In short: ordinary-passport holders from about 50 countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days until 31 December 2026, and several more countries have mutual visa exemptions. Travellers from 57 countries can stay up to 10 days visa-free when transiting to a third country. A checkup with a few days of travel usually fits within these stays. Longer treatment, or a nationality outside these lists, needs a visa, supported by a hospital invitation letter.
The three ways to enter without a visa
| Route | Who | Stay | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-day visa-free entry (unilateral) | About 50 countries, mainly in Europe, plus others such as Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Canada (added February 2026) | Up to 30 days | For tourism, business, visiting family or friends, exchanges or transit; runs until 31 December 2026 |
| Mutual visa exemption | Countries with a bilateral agreement, including Singapore, Thailand, the UAE and Qatar | Usually up to 30 days per visit | Set by each agreement |
| 240-hour visa-free transit | 57 countries (Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam added August 2026) | Up to 10 days | Onward ticket to a third country or region; entry and exit through any of 65 designated ports; stay within the permitted provinces |
Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain were added to the visa-free list on a trial basis from June 2025; check whether it still applies on your travel date. US passport holders are not on the 30-day list but can use 240-hour transit.
Does a medical trip count?
The visa-free routes are defined by nationality, length of stay and the purposes listed above, not by a separate medical category. A health checkup combined with a few days of travel usually fits within a 30-day visa-free stay. If treatment is the main purpose of the trip, or it will take longer than the visa-free period, apply for a visa before you travel. We check the right route for your nationality and plan.
When you need a visa
- Nationalities not covered, for example Bangladesh, India and Pakistan: apply at the Chinese embassy or visa centre. Bangladesh has a medical visa "green channel" with same-day visas for urgent cases; see our Bangladesh guide.
- Longer treatment beyond 30 days: apply for a visa that covers the full stay; the embassy decides the type.
- Invitation letter: the hospital, or your coordinator on its behalf, provides a letter stating the appointment or treatment, for your application.
At the border
- A passport valid for at least six months is the safe standard.
- Carry your return or onward ticket and your hotel or appointment details.
- Fill in the arrival card on paper at the airport or online in advance. More in Before you arrive.
Frequently asked questions
Can I extend a visa-free stay if treatment takes longer?
Does the 240-hour transit cover Kunming and Chongqing?
Can my family come visa-free too?
Sources: China National Immigration Administration via Shanghai Municipal Government, 240-hour visa-free transit and August 2026 update; China Briefing, visa-free travel guide; Gulf News, Gulf visa waiver. Always confirm with the Chinese embassy or the National Immigration Administration before you travel.