China’s National Immigration Administration expanded the visa‑free entry policy for 59 countries, allowing holders of ordinary passports to travel to Hainan Province for up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, exhibitions, or sports events—excluding those wishing to work or study.
Eligible travelers can arrive via any international port of entry in Hainan—including major airports (Haikou Meilan, Sanya Phoenix, Qionghai Boao) and cruise ports—and must stay within Hainan throughout their visit.
What’s the Big Deal?
The Chinese government has officially reactivated and expanded its Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free Entry Policy as . This policy provides a seamless, border-light experience for eligible travelers, businesspeople, exhibition attendees, and family visitors. Whether you are seeking to unwind in Sanya, explore the vibrant markets of Haikou, or attend a global conference in Boao, you can now do so with only your passport and return ticket.
Who Can Enter Visa-Free?
Citizens of 59 countries, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, the majority of the EU, Russia, Japan, South Korea, and many others, are now officially permitted to enter Hainan without a visa for a period of up to 30 days.
This visa-free access is exclusive to Hainan Province and does not extend to mainland China. Nevertheless, travelers who intend to investigate the mainland subsequent to their arrival must adhere to the standard visa procedures.
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What’s Allowed on This Visa-Free Entry?
The visa-free policy isn’t limited to tourism.
- Leisure and tourism
- Trade fairs and business interactions
- Visiting acquaintances or family members
- Medical treatment
- Participating in cultural exhibitions or athletic competitions
Only work and study purposes are excluded from this privilege.
How It Works?
Getting in is refreshingly easy:
- Arrive at one of Hainan’s designated ports of entry, including Haikou Meilan International Airport, Sanya Phoenix International Airport, or significant seaports such as Boao, Qinglan, and Basuo.
- Present your valid passport (with a minimum of three months remaining until its expiration), hotel booking or accommodation details, and evidence of onward travel.
- Obtain a passport stamp and indulge in a tropical sanctuary for a full 30 days.
No invitation letter. No embassy appointments. No service fees.
But There’s a Catch:
This freedom applies exclusively to Hainan Island. If you plan to go beyond its borders into mainland China, you’ll need to apply for a separate Chinese visa in advance. Hainan may be China’s visa-free oasis, but the Great Wall still needs a formal invitation.
Why Is This Big News?
Hainan is establishing itself as a global tourism center and world-class free trade port, and this policy is a bold invitation to the international community. Bali and Phuket are Asia’s preferred tropical escapes, but the island is poised to challenge them with its breathtaking beaches, duty-free shopping, direct international flights, and growing reputation in sports and wellness tourism.
And now, without the burden of visa documentation, your next spontaneous island getaway could very well be to Hainan.
References:
- https://www.visaforchina.cn/MNL3_EN/tongzhigonggao/280508735187718144.html
- https://www.hainanairlines.com/HUPortal/dyn/portal/DisplayPage?COUNTRY_SITE=AT&LANGUAGE=GB&PAGE=CFEP&SITE=CBHZCBHZ.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is the Hainan visa-free entry policy for citizens of 59 countries?
Since May 1, 2018, citizens holding ordinary passports from a specific list of 59 countries can enter Hainan Province visa-free for up to 30 days, for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, exhibitions, sports competitions, and other short‑term visits (excluding long‑term work or study)
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Which countries are eligible for this policy?
The 59 eligible countries span multiple regions and include:
Americas (6): USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile
Oceania (2): Australia, New Zealand
Europe & Schengen (majority): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Russia, Ukraine, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia, Albania, Belarus
Asia (11): South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar
Notably, this list includes countries like Canada, Sweden, and the UK—which are not covered by mainland China’s broader visa exemptions, making Hainan the only region they can visit visa‑free under this pol -
What is the permitted duration and entry scope?
Maximum stay: 30 days
Counted from: 00:00 of the day after entry
Allowed travel area: Only within Hainan Province—mainland China travel requires a separate visa
