Quick Answer
Japan & South Korea citizens can enter China visa-free for up to 15 days. This policy was expanded in late 2024 and remains valid throughout 2026. For longer stays, work, or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa at a Chinese embassy or consulate.
Visa-Free Entry Requirements
For Japanese Citizens
✅ Eligibility:
• Valid Japanese passport (at least 6 months validity recommended)
• Tourism, business meeting, or visiting family/friends
• Stay up to 15 days
• No extension allowed on visa-free stay
✅ What You Need:
• Return or onward ticket (recommended)
• Hotel reservation or invitation letter
• Sufficient funds for your stay
❌ Visa-Free Does NOT Cover:
• Work or employment
• Long-term study
• Journalism activities
• Government official visits
For South Korean Citizens
✅ Eligibility:
• Valid South Korean passport (at least 6 months validity recommended)
• Tourism, business meeting, or visiting family/friends
• Stay up to 15 days
• No extension allowed on visa-free stay
✅ Required Documents:
• Return or onward ticket (recommended)
• Accommodation proof
• Sufficient financial means
15-Day Limit Explained
How Is It Calculated?
The 15-day period starts from your date of entry (Day 1) and ends at midnight on Day 15. You must leave China before or on Day 15.
Example:
• Enter: March 1st
• Must leave by: March 15th (before midnight)
⚠️ Overstay Consequences
Overstaying even one day can result in:
• Fines (500-10,000 RMB per day)
• Detention
• Deportation at your own expense
• Entry ban (1-5 years)
• Black mark on your record affecting future visas
If you need more time: Exit China before Day 15 and re-enter (Hong Kong/Macau strategy works) or apply for a proper visa in advance.
Hong Kong & Macau Exit Strategy
The Visa Run Method
Many travelers extend their China experience by doing a "visa run" to Hong Kong or Macau:
- Before Day 15: Exit mainland China to Hong Kong or Macau
- Stay in HK/Macau: 1 night minimum (recommended)
- Re-enter China: Get a fresh 15-day visa-free period
Important Notes:
• This is legal but should not be abused
• Border officials may question frequent re-entries
• Recommended maximum: 2-3 consecutive visa-free entries
• For longer stays, apply for a proper visa
Hong Kong to Mainland China Entry Points:
Lo Wu/Luohu: 30-60 min wait, Best for Shenzhen, Guangzhou
Futian: 20-40 min wait, Best for Shenzhen CBD
Shenzhen Bay: 15-30 min wait, Less crowded
West Kowloon HSR: 20-30 min wait, High-speed rail users
When You Need a Visa
Apply for a Visa If:
• Your stay exceeds 15 days
• You are working or doing business negotiations
• You are studying (short-term or long-term)
• You are a journalist or media professional
• You plan multiple consecutive visa-free entries (consular warning)
Visa Types:
L Visa (Tourism): 30-90 days
M Visa (Business): 30-180 days
X Visa (Study): Duration of study
Z Visa (Work): 30 days entry, then residence permit
Where to Apply:
Japan:
• Chinese Embassy in Tokyo
• Consulates in Osaka, Nagoya, Sapporo, Fukuoka, Niigata, Naha
South Korea:
• Chinese Embassy in Seoul
• Consulates in Busan, Gwangju, Jeju
Processing Time:
• Standard: 4-5 working days
• Express: 2-3 working days (extra fee)
• Same-day: Available at some consulates (highest fee)
Entry Procedures
At the Airport
- Immigration Form: Fill out the arrival card (paper or electronic)
- Queue: Join the "Foreigners" line
- Documents: Present passport and arrival card
- Fingerprint: May be required (10 fingerprints)
- Photo: Digital photo taken
- Stamp: Get entry stamp with 15-day permit
Automated Clearance
Japan and Korea citizens can now use automated border gates at major Chinese airports:
• Beijing Capital (PEK)
• Shanghai Pudong (PVG)
• Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN)
• Shenzhen Bao'an (SZX)
Requirements:
• Register at the e-gate enrollment center
• Provide fingerprints and facial scan
• Valid for 2 years
Practical Tips
Money Matters
• Bring some cash (RMB or USD)
• International cards accepted at hotels and malls
• Download Alipay or WeChat Pay for local payments
• ATMs widely available
Communication
• Download a translation app (Google Translate, Baidu Translate)
• Get a Chinese SIM card or eSIM at the airport
• Hotels can help with local calls
Emergency Contacts
• Japan Embassy Beijing: +86-10-6532-2361
• Korea Embassy Beijing: +86-10-8531-0700
• China Emergency: 110 (Police), 120 (Ambulance)
FAQ
Can I work remotely for my Japanese/Korean company while in China?
Technically, visa-free entry does not permit any "work." However, checking emails and attending video calls for your overseas employer is generally tolerated. Do not meet clients or conduct negotiations.
Can I extend my 15-day stay?
No. Visa-free stays cannot be extended. You must leave China and re-enter for a new 15-day period, or apply for a visa in advance.
What if I lose my passport?
Report to local police immediately, then contact your embassy. They will issue an emergency travel document. You will need to apply for an exit visa from Chinese authorities.
Can I visit Tibet on visa-free entry?
No. Tibet requires a special Tibet Travel Permit, which requires a full Chinese visa and organized tour. Apply for an L Visa if you plan to visit Tibet.
Can I use visa-free entry for business meetings?
Yes, business meetings and negotiations are acceptable under visa-free entry. However, actual work (receiving Chinese salary, signing contracts) requires an M Visa.
How many times can I enter visa-free?
There is no official limit, but border officials may question frequent entries. If you need to stay longer, apply for a proper visa.
Summary Checklist
✅ Japanese or South Korean passport with 6+ months validity
✅ Return/onward ticket recommended
✅ Hotel booking or invitation letter
✅ Sufficient funds (cash/cards)
✅ Stay within 15 days
✅ No work or study activities
✅ Download Alipay/WeChat Pay
✅ Get Chinese SIM or eSIM
✅ Have embassy contact info ready
Last Updated: March 11, 2026
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify current requirements with the Chinese embassy or consulate nearest you before traveling.