Direct answer: Yes — in defined situations you can enter China without a visa, most commonly under a mutual visa-exemption agreement, China’s unilateral visa-free policy, or the 240-hour visa-free transit scheme. But the permitted stay is short, and you cannot work, study or report as a journalist without the right visa.

What the Law Says

Article 22 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law allows visa-free entry where: (1) a mutual visa-exemption agreement between China and your country applies; (2) you hold a valid foreigner’s residence permit; (3) you transit to a third country or region on a connecting ticket, staying no more than 24 hours without leaving the port, or within a designated area for a set period; or (4) another situation set by the State Council. Even then, Article 24 requires a valid passport or other international travel document, an entry permit where applicable, and border inspection.

The Three Routes Most Travellers Use

First, mutual agreements: China has standalone visa-exemption treaties with a number of countries. Second, unilateral visa-free entry: China grants visa-free access on its own initiative to ordinary passport holders of a growing list of countries, typically for stays of up to 30 days, and the list is updated periodically. Third, 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit: as of August 2026 this covers 57 countries entering through 60 designated ports in 24 provincial-level regions, provided you hold a connecting ticket with a confirmed date and seat to a third country or region.

What You Cannot Do Without a Visa

Work is the main limit. Articles 41 and 43 require a work permit and a work-type residence permit; working without them is illegal employment under Article 80 — a fine of RMB 5,000–20,000, and in serious cases 5–15 days’ detention plus a fine. Overstaying is illegal stay under Article 78. You can be ordered out under Article 62 (barred for 1–5 years) or expelled under Article 81 (barred for 10 years); a court may also impose deportation under Article 35 of the Criminal Law. Border officers may refuse entry under Article 25, and Article 26 requires you to return if entry is denied.

A Practical Scenario

A visitor enters China visa-free for a 10-day holiday, then accepts paid work from a local company. His lawful stay instantly becomes illegal employment. He should have left, obtained a Z visa abroad, and secured a work permit and residence permit before starting.

Key Takeaway

Visa-free entry is a short-stay privilege with conditions. Check the current country list and permitted stay with the National Immigration Administration, keep your onward ticket, and never work on a visitor status.

FAQ

Q: Which countries can enter China visa-free?

A: Ordinary passport holders covered by a mutual visa-exemption agreement or by China’s unilateral visa-free policy, plus 240-hour transit passengers from 57 countries. The lists change, so check the National Immigration Administration’s latest announcement.

Q: Can I work in China without a visa?

A: No. Articles 41 and 43 require a work permit and a work-type residence permit; working on visitor status is illegal employment.

Q: What happens if I overstay?

A: Illegal-stay penalties under Article 78 apply, and you may be removed under Article 62 (1–5 year re-entry ban) or expelled under Article 81 (10-year ban).

Q: How long can I stay without a visa?

A: Unilateral visa-free entries are typically up to 30 days; the 240-hour transit scheme allows up to 10 days.

Q: Do I need a visa if I hold a Chinese residence permit?

A: No. Article 22 exempts holders of a valid foreigner’s residence permit from needing a separate visa.

Wang Guan | Co-founder, Beijing Haolue Law Firm | +86 17813108512