Most international visitors need a visa for China, but several routes exist: (1) unilateral 30-day visa-free entry for ordinary-passport holders of a growing list of countries (incl. much of the EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and others) when travelling for business, tourism, transit, exchange or family visits; (2) the M (business/trade) visa for citizens of countries without visa-free access — apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center with a letter of invitation from the organiser or a Chinese partner; (3) 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit through Shanghai Pudong or Hongqiao for travellers with a confirmed onward ticket to a third country; (4) the L (tourist) visa for accompanying family. Apply 4–8 weeks ahead; biometrics may be required in person, and policies change frequently — confirm your nationality's current status on the official visa portal before booking.
Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
Policy is time-limited and the country list changes; travellers must hold a passport valid for the full stay and a return/onward ticket. Confirm your nationality's status immediately before booking. Apply with a letter of invitation from the organiser or a Chinese partner, hotel booking and flight itinerary. Fee shown is the typical rate for US citizens; other nationalities commonly pay the equiva
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