South Korea to China tourist visa
Complete guide to visiting China from South Korea: visa-free entry for up to 30 days, L visa requirements for longer stays, fees, and entry tips. 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 South Korean passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date with at least 2 blank pages
- Electronic Arrival Card — Complete the electronic arrival declaration before or upon arrival in China
- Return or Onward Ticket — Proof of your departure from China within the allowed stay period
- Accommodation Details — Hotel booking or invitation letter showing where you will stay
How to apply
- Download the National Immigration Administration — Download the National Immigration Administration app, or
- Use WeChat or Alipay mini-programs — Use WeChat or Alipay mini-programs
- Enter your passport details, flight — Enter your passport details, flight information, and accommodation
- Submit before departure or upon — Submit before departure or upon arrival in China
- Return or onward flight ticket — Return or onward flight ticket (within 30 days)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking — Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host details)
Common questions
- Do South Koreans need a visa to visit China?
- No, for stays up to 30 days. South Korean citizens can enter China visa-free for tourism, business, family visits, or transit until December 31, 2026. For stays longer than 30 days, you will need to apply for an L visa (tourist visa).
- How long can South Koreans stay in China without a visa?
- Up to 30 days per visit under the visa-free policy. You cannot extend this period without leaving and re-entering China. For longer stays, apply for an L visa before traveling.
- What documents do I need for visa-free entry to China?
- You need a valid South Korean passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages), return or onward flight ticket, accommodation details, and a completed electronic arrival card. No pre-approval or visa is required.
- How do I complete the electronic arrival card for China?
- Since November 20, 2025, China uses electronic arrival declarations. You can complete this via the National Immigration Administration app, or through WeChat and Alipay mini-programs. You can fill it out before departure or upon arrival.
- What if I want to stay in China longer than 30 days?
- Apply for an L visa (tourist visa) before traveling. Visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Seoul. Processing takes 4 working days for regular service. Fees start at ₩46,000 for a single entry visa.
- Where is the Chinese Visa Application Center in Seoul?
- The CVASC is located on the 17th Floor of Namsan Square, 173 Toegyero, Joong-gu, Seoul. It is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The nearest subway is Chungmu-ro Station (Line 3 or 4), Exit 5.