Australia to China tourist visa
Complete China visa requirements for Australians. Currently visa-free until Dec 2026. Plus L visa guide for longer stays. Updated December 2025.
- Visa
- China Visa-Free Entry
- Fee
- Free
- Processing time
- None required
- Length of stay
- Up to 30 days
Required documents
- Valid Passport — Your Australian passport must be valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- Visa Application Form — Complete the online application form through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center
- Passport Photo — Recent colour photograph meeting Chinese visa specifications
- Flight Itinerary — Round-trip flight booking or itinerary showing entry and exit from China
- Hotel Reservation — Proof of accommodation for your stay in China
How to apply
- Valid Australian passport (6+ months — Valid Australian passport (6+ months validity, 2+ blank pages)
- Printed and signed application form — Printed and signed application form
- Passport photo (48mm x 33mm, — Passport photo (48mm x 33mm, white background)
- Round-trip flight itinerary — Round-trip flight itinerary
- Hotel reservations or invitation letter — Hotel reservations or invitation letter
- Sydney — Level 19, 44 Market Street
Common questions
- Do Australians need a visa for China in 2025?
- No, for stays up to 30 days. Australia is included in China’s visa-free policy effective until December 31, 2026. You can enter for tourism, business, family visits, or transit without applying for a visa. For stays longer than 30 days, you need an L (Tourist) visa.
- How long can Australians stay in China without a visa?
- Up to 30 days per visit under the current visa-free policy. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for an L visa before travel or exit and re-enter (though frequent entries may raise questions).
- What documents do I need for visa-free entry to China?
- Just your valid Australian passport with at least 6 months validity. No advance application, photos, or booking confirmations are required. However, immigration may ask about your accommodation and return travel.
- How much does a China tourist visa cost for Australians?
- If you need an L visa for longer stays, the fee is AUD 94.50 for single entry with regular processing. Express processing costs AUD 152, and rush processing costs AUD 194. These fees include GST and service charges.
- How long does China visa processing take?
- Regular processing takes 4–6 business days. Express service (2–3 days) and rush service (1 day) are available for additional fees. Processing times may vary during peak travel seasons.
- Can I work on a Chinese tourist visa?
- No, the L visa and visa-free entry are strictly for tourism and related activities. Any paid work requires a Z (Work) visa with employer sponsorship. Violation of visa conditions can result in fines, detention, and deportation.