What’s Changed for China Travel in 2025
Visa-Free Expansion
China now offers visa-free entry to 38+ countries for 15–30 days. The government has signaled the list will continue to expand. Check before you book.
New e-Visa System
China’s 2024 e-visa system allows eligible nationalities to apply online and receive their visa by email in 4–7 business days — no consulate visit needed.
144-Hour Transit Expanded
The transit visa-free policy now covers more cities and 6 full days — ideal for adding a China stopover without a visa.
Foreign Cards Now Work
Biggest practical change: international Visa/Mastercard now links directly to Alipay and WeChat Pay. Set up before travel.
What Hasn’t Changed
- VPN still required for Google/Instagram/WhatsApp
- Mobile payment still essential
- Police registration within 24h still required
- Air quality in cities still variable
Plan Your Trip
- 🎫 Tours & activities — Klook
- 🏨 Hotels — EconomyBookings
- 🚕 Airport transfer — Welcome Pickups
- 📱 eSIM & SIM card — Airalo
- 🚗 Car & scooter rental — Localrent
- ✈️ Flights — Kiwi.com