I’m from the UK and planning to stay in China for 25 days in May. Is an ordinary passport enough as long as it covers my stay?

Q: I’m from the UK and planning to stay in China for 25 days in May. Is an ordinary passport enough as long as it covers my stay?

A: Yes! Actually, you’ve picked the perfect time to go! As long as your ordinary passport is valid for at least the entire duration of your stay, you are good to go and can stay up 30 days withou a visa.

Starting Feb 17, China has added the United Kingdom to its visa-free list. For British citizens, an ordinary passport valid for at least the duration of intended stay in China is needed. Holders of travel documents or temporary or emergency documents other than ordinary passports are not allowed to enter into China without a visa. The unilateral visa-waiver arrangement for British citizens will be effective until Dec 31, 2026.

It’s highly recommended to double-check your airline’s specific passport validity requirements before you fly.

(Information updated March 2026)