How to Visit China Without a Visa in 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

China’s visa-free policies in 2025 offer a variety of options for travelers, from short stays on transit to extended visits for business and tourism. Whether you’re visiting for a quick stopover, a cruise, or a tour, these exemptions simplify the process, making China more accessible than ever.
Hello China Trip offers customized tours that make the most of these visa-free opportunities. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check your eligibility for visa exemptions and explore our tailor-made packages to China.
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1. 30-Day Visa-Free Access
China has introduced a 30-day visa-free policy for citizens of multiple countries. This policy is available to nationals of countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many European nations, and is valid until the end of 2025. The visa exemption applies to a wide range of countries across the globe, including:
- Europe: France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Greece, Belgium, and more.
- Asia: Japan, South Korea, Brunei.
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.
- Countries with bilateral agreements, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, also enjoy this visa exemption.
Key Benefits:
- Stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa.
- No specific time limit on the policy for countries with mutual agreements like Singapore and Malaysia.
2. 10-Day Visa-Free Transit
For travelers flying through China to a third country, the 10-day visa-free transit policy offers another easy entry option. This policy is available for citizens of 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Cities You Can Visit:
- Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Chengdu, Kunming, Lijiang, Zhangjiajie, Huangshan, and many more.
How to Apply:
- Simply apply for a temporary entry permit at your arrival airport. You must have a ticket for onward travel to a third country.
3. Visa-Free Access in Hong Kong and Macau
Both Hong Kong and Macau offer visa-free entry policies that make them ideal starting points for travelers heading to mainland China. The visa-free policies vary for each region:
- Hong Kong: Citizens of around 160 countries can stay from 7 days to 180 days without a visa. Some of the eligible countries include the United States, Canada, and most European nations.
- Macau: Nationals of 38 countries such as the EU, the US, Canada, and Australia can stay for up to 90 days.
From both Hong Kong and Macau, travelers can easily access mainland China without a visa by taking advantage of the policies outlined below.
4. 6-Day Pearl River Delta Visa Exemption
Travelers arriving from Hong Kong and Macau can explore the Pearl River Delta region without a visa under the 6-day exemption policy. This covers cities such as:
- Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Dongguan, Foshan, Huizhou, and Zhaoqing.
How to Apply:
- You’ll need to join a registered travel group with a certified agency, and the group must consist of 3 to 40 people including the guide.
5. 6-Day Visa Exemption for ASEAN Tour Groups to Guilin
ASEAN nationals can benefit from the 6-day visa exemption if traveling in a tour group to Guilin. This policy applies to citizens from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other ASEAN nations.
Cities You Can Visit:
- Guilin and nearby regions.
How to Apply:
- Join an official group tour organized by a registered agency in China.
6. Shanghai 15-Day Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Passengers
Foreign cruise passengers visiting Shanghai can enjoy a 15-day visa-free stay, not just for the city but also for many coastal regions and provinces like Beijing, Tianjin, Liaoning, and Shandong.
Requirements:
- Must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be registered with a Chinese travel agency.
Suggested Tour:
- 2-Day Shanghai Port Transfer with City & Zhujiajiao Tour.
7. Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free Access
For travelers visiting Hainan Island, the Chinese government offers a 30-day visa-free stay. This is available for citizens from 59 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.
How to Apply:
- Tourists must book their trip through an approved travel agency registered in Hainan Province.
8. APEC Business Travel Card Holders
Holders of the APEC Business Travel Card can enter China for business purposes without needing a visa, staying for up to 60 days.
9. Holders of Aliens’ Residence Permits
Foreign nationals who possess an Aliens’ Residence Permit issued by the People’s Republic of China Public Security Bureau can enter China without a visa.
Eligibility:
- This applies to those with residence permits for study, employment, or those working as resident correspondents in China.
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Testimonials








