Hainan Visa-free Entry Policy: Everything you need to know
Since February 9, 2024, China has expanded the visa-free entry purposes for citizens from 59 countries traveling to Hainan.
Table of Contents
1. Eligible Countries
Citizens from the following 59 countries can enter Hainan visa-free:
| Continent | Countries |
|---|---|
| Europe | Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom |
| Americas | Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, United States |
| Oceania | Australia, New Zealand |
| Asia | Brunei, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Monaco, Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, United Arab Emirates |
2. Purpose of Visa-Free Entry
Citizens from these 59 countries can enter Hainan visa-free for tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, exhibitions, and sports events. Work and study purposes are not covered under this policy.
3. Duration of Stay
Travelers can stay in Hainan for up to 30 days, starting from midnight the day after entry.
4. Entry Methods
Visitors from eligible countries can enter Hainan visa-free through any open port in the province. Acceptable means of entry include:
- Commercial flights
- Chartered flights
- Cruise ships
Visa-free entry is granted upon inspection by the immigration authorities. No prior application is needed.
Entry Ports in Hainan:
- Haikou Meilan International Airport
- Sanya Phoenix International Airport
- Qionghai Bo’ao Airport
- Yangpu Port
- Haikou Port
- Qinglan Port
- Basuo Port
- Sanya Port
Travel Tip: If no direct flights to Hainan are available from your country, you can transit through a country with direct flights or via Hong Kong or Macau before entering Hainan.
5. Travel Restrictions
Travelers under this policy must remain within Hainan Province.
If you wish to extend your stay or travel to mainland China, you must apply for a visa at the Hainan Public Security Bureau’s Entry-Exit Administration before your visa-free period expires.
6. Special Considerations
- If a country has a mutual visa exemption agreement with China, that agreement applies instead.
- Travelers eligible for other Chinese visa-free policies can choose the most convenient option.
Why Visit Hainan?
1. China’s Only Tropical Island Province & Tourist Hotspot
Hainan is China’s southernmost province and the only tropical island in the country. It is home to the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, one of China’s first five national parks.
Excellent Connectivity: Hainan has three international airports, the world’s first island-circling high-speed rail, and stunning coastal highways for easy travel.
Major Events: The island hosts Boao Forum for Asia, China International Consumer Products Expo, Hainan International Film Festival, Hainan Carnival, Tour of Hainan Cycling Race, and Hainan International Sailing Regatta.
Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy surfing, yacht cruises, rainforest treks, scenic road trips, and rich cultural experiences.
2. China’s Largest Special Economic Zone & Global Free Trade Port
Hainan is not only a major tourist destination but also China’s largest special economic zone and the world’s largest free trade port.
The province follows a zero-tariff, low-tax, and simplified taxation model, promoting free and open trade, investment, and cross-border financial flows. Hainan’s economic policies are designed to rival the world’s most open free trade hubs.
