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Passport preparation

policy2026/04/09
I. Core Passport Requirements


  • Passport Validity:Remaining validity must be ≥6 months, not even one day less!


  • Blank Visa Pages:At least 2 blank pages must be retained for stamping and visa stickers.


  • Old Passport:If you have one, bring the original along with a photocopy of the information page (those who once held Chinese nationality must also bring their original Chinese passport).


  • Photo Requirements:A recent front-facing color photo with a plain light-colored background is required; it should be affixed to the visa application form (photos can be taken on-site at the visa center).


Note:Travel documents or other non-standard passports are not eligible for visa-free entry and require prior issuance of the appropriate document.


II. Visa-Free Entry Policies


  • Unilateral Visa Exemption:Holders of ordinary passports from certain countries may enter China for tourism, visiting relatives, or exchanges without a visa for stays of ≤30 days (a detailed list of eligible countries can be found on the Chinese Consular Service website).


  • 240-Hour Transit Visa Exemption:The permitted stay is extended to 10 days, applicable at 60 ports nationwide (including Hangzhou Xiaoshan and Nanchang Changbei airports), covering 24 provinces and municipalities, and 55 countries (including newly added Indonesia).


  • Hainan Visa Exemption:Nationals from 59 countries can enter Hainan visa-free and enjoy an additional 144-hour transit exemption, ideal for travelers specifically visiting Hainan.


III. L-Visa for Tourism


If your country is not on the visa-exempt list, simply apply for an L-visa for tourism in advance.


Core Documents:


  1. Original valid passport plus a photocopy of the information page.


2. Completed and submitted online “Application Form for the People’s Republic of China Visa” (available on the visa center’s official website).


3. A recent, standard-compliant, bareheaded photograph.


4. Round-trip flight booking, hotel reservation, or an invitation letter from domestic relatives/organizations (clearly stating your personal details, itinerary, inviter’s information, and signed with official seal).


Special Cases


  • Family Visit (Q2 Visa):Additional proof of kinship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate) is required.


  • Emergency Situations:Visas can be obtained at port-of-entry visa authorities (supporting documents such as invitation letters are necessary).


IV. Key Reminders for Entry and Stay


  • Duration of Stay Calculation:For visa-free entries, the permitted stay begins the day after arrival and lasts up to 30 days; for visas, the duration is as indicated on the visa itself.


  • Prohibited Activities:Do not engage in activities inconsistent with the purpose of your visa (e.g., working on a tourist visa), nor overstay your permitted period, as this will affect future visits to China.


  • Documentation Preparation:Upon entry, it is recommended to carry proof of your itinerary (flight tickets, hotel reservations, invitation letters) to facilitate inspection by immigration officers.


  • Policy Updates:Lists of visa-exempt countries and transit-exempt ports are updated regularly; please check the National Immigration Administration website before departure to confirm current regulations.