China Visa & Policy Updates
China has expanded its 30-day visa-free entry and 240-hour transit programs to more nationalities while launching a digital arrival card system that reduces border clearance to 15 minutes. Significant updates include a 10-day processing window for science graduates and a restored RMB 71,622 monthly salary floor for Category A work permits. Additionally, Shanghai now offers a one-year permit extension buffer for expats aged 60 to 65.
Zhejiang expands 144-hour visa-free transit to all 6 international ports in China
Zhejiang's new digital platform streamlines arrivals and logistics for travelers utilizing China's 240-hour visa-free transit window.
China digital arrival cards cut clearance times to 15 minutes for tourists
New digital immigration tools in China have streamlined entry processes, reducing border wait times to under 30 minutes for travelers utilizing visa-free policies.
China slashes Z visa wait times to 10 days for science graduates
China is introducing 5 to 10 year regional visas for investors and high-tech talent while speeding up approvals to 3 working days. Foreign graduates can now apply for direct work visas without the previous requirement of two years of work experience.
China enforces RMB 71,622 monthly salary floor for Category A work permits
Effective Feb. 9, China has restored strict pre-pandemic income thresholds for high-level work permits. Foreigners in Beijing and Shanghai must now earn over RMB 68,000 monthly to maintain Category A status or face a downgrade to Category B.
China Expands 30-Day Visa-Free Entry
China has extended its visa-free entry policy for citizens of several countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days until the end of 2026. While beneficial for short-term scouting, digital nomads requiring longer stays must still navigate traditional business or tourist visa categories.
How China’s Electronic Visa Program Works for Foreign Visitors
China is planning to introduce electronic visas and online application pilots to significantly reduce processing times for foreign visitors. The government is also simplifying approval procedures for those attending international exhibitions and sporting events.
China’s entry rules now cover more travelers
China is expanding its 30-day visa-waiver and 240-hour transit-free programs to more nationalities and ports of entry. Additionally, a new nationwide e-arrival-card system will be implemented by the end of Q2 to streamline the entry process for international travelers.
China Tightens Work Permit Rules for Older Expats
Shanghai has introduced a one-year work permit extension buffer for expats aged 60-65, while Guangzhou now requires new work permits before residence permit updates during job transfers. Additionally, B-category approvals for those over 60 are tightening, and parents of foreign newborns face a strict two-month visa application deadline.
China Updates Visa-Free Entry Rules for Canadians
Starting February 17, 2026, Canadian passport holders can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism, business, or family visits. This temporary policy, running through December 31, 2026, significantly reduces the cost and administrative burden for Canadian nomads and travelers.