As China’s medical standards and level of internationalization continue to advance, a growing number of foreign patients are choosing to seek medical treatment in the country. Understanding the relevant visa and entry policies is the first step toward a safe and efficient cross-border medical journey. The Chinese government is creating a more open environment for medical visits and health tourism through visa facilitation and visa-exemption policies.

I. Latest Visa-Exemption and Visa Facilitation Policies

To promote international exchange and health services, China has implemented visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival, and e-visa policies for numerous countries.

1. Unilateral Visa-Free Entry Countries (as of September 15, 2025)

Citizens of the following countries holding ordinary passports may enter China visa-free for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, exchange programs, or transit for a period not exceeding 30 days. The stay period is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day following entry.

• Europe (33 countries): France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, Slovenia, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Russia.
• Oceania (2 countries): Australia, New Zealand.
• Asia (7 countries): Brunei, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain.
• South America (5 countries): Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay.

Citizens of these countries may undergo short-term medical treatment, health check-ups, or medical consultations during their visa-free stay. If a longer treatment period is required, they can apply for a visa extension or convert to an appropriate visa category within China.

2. Countries with Mutual Visa Exemption for Ordinary Passports (Comprehensive Agreement)

As of December 2024, China has concluded mutual visa exemption agreements for ordinary passport holders with 25 countries, as listed below:

• Asia: United Arab Emirates, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Qatar, Maldives, Thailand, Singapore, Armenia, Solomon Islands.
• Europe: Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, San Marino.
• North America: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Bahamas, Dominica, Grenada.
• South America: Suriname.
• Africa: Mauritius, Seychelles.
• Oceania: Fiji, Tonga.

Citizens from these countries holding valid ordinary passports can enter China for medical visits without a separate visa application. The maximum period of stay is 30 days. If a longer treatment period is needed, an application for a visa extension or conversion can be filed within China.

3. 240-Hour Transit Visa-Exemption Policy

As of July 2025, China has implemented a 240-hour transit visa-exemption policy for 55 countries, including the United States, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Nationals from these countries holding valid international travel documents and an onward ticket with a confirmed date and seat to a third country or region may enter visa-free from any of the 60 designated ports across 24 provinces. They are permitted to stay and conduct activities within the specified administrative region for up to 10 days.

• Europe (40 countries): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway.
• Americas (6 countries): United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.
• Oceania (2 countries): Australia, New Zealand.
• Asia (7 countries): South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Indonesia.

4. Residents of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan

Residents of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan holding valid travel documents can travel freely to and from mainland China. Taiwan residents may enter using a “Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents” without needing a separate visa.

5. Group Visa Exemption and “National Key Medical Institution Invitation” Policy

At certain ports of entry (such as in Hainan, Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou), eligible high-end international patients and their accompanying persons invited by medical institutions can benefit from the “National Key Medical Institution Invitation Visa Exemption” policy. This allows them to enter directly for treatment through a special channel at border inspection by presenting an official medical invitation letter issued by a designated hospital.

This policy currently applies mainly to cooperative medical programs and patients requiring special treatment, and it is jointly managed by the National Health Commission (NHC) and the Ministry of Public Security.

II. Common Visa Types and Their Applicability

Visa Type	Applicable Persons	Description
M Visa (Business)	Short-term medical visits, check-ups, medical consultations.	Can be applied for with a hospital invitation letter; typically allows a stay of 30–90 days.
S1/S2 Visa	Accompanying family members, long-term rehabilitation companions.	S1 allows for residence over 90 days; S2 is for short-term entry.
Q Visa	Family reunion for foreign nationals with long-term residence.	Suitable for patients undergoing long-term rehabilitation.
L Visa (Tourist)	Medical + health tourism (e.g., TCM therapy, check-ups).	Limited to minor or non-surgical medical services.

III. Required Documents for Visa Application

• Original passport (with at least six months of validity).
• Official invitation letter from a medical institution (specifying treatment details and duration).
• Visa application form and a recent photograph.
• Proof of financial means and accommodation.
• Medical documents (e.g., medical summary, examination reports).
• Proof of insurance (if applicable).

IV. Entry Information

• Health Declaration: China has lifted all pandemic-related health code requirements, but it is still advisable to carry basic health certificates.
• Carrying Medication: Personal-use prescription drugs are permitted but should be accompanied by a doctor’s note. Anesthetic drugs require prior declaration.
• Medical Devices: Items such as ventilators or hearing aids should be registered with customs upon entry.
• Entry of Accompanying Persons: Family members should carry documentation of the patient’s medical condition and proof of their relationship.

V. Visa Extension and Residence Permit

If the treatment period needs to be extended, you can apply for a visa extension or a residence permit at the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau. The following documents are required:

• A certificate from the hospital confirming the need for extended treatment.
• Records of medical payments or proof of insurance coverage.
• A copy of the invitation letter from the medical institution.
• Passport and original visa.

VI. Practical Advice

• Prepare your visa application materials 4–6 weeks in advance.
• Obtain the invitation letter through an officially authorized medical institution or an international medical coordination platform.
• Confirm whether your insurance policy covers medical services in China.
• Patients who enter visa-free and need to extend their stay must apply for an extension before their visa-free period expires.