Winter Tour
We joined the China Winter Tour to Harbin for the Ice Festival. It was spectacular! The snow sculptures were breathtaking, and our guide, Tom , made sure we stayed warm and comfortable. The hotpot dinner was the perfect end to our icy day. Highly recommended for winter lovers!
Sofia
A Memorable Great Wall Experience!
We booked the Great Wall of China Tour with HelloChinaTrip, and it exceeded our expectations! From the moment we started in Beijing, our guide, Emily, made every step of the journey engaging and informative. Visiting both the Mutianyu and Jinshanling sections allowed us to experience the Wall’s grandeur in a relaxed, unhurried way. The hidden historical stories shared by Emily made the tour unforgettable. We also enjoyed delicious local meals along the way, thanks to their excellent recommendations. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Alexandra
A Dream Family Vacation!
Our Family Tour with HelloChinaTrip was phenomenal! We explored Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou over 10 days, and everything was perfectly organized. Special thanks to our guide, Lily , who was patient and fantastic with the kids, keeping them entertained and engaged with fascinating stories. The itinerary was a perfect mix of history, culture, and fun activities. We especially loved the boat ride on West Lake. This trip created lasting family memories we’ll cherish forever!
Oliver
Incredible Silk Road Adventure
We embarked on a 12-day Silk Road Tour, and every moment was magical. From Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves to Kashgar’s bustling markets, the journey was packed with highlights. Our guide, Michael , was passionate and knowledgeable, providing insights that brought ancient history to life. The accommodations were excellent, and the transportation was seamless. This tour gave us a profound appreciation for China’s rich cultural tapestry. Highly recommend!
Nadia
Yangtze River Cruise – Truly Unforgettable!
The Yangtze River Cruise with HelloChinaTrip was an experience we’ll never forget. The 5-day journey aboard the luxury vessel was comfortable and well-planned. Our guide, Jason, shared stories about the Three Gorges that added depth to the stunning scenery. The onboard activities and meals were excellent, and every detail was taken care of. This was the highlight of our trip to China!
Liam K
A Magical Panda Tour!
Our Panda Tour in Chengdu was everything we hoped for! We visited the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, and our guide, Sophia , provided fascinating insights into panda conservation efforts. Watching the pandas play and feed was heartwarming. The tour also included some wonderful stops at local temples and markets. An unforgettable day that connected us deeply with China’s wildlife and culture.
Mariko
Tibet Tour
Our 8-day Tibet Tour with HelloChinaTrip was an extraordinary journey. From the Potala Palace to the stunning Namtso Lake, every site was awe-inspiring. Our guide, Tenzin , was knowledgeable and deeply connected to his culture, sharing stories that made our visit to Tibet incredibly personal. The logistics were seamless, and we felt well taken care of in this remote region. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Samuel
Nature Tour of Guilin
Our nature tour through Guilin and Yangshuo was beyond beautiful. The Li River cruise and the hike through the Longji Rice Terraces were the highlights. Our guide, Leo , knew every hidden viewpoint and local story. The stunning landscapes and warm hospitality made this an unforgettable trip.
Isabella

Winter Tour
We joined the China Winter Tour to Harbin for the Ice Festival. It was spectacular! The snow sculptures were breathtaking, and our guide, Tom , made sure we stayed warm and comfortable. The hotpot dinner was the perfect end to our icy day. Highly recommended for winter lovers!
Sofia

A Memorable Great Wall Experience!
We booked the Great Wall of China Tour with HelloChinaTrip, and it exceeded our expectations! From the moment we started in Beijing, our guide, Emily, made every step of the journey engaging and informative. Visiting both the Mutianyu and Jinshanling sections allowed us to experience the Wall’s grandeur in a relaxed, unhurried way. The hidden historical stories shared by Emily made the tour unforgettable. We also enjoyed delicious local meals along the way, thanks to their excellent recommendations. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Alexandra

A Dream Family Vacation!
Our Family Tour with HelloChinaTrip was phenomenal! We explored Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou over 10 days, and everything was perfectly organized. Special thanks to our guide, Lily , who was patient and fantastic with the kids, keeping them entertained and engaged with fascinating stories. The itinerary was a perfect mix of history, culture, and fun activities. We especially loved the boat ride on West Lake. This trip created lasting family memories we’ll cherish forever!
Oliver

Incredible Silk Road Adventure
We embarked on a 12-day Silk Road Tour, and every moment was magical. From Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves to Kashgar’s bustling markets, the journey was packed with highlights. Our guide, Michael , was passionate and knowledgeable, providing insights that brought ancient history to life. The accommodations were excellent, and the transportation was seamless. This tour gave us a profound appreciation for China’s rich cultural tapestry. Highly recommend!
Nadia

Yangtze River Cruise – Truly Unforgettable!
The Yangtze River Cruise with HelloChinaTrip was an experience we’ll never forget. The 5-day journey aboard the luxury vessel was comfortable and well-planned. Our guide, Jason, shared stories about the Three Gorges that added depth to the stunning scenery. The onboard activities and meals were excellent, and every detail was taken care of. This was the highlight of our trip to China!
Liam K

A Magical Panda Tour!
Our Panda Tour in Chengdu was everything we hoped for! We visited the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, and our guide, Sophia , provided fascinating insights into panda conservation efforts. Watching the pandas play and feed was heartwarming. The tour also included some wonderful stops at local temples and markets. An unforgettable day that connected us deeply with China’s wildlife and culture.
Mariko

Tibet Tour
Our 8-day Tibet Tour with HelloChinaTrip was an extraordinary journey. From the Potala Palace to the stunning Namtso Lake, every site was awe-inspiring. Our guide, Tenzin , was knowledgeable and deeply connected to his culture, sharing stories that made our visit to Tibet incredibly personal. The logistics were seamless, and we felt well taken care of in this remote region. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Samuel

Nature Tour of Guilin
Our nature tour through Guilin and Yangshuo was beyond beautiful. The Li River cruise and the hike through the Longji Rice Terraces were the highlights. Our guide, Leo , knew every hidden viewpoint and local story. The stunning landscapes and warm hospitality made this an unforgettable trip.