Service Center is processing the application.

Chinese Visa Photo Requirements: Ensuring a Smooth Application

Applying for a Chinese visa also has very strict requirements for the photo materials that you submit. The photo requirements are the following:

First, the photo size of 48x33mm slightly differs from the passport photo size in some countries, so ensure the photo is the right size.

Second, the photo must be recent, no more than 6 months old, and must accurately reflect the person's current appearance.

Third, the photo needs to show the person in it with both eyes opened and natural expression (don't smile, don't make faces that can lead to distortion of face). Headgear (such as headscarves) may only be worn for religious purposes and must not obscure the face.

Fourth, the background on the photo is white or close to white, and do not use a background with a landscape. Do not wear white or light-colored clothing that will blend into the background.

Fifth, the photo must be clear and have no scratches, tears or creases.

The submitted image is the one that is going to be applied for a Chinese visa and is going to be pasted on the visa document. All images have to meet these standards, otherwise, it will delay the application process.

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Photo requirements for Chinese visa applications, sample photos.

Applying for a Chinese Visa: Steps and Documents Needed

To apply for a Chinese visa, understanding the application procedure and documents is necessary. Here is a step-by-step guide:

First, determine what type of China visa you want to apply for; it can be a tourist visa, business visa, family visit visa, etc.

Second, choose where to apply for a Chinese visa. You can apply to an embassy, consulate or visa service center, or visit the Chinese visa online application website to complete a visa application form.

Third, applicants shall prepare a passport, photo, application form, entry and exit flight certificate, Chinese hotel reservation information, and other materials that are needed or based on actual conditions.

Fourth, after submitting the application procedures, just pay the fee and wait for approval.

A successful application for a Chinese visa.

Chinese Visa Fees: A Breakdown of Costs

Chinese visa fees vary depending on factors such as visa type, nationality, and number of entries. Usually, a single-entry tourist visa ranges from $45 to $140, and some visas—like for certain countries or multiple-entry visas—may cost more. If you need a visa expedited, additional fees will apply.

Always check the official website of the embassy or consulate for specific fees. It is important to note that visa fees are non-refundable even if the application is rejected.

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How Long Does It Take to Get a Chinese Visa? Depend on the Type of Visa

A regular service visa can take anywhere from 4 to 7 working days after application. If requiring it sooner, you could choose an expedited service that takes 2 to 3 working days.

Be sure to check the specific processing times of the visa service center or consulate in your area. These processing times exclude sending times, so if you want to mail the visa, just set aside more days.

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The magnificent Great Wall of China, a must-visit place after obtaining a Chinese visa.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Chinese Visa

First, plan ahead

It’s important to plan ahead and reserve the processing time to avoid delaying the trip.

Second, fill out the application form accurately

To apply for a Chinese visa, you need to fill out the application form accurately, and the photo must meet the requirements to avoid affecting the review results.

Third, prepare complete materials

Double-check whether you have brought all the necessary documents. Missing documents will cause application delays or even rejections.

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The bustling and beautiful night view of Shanghai Bund.

Conclusion

To travel to China in 2025, you will most likely don’t need a Chinese visa, unless not fall into one of the visa-free policies. It can be a little bit more tedious the first time you go through it, but it is definitely manageable as long as you follow the steps we gave.

Now you only need to take a passport or just apply for a Chinese visa step-by-step in advance, and then you can go to China immediately! You will surely have a wonderful travel experience!