China Visa-Free Countries 2026: The Ultimate Continent-by-Continent Guide

Published: 2026-02-18T13:45+05:30 (IST)

By Xavio

Explore China with ease! Here's a visual guide to countries with visa-free access to China in 2026, grouped by continent for stress-free travel planning.

China's China visa-free policies offer convenient short-term entry for citizens from dozens of countries, divided into temporary (mostly until December 31, 2026) and permanent categories. To make it easier to navigate, here is a continent-based segregation of the eligible nations, based on the latest arrangements as of February 2026.

This grouping covers the main unilateral/temporary 30-day visa-free list (48 countries, including recent additions like Canada and the UK from February 17, 2026), plus the permanent standard 30-day exemptions (15 countries) and the 30-day with 90/180 cumulative limit (9 countries). Note: Russia has its own temporary window until September 14, 2026.

Europe (Largest Group – Mostly Temporary Until Dec 31, 2026)

Europe dominates the list with strong coverage for Schengen and non-Schengen nations: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom (effective Feb 17, 2026).

Asia (Mix of Temporary and Permanent)

Asia includes both large economies and smaller partners: Japan, South Korea (temporary); Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, United Arab Emirates (permanent/standard); Qatar, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan (90/180 cumulative); Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia (temporary).

Oceania (Primarily Temporary Until Dec 31, 2026)

Australia and New Zealand lead this small but key group for Pacific access: Australia, New Zealand (temporary); Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands (permanent/standard).

South America (Temporary Until Dec 31, 2026)

South American countries benefit from recent expansions for business and tourism: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Uruguay.

North America & Caribbean (Temporary and Permanent Mix)

Canada's recent inclusion boosts this region: Canada (effective Feb 17, 2026, temporary); Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Ecuador (permanent/standard or 90/180); United States (often under separate transit rules, not full 30-day in all lists).

Africa & Other Regions

Limited direct entries, but some permanent options: Serbia (Europe/Balkans, but sometimes grouped broadly), Seychelles, Mauritius (permanent/standard in select sources); Maldives (permanent/standard, Asia/Indian Ocean).

These exemptions apply to ordinary passports for purposes like tourism, business, family visits, or transit (up to 30 days per entry). Multiple entries are usually allowed, but always carry proof of onward travel and funds. Indian passport holders are not included in these lists and typically require a visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many countries total are visa-free for China in 2026?

Around 70–80 across all categories (temporary + permanent), with Europe having the most.

Q: Are there differences between temporary and permanent exemptions?

Temporary ones (most of the 48+) expire Dec 31, 2026 (or Sep for Russia), while permanent ones have no end date.

Q: Does this include transit-only rules?

Separate 240-hour transit visa-free exists for 55+ countries at specific ports — check if your itinerary qualifies.

Q: What about Indian travelers?

Visa required for most visits; limited transit exemptions may apply.

Q: Where to confirm official status?

Always refer to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announcements.

For official visa-free details and updates, visit the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa exemption policies.

For the latest China entry rules, visa guides, and tips tailored for Indian applicants from Kerala, explore our dedicated Country based immigration section.