China

Chinese citizens may need to apply for a visa to travel internationally, depending on the destination. This may include applying for a visa in person, an eVisa, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), a Visa on Arrival (VOA), or traveling visa-free to certain countries.

At present, Chinese nationals can apply for an eVisa or an ETA in 60 countries. Both of these options are available through online applications, offering convenience and quicker processing times.

A Visa on Arrival is accepted in 19 countries. For countries that require a traditional sticker or stamped visa, Chinese citizens must visit the respective embassy or consulate. In some cases, it is possible to schedule an appointment online before visiting, depending on the country’s procedures.

To travel abroad, Chinese citizens must hold a passport that is valid for at least six (6) months from the intended date of entry, regardless of whether a visa is required.

According to global passport rankings, the Chinese passport ranks 56th, allowing visa-free access to 33 countries.

Visa requirements differ based on the destination. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to review the specific visa rules and entry guidelines for your destination before beginning the application process.

An eVisa is a digital visa issued electronically. You can apply for it online without the need to visit the destination country’s embassy or consulate. Once approved, the eVisa can either be saved on your smartphone or printed out and presented at the airport upon arrival.

An ETA, or Electronic Travel Authorization, is a travel permit that allows entry into a country without applying for a visa in advance. After arriving in the country, you can receive your visa directly from the immigration authorities.

Similar to an eVisa, an eTA can also be applied for online and is sent to your email once approved. However, unlike an eVisa, an eTA is valid for a limited period. You must arrive and complete your visa process within the specified timeframe.

If you fail to enter the country within the allowed period, the eTA becomes invalid, and you will need to apply for a new one.

Below is a list of countries that offer eVisa and ETA options to Chinese citizens:

VoA or Visa on Arrival is a type of visa that allows travelers to apply for a visa after arriving at the destination country’s airport or border. 

As the immigration authorities hold the power to change the policy of VoA at times, it is best to check the recent range in policy of your destination country before traveling. 

The countries mentioned below allow China citizens to get a VoA:

As China’s passport ranks 56th worldwide, citizens can visit 33 countries visa-free.

Here is a list of countries China citizens can visit visa-free:

Chinese citizens are required to apply for a sticker visa before traveling to 84 countries. The visa application process may be completed either online or in person, depending on the destination country’s policy.

In some cases, it is possible to complete the entire application online without visiting an embassy or consulate or mailing your passport. This option is available only if the destination country supports such procedures.

For countries that require an in-person application, you must visit the embassy or consulate to submit your visa application form, supporting documents, and passport.

Additionally, the duration of the visa depends on both the type of visa and the purpose of your visit. It is important to review the specific visa requirements and conditions of the country you plan to visit before starting the application process.

Here is the list of countries that require a visa from China citizens:

Chinese citizens can enjoy visa-free transit while traveling through the following countries. The visa-free transit period differs for each country, so we recommend you check with the respective countries’ immigration before your transit.

Some general visa requirements are the same in every country. Chinese citizens traveling abroad must fulfill the requirements stated below:

• Valid Passport: You must hold a valid Chinese passport with at least six (6) months of remaining validity from the intended date of entry into the destination country.
• Visa Application Form: A fully completed visa application form is required. This can be submitted either online or in person at the embassy or consulate of the destination country. The form will ask for your personal details, travel plans, supporting documents, and the purpose of your visit.
• Photographs: One or more recent passport-sized photographs are needed. These must have been taken within the last three months, with a plain white background, and clearly show your full face.
• Flight Itinerary: Certain countries may ask for proof of your travel bookings. This includes confirmed inbound and outbound flight tickets.
• Accommodation Details: You must provide evidence of where you will be staying during your trip. This may include hotel reservations, hostel details, or a letter from friends or family. A confirmed booking or complete address must be included in your visa application.

You can visit 196 countries with your Chinese passport. As the Chinese passport is ranked 56th globally, you can visit 33 countries without a visa. 

Chinese citizens can visit 33 countries without a visa. You can find the full country list from the ‘Visa Free’ section above. 

The most reliable way to prove citizenship is by presenting an official government-issued document. This includes a valid passport, national identity card, or a certificate of citizenship. These documents serve as legal proof that an individual is recognized as a citizen by their country.

No, China does not permit dual citizenship. If a Chinese national acquires citizenship in another country, they are considered to have renounced their Chinese citizenship, whether or not they formally declare it. Holding two nationalities is not legally recognized under Chinese law.