📋 Entry & Visa
Mutual Visa-Free Agreements (29 Countries)
China has signed visa-exemption deals with 29 countries — here's what each one means for your trip.
🎯 Quick Answer
Yes — citizens of 29 countries can enter China visa-free under mutual agreements. Unlike China's unilateral visa-free policy (which China offers on its own), these are bilateral deals where both countries agree to waive visa requirements for each other's citizens. Stay limits range from 30 to 90 days depending on the agreement.
Below are the 29 countries that have signed mutual visa-exemption agreements with China. Source: 中国政府网.
🌍 Full List of 29 Countries
Citizens holding ordinary passports from these countries can enter China visa-free for short stays:
⏱️ How Long Can You Stay?
Stay durations vary by agreement. Most mutual visa-free deals allow 30 days per entry, but some countries have more generous terms:
🇸🇬 Singapore — up to 90 days per entry
Subjects to the condition that the cumulative stay in China does not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. This is the most generous mutual visa-free arrangement China currently has.
🇦🇪 UAE, 🇶🇦 Qatar, 🇧🇾 Belarus — up to 30 days per entry
Standard 30-day visa-free stay. Extendable under certain conditions.
🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇲🇾 Malaysia, most others — up to 30 days per entry
Standard 30-day visa-free entry for tourism and business visits.
🛂 Unilateral vs Mutual: What's the Difference?
| Unilateral (46 Countries) | Mutual (29 Countries) | |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | China offers it alone | Bilateral agreement |
| Max stay | 30 days | 30–90 days (varies) |
| Reciprocal? | No — China only | Yes — both directions |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my stay beyond the visa-free period?
In most cases, no. You'll need to leave China before your allowed stay expires. If you need more time, the best option is to exit and re-enter (e.g., a short trip to Hong Kong or Macau).
Does the 90/180 rule apply to all mutual agreement countries?
No. The "90 days in any 180-day period" limit specifically applies to Singapore. Other countries have their own terms — most allow 30 days per entry. Always check the specific agreement for your country.
My country is in both lists — which rule applies?
If your country is both on the unilateral visa-free list (46 countries) AND the mutual agreement list (29 countries), the more favorable terms apply. For example, Singapore is on both lists, but the mutual agreement provides a longer stay — so you'd use the mutual agreement terms.
What documents do I need at immigration?
A valid ordinary passport (at least 6 months validity), a return or onward ticket, and proof of accommodation. Immigration may also ask about your travel plans, so it helps to have a rough itinerary ready.