China to Russian Federation visa requirements

Chinese ordinary passport holders may enter Russia visa-free for up to 30 days through 14 September 2026 for tourism, guest/private visits, business, events, or transit. Work, study, residence, journalism, and international road-transport work still need the proper visa or permit. Russia now allows citizens of the People's Republic of China holding ordinary passports to enter and leave Russia without a visa and stay for up to 30 days per visit through 14 September 2026 inclusive. The rule is based on the Russian presidential order signed on 1 December 2025 and is reciprocal to China's trial visa-free policy for Russian ordinary passports that began on 15 September 2025. Eligible purposes include tourism, guest/private visits, business travel, participation in scientific, cultural, economic, sport and similar events, and transit through Russia. It is not a general right to live or work in Russia: the Chinese MFA notice says the waiver does not cover work, journalism, study, residence, international road transport drivers/clerks, or accompanying vehicle interpreters. Qualifying visitors do not apply or pay a visa fee before travel, but should carry proof of travel purpose, accommodation, return/onward transport, insurance, and enough payment access because border officers and carriers may ask for supporting evidence. For stays over 30 days, ineligible purposes, or travel after the temporary waiver expires unless extended, use the relevant Russian visa route. Russia's unified e-visa remains an online fallback for eligible short visitor purposes: it is single entry, valid for 120 days from issue, permits up to 30 days from entry, and is processed in no more than 4 calendar days.