Quick Answer
Yes! Australian and New Zealand citizens can visit China visa-free for up to 15 days through the unilateral visa-free policy effective from July 1, 2024. This policy has been extended through 2025 and continues into 2026.
Visa-Free Policy Summary:
• Australia: 15 days visa-free (Active)
• New Zealand: 15 days visa-free (Active)
Requirements for Visa-Free Entry
✅ You MUST Have:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Confirmed hotel booking or invitation letter
- Completed arrival card (provided on flight)
❌ You Do NOT Need:
- Visa application
- Visa fee payment
- Embassy visit
- Travel agency invitation
Who Qualifies?
This visa-free policy applies to:
- Australian citizens with ordinary passports
- New Zealand citizens with ordinary passports
- Tourists, business visitors, and family visitors
- Transit passengers wanting to explore China
Does NOT apply to:
- Diplomatic/official passport holders
- Those working or studying in China
- Journalists on assignment
- Those visiting for more than 15 days
15-Day Limit Explained
The 15-day limit is calculated from 00:00 of the day after entry. Here is what you need to know:
Example Calculation
If you enter on March 1st:
- Day 1 starts: March 2nd
- Must exit by: March 16th (23:59)
If you enter on March 15th:
- Day 1 starts: March 16th
- Must exit by: March 30th (23:59)
Important Rules
- Day 1 starts the day AFTER you arrive
- Overstaying results in fines and potential travel bans
- You CANNOT extend the 15-day limit while in China
- Must exit China or obtain proper visa before day 16
Hong Kong & Macau Strategy
The "Visa Run" Option
If you want to stay longer than 15 days:
- Exit to Hong Kong or Macau (both have separate immigration from mainland China)
- Stay 1+ nights in HK/Macau
- Re-enter mainland China for another 15 days
The route:
Mainland China (15 days) → Hong Kong/Macau → Mainland China (15 days)
Hong Kong Entry Requirements
- Australians: 90 days visa-free
- New Zealanders: 90 days visa-free
- No additional visa needed
Macau Entry Requirements
- Australians: 30 days visa-free
- New Zealanders: 30 days visa-free
- No additional visa needed
Entry Ports & Airports
Major International Airports
Beijing Capital (PEK) — Beijing
Shanghai Pudong (PVG) — Shanghai
Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) — Guangzhou
Chengdu Tianfu (TFU) — Chengdu
Shenzhen Baoan (SZX) — Shenzhen
Xian Xianyang (XIY) — Xian
Land Border Crossings
- Hong Kong-Shenzhen: Lo Wu, Futian Checkpoint
- Macau-Zhuhai: Gongbei Port, Hengqin Port
- Vietnam-China: Hekou, Dongxing
Extending Your Stay
If you need more than 15 days, apply for a proper visa:
L Visa (Tourist)
- Single entry: 30-90 days
- Double entry: 30 days each
- Cost: ~$140 AUD for Australians
Where to Apply
- Chinese Embassy in Canberra
- Chinese Consulate in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth
- Chinese Embassy in Wellington (for NZ citizens)
- Hong Kong — can apply at the Commissioners Office
Required Documents
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Passport photo
- Flight itinerary
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Bank statements (3 months)
- Employment letter (if applicable)
Common Questions
Can I visit Tibet?
No, Tibet requires a special Tibet Travel Permit regardless of visa status. You must book through a licensed tour agency.
Can I work on the visa-free entry?
No, employment is strictly prohibited. Business meetings are allowed, but paid work requires a Z visa.
What if my passport expires in 5 months?
You need a new passport. China requires 6 months validity beyond your stay.
Can I enter multiple times?
Yes! Each entry gives you 15 days. You can exit and re-enter as many times as you want within the policy period.
Does this apply to Hong Kong?
No, Hong Kong has its own immigration. Australians get 90 days visa-free for Hong Kong separately.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
- Print your hotel confirmation — Immigration may ask for proof
- Download WeChat — Used for everything in China
- Have return ticket ready — May be checked at airline check-in
- Know your first destination — Fill arrival card correctly
- Bring a pen — For completing arrival card on the plane
Summary
Visa-Free: 15 days for AU/NZ citizens
Extension: Not possible within China
Hong Kong Run: Exit → Re-enter for another 15 days
Longer Stay: Apply for L visa before travel
Cost: Free (visa-free) or ~$140 AUD (L visa)
Last Updated: March 11, 2026
Planning your China trip? Check out our Beijing Travel Guide and Shanghai Travel Guide for detailed itineraries!