240-hour visa-free transit (10 days)
Citizens of 55+ countries (US, UK, most of Europe, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and more) can transit China visa-free for up to 240 hours / 10 days — provided they hold an onward ticket (confirmed date & seat) to a third country or region. Entry is via 60 designated ports across 24 provinces; you may travel within the permitted region for tourism and business. This is ideal for layover trips (e.g. US→Beijing 5 days→Japan).
Bilateral visa-free entry
China has mutual visa-exemption agreements with several countries (e.g. Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, UAE, Qatar, Belarus and others, for 15–30 days) — check with your local Chinese embassy or visa service before relying on it.
Standard tourist (L) visa
For longer stays or trips that don't fit transit rules: apply at a China Visa Application Service Center with passport (6+ months validity), photos, itinerary and hotel bookings. Processing is usually 4–7 working days; costs vary by country and entry type.
On arrival & registration
Bring your passport everywhere — hotels and some attractions require it. Police registration is handled by hotels for foreign guests automatically.
Quick tips
Always keep a printed copy of your onward ticket for transit entry. Enter through the ports that match your permitted region. Double-check policy updates before departure — rules change frequently.