Since October 26, 2023, travelers are not required to undergo a COVID test before traveling to China, nor will they need to complete a health form. This means that China no longer has any COVID-related restrictions for travelers.
Travel to China has become easier. However, foreign travelers must register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. This formality can be taken care of by hotels for their guests.
Do You Need a Visa to Travel to China?
From December 1, 2023, to November 30, 2024, China has decided to waive the visa requirement for travelers from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain. This waiver is valid for one year. Travelers from these countries can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa. This applies to those visiting China for tourism, business purposes, family visits, or transits.
Please note that knowing the number of entries authorized for the territory is essential, especially if you plan to visit destinations such as Hong Kong or Macau.
It is strongly advised for travelers going to Hong Kong and then mainland China to obtain a visa for China before their departure.
Please note that the Chinese visa does not allow direct entry into Tibet. Tibet is subject to specific regulations.
Some international stopovers do not require a visa. Therefore, it can benefit from 24-hour, 72-hour, or 144-hour visa-free transit at certain airports. However, this facility is only reserved for passengers in transit to a third country with a confirmed ticket and, if applicable, a visa for that country.
A visa exemption for Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau is applied. These territories are not considered part of China in terms of visas; therefore, travelers do not need a visa to enter for stays of less than 90 days. However, if you plan to take a round trip from China to Hong Kong and back, you will need a 2-entry Chinese visa.
The price of the Chinese visa has decreased since November 12, 2023, and is currently priced at €111, down from €126.