📢 Official Update: The 16 new inbound tourism measures announced April 1, 2026, by
China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism are now in effect. Key changes include faster immigration clearance, expanded tax refund coverage, and optimized payment solutions for foreign tourists.
China has entered a new era of tourism openness. The world's most populous country is welcoming international visitors with expanded visa-free access, streamlined immigration processes, and improved payment solutions.
📊 Official Source: According to
China's National Immigration Administration, foreign visitor numbers reached 40.6 million in the past year, a
27.2% year-over-year increase. The visa-free policy extension through December 31, 2026, is part of China's strategy to boost inbound tourism.
✈️ 240-Hour Transit Visa-Free
The 240-hour (10-day) transit visa-free policy allows you to explore parts of China during layovers without a visa. Originally 72 hours, this has been significantly expanded.
✅ 55 Countries Eligible
Includes all 50 visa-free countries plus: Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Iran, and 1 more — essentially most European, American, and Asian passport holders.
🛫 Key Rules
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| Maximum Stay | 240 hours (10 days) |
| Entry/Exit Ports | Must use the same port or designated port pairs |
| Travel Zone | Confined to the province/city where your entry port is located |
| Onward Ticket | Confirmed ticket to a third country required |
| Permitted Zones | Cannot travel freely nationwide — restricted to designated area |
💡 Transit Tip: Use Shanghai!
Shanghai's 240h transit is particularly flexible — you can explore the entire Shanghai municipality including Shanghai Disneyland, Yu Garden, and day trips to Suzhou or Hangzhou by high-speed rail!
📱 New "One-Stop" Visa Reform: E-Entry QR Code
China is rolling out a Pre-Arrival Electronic Entry Card system in 2026 — a streamlined digital immigration process designed to reduce border wait times.
📋 How It Works
- Before departure: Visit the official China e-entry portal or scan QR code from airline
- Fill online form: Enter passport details, travel history, accommodation in China
- Customs declaration: Declare any goods, currency over ¥20,000, or restricted items
- Receive QR code: Save to phone — valid for 24 hours
- At immigration: Scan QR code at automated gates or present to officer
📍 Where It's Available: Currently rolling out at major airports including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Xi'an. More ports being added throughout 2026. Check with your airline for availability.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries are eligible for China's 30-day visa-free entry?
79 countries currently qualify for China's unilateral 30-day visa-free policy, including USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and more. The policy is valid until December 31, 2026.
Can I use the 240-hour transit visa-free to visit China?
Yes. Citizens from 55 countries can transit through China for up to 240 hours (10 days) without a visa, provided they enter and exit through designated ports. You cannot travel beyond the permitted zone and must have confirmed onward tickets.
What is the China e-entry QR code?
China's Pre-Arrival Electronic Entry Card (e-entry QR) is a streamlined immigration process being rolled out in 2026. Travelers from visa-free countries can complete customs declarations online before arrival, reducing border wait times. It's recommended but not yet mandatory for all ports.
How can I pay in China as a foreign tourist?
Major options include: (1) Alipay/WeChat Pay with international cards linked, (2) Digital Yuan (e-CNY) app with foreign phone number registration, (3) Cash at hotels and tourist shops, (4) International credit cards at high-end hotels. WeChat/Alipay with foreign cards is the most widely accepted.
Can I extend my visa-free stay beyond 30 days?
No, the 30-day visa-free period cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a proper visa (tourist L visa or other appropriate type) at the nearest Public Security Bureau (PSB) exit-entry department before your visa-free period expires. Overstaying is a serious offense.
What are the 16 new measures announced in April 2026?
Nine government departments jointly released 16 new measures on April 1, 2026. Key changes include: expanded foreign card acceptance on digital payment platforms, optimized international SMS verification, faster immigration clearance (under 30 minutes at major ports), 12,252 tax refund stores nationwide, and improved multilingual services at tourist sites.