Visa & Entry Policy 2026 | Start China Travel

China Entry Policy 2026

The definitive digital survival guide. Whether you are visa-free or need a standard L-Visa, we’ve got you covered.

VISA_FREE_CHECKER_2026

Citizens of these countries hold Visa-Free Access (15/30 Days):

🇩🇪 Germany
🇫🇷 France
🇮🇹 Italy
🇪🇸 Spain
🇦🇺 Australia
🇲🇾 Malaysia
…and 20+ more

144-Hour Transit

Layover in China? Stay up to 6 days without a visa if flying to a third country.

See Rules →

Standard Visa (L)

For most travelers. We provide the hotel booking confirmation needed for application.

See Checklist →

Police Registration

Mandatory for Airbnb guests. Register with local police within 24 hours.

How to Register →

Track A: 144-Hour Transit

NO VISA NEEDED

The “Golden Rule”: You must fly A → China → C (Third Region). You cannot return to A.

A
Origin
B
China
C
Third Region
💡 HK & Macau count as “Third Regions”. USA->Shanghai->HK is valid.

Track B: Standard L-Visa

APPLICATION REQUIRED

If you don’t qualify for exemptions, you need an L-Visa. Here is how we help:

  • 1

    Book Flights & Hotels

    Consulates require proof of entry/exit and accommodation.

    Get Refundable Hotel Proof →
  • 2

    Submit COVA Form

    Fill out the application online at the official Chinese Visa center website.

  • 3

    Submit to Consulate

    Bring your passport, photo, and our booking confirmations.

Digital Survival Tip

Before you fly, make sure your VPN (or eSIM) is installed. You’ll need it to access Google/Gmail to retrieve your visa documents or hotel bookings upon arrival.

Visa Sorted? Now Book Your Trip.

High-Speed Trains

Skip the confusing 12306. Official English E-Tickets with no Chinese number needed.

Search Tickets

Foreigner Hotels

Don’t get rejected at check-in. Find hotels guaranteed to accept international guests.

Find Hotels

Domestic Flights

Connect to major hubs like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen easily.

Check Flights

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Use our digital survival tools to book strictly vetted, foreigner-friendly services.

High-Speed Trains

Official E-Tickets. No Chinese phone number required.

Book Train

Foreigner Hotels

Curated list of hotels guaranteed to accept international guests.

Find Hotel

Domestic Flights

Connect to major hubs like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen.

Check Flights