What does visa-free entry cover?
Until 31 December 2026, British citizens can enter mainland China without a visa and stay up to 30 days for:
- tourism and sightseeing
- business meetings and trade fairs
- visiting family and friends
- exchange visits
- transit
You need a passport valid for your whole stay, and you may be asked for your return ticket and accommodation details at the border.
When do British citizens still need a visa?
- Staying longer than 30 days
- Working, studying or reporting as a journalist
- Joining family to live in China
- Trips that continue after 31 December 2026
See the China visa types to find the right one.
What if I’m not British?
The China visa-free for British citizens policy only applies to British citizen passports. Other nationalities living in the UK may have their own visa-free arrangements, or may need a visa. Call us and we’ll check.
Should I get a visa anyway?
If you travel to China often, plan trips into 2027, or want certainty for an important business trip, a multiple entry visa can still make sense. We’ll tell you honestly if you don’t need one.