Regulations
The People’s Republic of China (PRC) adheres to the international system and issues visas in accordance with its laws and regulations, which may be subject to periodic modifications. The information provided on this page pertains solely to entry into mainland China and does not cover entry rules for Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan. While there are a few exceptions, most foreign travelers require a visa. Generally, travelers must obtain a visa prior to their trip, but there are a few situations where it is not necessary.
Foreign travelers with connecting tickets who are transiting through China are exempt from visa requirements as long as they remain in the airport’s transit area for no longer than 24 hours.
Certain visas can only be applied for outside of China, some can be applied for both inside and outside of China, and one type, known as the temporary residence permit, can only be obtained within China.
The regulations take into account various factors, such as nationality, whether you have family in China, whether you were previously a Chinese citizen, and the specific type of visa you are applying for. Additionally, each issuing office has some discretion in implementing the regulations. Therefore, it is impossible to provide an exact explanation of what will happen or offer any certainties. However, these guidelines will be applicable to most situations.
The regulations are not always enforced to their fullest extent, but the government may issue directives at any time to apply the regulations more strictly to individuals, applicants from certain nations, or during special events such as the Olympic Games. Therefore, you may be asked at any time to provide full travel bookings, show a minimum amount of funds, or have invitations from Chinese individuals or organizations.
Visas can be issued for various durations, with immediate or later start dates, and can allow for single entry, dual entry, or multiple entries. If you exit mainland China, including to Hong Kong and Macau, you will need a valid entry permit to re-enter. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a new one at a consulate (or equivalent in Hong Kong) before being allowed entry.
Chinese visas are typically paper sheets glued into your passport, although occasionally they may be rubber stamps.
Nationality Matters
The rules regarding visas vary depending on the nationality of your passport. Here, we aim to provide some general guidelines, but if you have any doubts, please contact the appropriate office.
Like most countries, China has regulations that are stricter on paper than they are in practice. It may be that nationals of certain countries have been found to overstay their visas more frequently, have a higher incidence of crime, are associated with terrorism, or are from nations with strained diplomatic relations. Currently, it appears that applicants from certain Asian countries are required to obtain invitations and demonstrate sufficient funds.
Visa fees also vary significantly based on nationality.
