Do Australia passport holders need a visa to visit China?

Australian ordinary passport holders can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, exchange or transit, under China's unilateral visa-free policy now extended to 31 December 2026. As of 30 May 2026, holders of ordinary Australian passports do NOT need a visa for short visits to China. Under China's unilateral visa-free policy (first effective 1 July 2024, broadened from 30 November 2024, and extended on 5 November 2025), Australians may enter China for business, tourism, visiting family and friends, exchange visits, or transit for a single continuous stay of up to 30 days, without applying for any visa. The policy is currently valid through 31 December 2026. No application, fee, eVisa, or visa-on-arrival is required — simply travel on a valid passport. Travellers should hold a passport valid for at least six months, complete the Arrival Card (available online before travel or on arrival), and may be asked for proof of onward travel and accommodation. Anyone staying longer than 30 days, or travelling for work or study, must obtain the appropriate visa (e.g. Z work visa, X study visa, or a tourism L visa for stays beyond 30 days) before arrival. Visitors staying in private accommodation (not a hotel) must register with the local police station within 24 hours of arrival; hotels handle this automatically at check-in.