Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality, passport type, purpose of travel, and length of stay. Some travelers qualify for visa-free entry, while others must obtain a visa before departure. Always check the latest entry requirements before traveling.
No. Visa-free entry is available only to eligible travelers covered by China's unilateral visa-free policies, bilateral agreements, or visa-free transit arrangements. Travelers who do not qualify must obtain the appropriate visa.
Eligible travelers may stay for up to 30 days under certain general visa-free entry policies. Travelers who qualify for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy may stay for up to 10 days in designated areas, subject to the applicable conditions.
China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows eligible travelers from designated countries to transit through China without a visa for up to 10 days. Travelers must meet nationality, passport, onward-ticket, route, and permitted-area requirements.
Eligibility depends on holding an ordinary passport from an eligible country and meeting the applicable transit requirements. Travelers must have confirmed onward travel to a third country or region and follow the permitted transit route. Check the latest official list before departure.
Yes. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is an eligible entry point for China's 24-hour and 240-hour visa-free transit arrangements. Eligibility depends on your nationality, itinerary, travel documents, and compliance with the relevant policy.
You may leave the airport's restricted transit area only if you have the necessary authorization to enter mainland China. Depending on your circumstances, you may need a visa or a temporary entry permit. Confirm your eligibility with immigration authorities before leaving the transit area.
Eligible travelers may transit through China without a visa for up to 24 hours if they meet the applicable conditions. Travelers who remain in the designated restricted transit area may qualify without a separate entry permit, while leaving that area generally requires temporary entry authorization.
Not necessarily. The itinerary must meet China's third-country or region transit requirements. A journey between China and the same country or region may not qualify. Verify your complete route and onward ticket before traveling.
No. General short-term visa-free entry and visa-free transit arrangements do not authorize employment. Travelers intending to work must obtain the appropriate visa and authorization before beginning work.
Visa-free entry arrangements do not generally authorize study. If you intend to study in China, check the applicable visa category and authorization requirements before traveling.
You should prepare a valid passport, the required visa or evidence of visa-free eligibility, and confirmed onward travel documents when applicable. Immigration officers may also request accommodation details, an invitation letter, or other supporting documents.
Passport validity requirements depend on your visa, exemption arrangement, and individual circumstances. Check the applicable requirements before departure and ensure that your passport is in good condition and has any required blank pages.
An onward ticket is particularly important for travelers using visa-free transit arrangements. You should have a confirmed itinerary showing your destination and travel dates. Other travelers may also be asked to provide return or onward travel information.
Accommodation details may be requested during immigration inspection. It is advisable to keep your hotel reservation, accommodation address, or host's contact information accessible throughout your journey.
An invitation letter may be required or useful depending on the purpose of your visit. Business travelers and people visiting family or friends may need supporting documentation. Check the requirements for your specific visa category or entry arrangement.
Foreign nationals should check the current arrival-card requirements and applicable exemptions before departure. China provides an official online service for arrival-card information. Follow the latest instructions issued by the National Immigration Administration.
China's National Immigration Administration provides an online channel for foreign travelers to submit arrival-card information. Check the official service for current procedures and keep any relevant confirmation or reference details accessible during your journey.
Follow the international arrivals signs to immigration or the appropriate transfer area. Complete any required arrival formalities, present your travel documents, and follow the instructions of immigration officers. If entering China, collect your checked baggage when applicable and proceed through customs.
Be prepared to present your passport, visa or proof of visa-free eligibility, and onward ticket where relevant. Officers may also request accommodation information, an invitation letter, or additional evidence supporting the purpose of your visit.
Yes. Meeting the general requirements of a visa-free policy does not automatically guarantee admission. Immigration officers assess each traveler according to the applicable entry rules and may request supporting documents.
Medication is subject to China's import and customs regulations, and controlled substances may face additional restrictions. Keep medicines in their original packaging where possible and carry your prescription or supporting medical documentation. Check the rules for your specific medication before departure.
Meat, fresh produce, plants, seeds, and animal products are subject to strict import restrictions, and some items are prohibited. Check China's current customs requirements before packing food or agricultural products.
You may need to declare cash or certain regulated goods if they meet applicable declaration requirements. Check the current official customs thresholds and declaration procedures before traveling, and declare items whenever required.
Consult China's National Immigration Administration for immigration and transit rules and the Chinese Visa Application Service Center for visa information. You should also confirm document requirements with your airline before departure, as entry policies can change.