Quick Answer
Can EU citizens visit China visa-free?
✅ YES! Most EU citizens are eligible for China's 30-day visa-free policy.
Eligible EU Countries (40 Countries)
Western Europe
• Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Switzerland
• Ireland, United Kingdom
• Monaco
Northern Europe
• Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden
Southern Europe
• Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain
Eastern Europe
• Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia
• Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania
• Ukraine, Belarus, Russia
Requirements
✅ Valid passport from eligible country (3+ months validity)
✅ Travel for tourism, business, family visit, or exchange
✅ Stay 30 days or less per visit
✅ No prior visa violations
What You DON't Need
❌ No visa application
❌ No visa fee (save €100-150!)
❌ No invitation letter for tourism
❌ No hotel booking proof at entry
30-Day Limit Rules
How Days Are Counted
• Day 1 = Arrival day
• Day 30 = Last day in China
• Must depart by end of Day 30
Extending Your Stay
No extensions for visa-free entry. Options:
- Exit to Hong Kong/Macau, re-enter for another 30 days
- Apply for tourist visa extension while in China
Multiple Entries
• ✅ Unlimited entries during policy period
• ✅ 30 days per entry
• ✅ Must exit between entries
Hong Kong & Macau Strategy
Hong Kong and Macau are NOT part of mainland China for the 30-day limit.
Popular visa run route:
• Days 1-29: Mainland China
• Day 30: Take train/ferry to Hong Kong
• Day 31-32: Explore Hong Kong
• Day 33: Re-enter mainland China for another 30 days
Ferry options:
• Shenzhen → Hong Kong (1 hour)
• Zhuhai → Macau (via Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge)
• Shanghai → Osaka/Tokyo → Shanghai (for longer trips)
Important Notes
Tibet Travel
• Requires Tibet Travel Permit
• Must book through licensed tour operator
• Allow 2-4 weeks for permit
• Visa-free entry does NOT exempt you from this requirement
Border Areas
Some areas require additional permits:
• Xinjiang border regions
• Tibet
• Some Yunnan border areas
Overstaying
Consequences:
• Fine: 500 RMB/day (up to 10,000 RMB)
• Possible detention
• Future visa applications affected
Recommended Entry Airports for EU Travelers
Beijing (PEK): Direct flights from London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam
Shanghai (PVG): Direct flights from London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam
Guangzhou (CAN): Direct flights from London, Paris
Hong Kong (HKG): Most EU capitals
Pro tip: Fly to Hong Kong first, then enter mainland China via high-speed rail. Often cheaper and more flexible!
If You Need More Than 30 Days
Option 1: Visa Run
Exit to HK/Macau or any other country, re-enter.
Option 2: Tourist Visa (L Visa)
• Apply at Chinese Embassy
• Valid for 30, 60, or 90 days
• Cost: €100-150
Option 3: Multiple-Entry Visa
• 1-year or 10-year options
• 60-90 days per visit
• Good for frequent travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need travel insurance?
Not required, but highly recommended. Healthcare can be expensive for foreigners.
Q: Can I work remotely while in China?
Gray area. Short-term remote work (emails, calls) is generally fine. Formal remote work may require proper visa.
Q: What if my passport expires in 2 months?
You need at least 3 months validity. Renew your passport before traveling.
Q: Can I bring medication?
Some medications require documentation. Check Chinese embassy website for restricted items.
Next Steps
☐ Check passport validity
☐ Book flights
☐ Get travel insurance
☐ Download Alipay app
☐ Plan your itinerary
Last Updated: March 2026 | Policy valid through December 31, 2026