China — Visa and entry requirements 2026

Entry rules and official application

Rules checked on 23 October 2026

Passport and purpose covered: Ordinary French passport · tourism
Entry route: Visa exemption
Maximum short stay: 30 days

The stay shown is a maximum under the stated route. A shorter stay may be granted.

Other passports and travel purposes

This section covers the sources and rules stated below; it does not certify every personal circumstance.
Passport and purpose covered	Entry route	Maximum short stay	Check the official visa service
Argentina	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
Australia	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
Brazil	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
Canada	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
France	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
Germany	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
Japan	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
South Korea	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
Russia	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service
United Kingdom	Visa exemption	30 days	Check the official visa service

Check your own nationality, passport type, residence, route and travel dates with the official authority. The French-passport summary is not an eligibility decision for another nationality.

Visa and entry requirements

The current unilateral ordinary-passport exemption permits up to 30 days for the listed purposes and is scheduled to run until 31 December 2026. Work, study and journalism require the appropriate permission.

Prepare your documents

Use the official checklist for passport validity, permitted entry points, accommodation, funds, onward travel and insurance where required. Requirements for minors, emergency passports and dual nationals can differ.

Visa validity and authorised stay

The validity of a visa or travel authorisation is the period in which it can be used. The length of each visit and the number of entries are separate conditions. Follow the admission record issued at the border.

Application, payment and decision

Choose the category matching the actual purpose of travel. Apply through the government portal or its appointed provider, check the fee before paying, and allow for requests for additional documents. Approval and entry are decided by the competent authorities.

Work, study and residence

A tourist exemption or visitor visa does not automatically authorise employment, long-term study or residence. Check the appropriate permission before starting these activities.

Extension and change of status

Apply to the competent authority before your current permission expires. An extension, change of status or re-entry is subject to its own conditions; submitting a request does not by itself establish a right to remain.