Quick Answer
Can UK and Ireland citizens visit China visa-free?
✅ YES! Both UK and Ireland are on China's unilateral visa-free list.
• UK Citizens: 30 days visa-free (Valid through December 31, 2026)
• Ireland Citizens: 30 days visa-free (Valid through December 31, 2026)
Requirements
To enter China visa-free, you must:
✅ Hold a valid UK or Ireland passport
✅ Travel for business, tourism, family visit, or exchange
✅ Stay for 30 days or less
✅ No prior visa violations
What You DON't Need
❌ No visa application
❌ No visa fee
❌ No invitation letter
❌ No hotel booking proof (at entry)
Entry Process
- Arrival - Follow "Arrivals"
- Immigration - Present passport and arrival card
- Fingerprint Collection - Required for first-time visitors
- Baggage & Customs - Collect luggage
30-Day Limit Explained
• Day 1 = Your arrival day
• Day 30 = Your last day in China
• You must depart by end of Day 30
Can I Extend?
No extensions for visa-free entry. You must exit and re-enter or apply for a visa.
Multiple Entries
Yes, you can enter multiple times!
Each entry gives you 30 days. No limit on number of entries.
Hong Kong & Macau
• Hong Kong and Macau are NOT counted as China for the 30-day limit.
• You can go to HK/Macau and re-enter China for another 30 days.
What If I Need More Than 30 Days?
- Exit and Re-enter: Leave China, wait 24 hours, re-enter.
- Apply for Tourist Visa: L Visa for 30, 60, or 90 days.
- 10-Year Visa (UK Only): Up to 60 days per visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need travel insurance?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended.
Q: What happens if I overstay?
Fines of 500 RMB per day (up to 10,000 RMB) and future visa issues.
Last Updated: March 2026 | Policy valid through December 31, 2026