How the 30-Day Visa-Free Policy Works
Plan My Trip →From 2026, UK citizens can enjoy visa-free entry to China for stays of up to 30 days under the expanded visa-free policy. This guide explains who qualifies, what you need to prepare, and how to make the most of your trip.
China expanded its visa-free policy to include UK citizens (and citizens of many other countries) for ordinary passport holders, allowing visa-free entry for tourism, business, family visits, and exchange purposes for up to 30 days. This applies to travel from a third country as well as directly from the UK.
Holders of valid UK ordinary passports qualify. The policy is for short stays (up to 30 days) for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, and cultural exchange. Those planning longer stays or work/study must apply for the appropriate visa.
Enter with a passport valid for at least 6 months, with blank pages. Complete the customs declaration and provide your accommodation details. Have proof of your return ticket and itinerary handy, though these are usually not checked for short tourism stays.
Thirty days is enough for a comprehensive tour: Beijing and Xi'an (7 days), the Yangtze or Chengdu and western Sichuan (5-7 days), Yunnan (5-7 days), and the Silk Road (7-10 days). A travel agency can design an itinerary that uses your visa-free window efficiently.
The visa-free stay cannot normally be extended for tourism. If you need more time, leave China (e.g., a short trip to Hong Kong, Macau, or a neighboring country) and re-enter to restart the 30-day period, or apply for a proper visa before your trip.
Rules can change — always check the latest official information from the Chinese Embassy or consulate before booking. Even with visa-free entry, consider travel insurance, and register your accommodation as required by law.