China entry in 2026 for Australian passports

Australia is included in China's visa-free expansion program. Before every trip, verify that your ordinary passport nationality is currently listed in the active policy window — do not rely on past news or social reposts: visa-free FAQ, MFA briefing.

Policy effective periods and scope can be updated. Always check the current mission-level page close to your booking date.

When eligible, Australian ordinary passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 30 days for business, tourism, family and friend visits, exchange, and transit.

Even without a visa sticker, bring itinerary and accommodation evidence. Airline check-in staff may request proof that your trip fits the stated purpose conditions. Keep documents easy to access.

If your specific case falls outside visa-free eligibility, evaluate 240-hour transit only when your route is clearly A-China-B with a confirmed onward booking to a different third country or region, and your entry port is on the designated list.

Use the NIA page for current operational details: NIA transit notice.

If conditions are uncertain or your stay exceeds 30 days, apply for a regular visa before departure. Use the official COVA portal and follow the instructions from your local Chinese mission: COVA portal.

Build schedule buffer for processing. Workload, missing documents, and local processing windows vary by jurisdiction.

NIA supports online arrival-card submission before landing and airport-side completion via kiosk or paper: arrival-card notice.

Hotels register guests directly. Private accommodation stays require local public security registration within 24 hours: Article 39 guidance.

MFA English briefing on visa-free expansion: source.

Chinese Embassy in the U.S. visa-free FAQ: source.

NIA transit and arrival-card notice: source.