Can I travel to China without a visa?
Yes, US citizens can travel to China visa-free under the 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free exemption. This exemption allows those without a residence permit or valid visa to stay in certain Chinese cities for a few days to explore, provided they will then be leaving the country.
To qualify, you need to enter through an eligible port of entry, like Beijing Capital International Airport or Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and show proof of departure from an approved port of entry within the allotted 72- or 144-hour time period. Your arrival and departure flights cannot have stopovers within Mainland China and must originate and terminate in a different country. You’ll also need to show a valid passport (valid at least three months from the intended arrival date).
How long can I stay in China with my visa?
The L visa usually allows stays of 30 to 60 days but can go up to 90 days. The M visa is valid for up to 90 days.
Can I extend or renew my China visa?
Yes, it is possible to extend your Chinese visitor visa. You’ll need to do so at least seven days before your current one expires at the Exit & Entry Administration Office of the Public Security Bureau. The extension period depends on how long your current visa is valid. Most 30-day visas are extended for an additional 30 days, while 60-day visas can be extended for 60 days.
Can I travel to China with a different or separate passport than the one I used to get my visa?
If the passport that you used to get the Chinese visa has expired, you can still use it to enter China, provided you bring it along with your new, valid passport. The information on both passports needs to match.
If you lost your old passport that the Chinese visa is tied to, you’ll need to apply for a new visa along with your new passport.
Where can I find the Government of China’s official visa portal?
This is the Government of China’s official authorized visa website, where you can learn more about Chinese visas.
Where should I keep my China visa while traveling?
Your Chinese visa will be put into your passport, and you’ll need to keep your passport and visa with you at all times while out and about in China.
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