China Scraps Visas for UK Travellers. What the New 30-Day Rule Means

UK travellers have a new visa-free option as of 17 February 2026. Chinese authorities confirmed that British passport holders can now enter mainland China for up to 30 days without obtaining a visa in advance.

What Changed

The new policy removes the previous requirement for UK nationals to apply for and pay for a Chinese tourist visa before travel. Visitors can now arrive at Chinese border control and receive entry permission for stays of up to 30 days, provided they hold a valid UK passport with at least six months validity remaining.

The Practical Details

This applies specifically to mainland China. Entry to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau still requires separate arrangements under their own immigration rules. The 30-day limit is strict, and overstaying can result in fines or entry bans, so travellers should ensure their departure date falls within the window.

Direct flights from the UK to mainland China operate from London Heathrow to Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, with connections available to dozens of secondary cities. Return fares typically range from £400 to £800 depending on season and carrier.

Why China, Why Now

China has extended similar visa-free access to several European and Asian nations over the past 18 months as part of a broader strategy to revive inbound tourism. The country recorded 35 million international visitor arrivals in 2024, still below pre-pandemic levels. Simplifying entry for high-value markets like the UK is a calculated move to close that gap.

Should You Book Immediately

The timing is genuinely advantageous for anyone considering China travel in 2026. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and clearer skies. Summer brings heat and humidity to much of the country, while winter can be severe in the north.

Visa-free entry removes both cost (previously £85-150 depending on processing speed) and bureaucracy from the equation. However, travellers should note that China's internet restrictions remain in place. Western websites and apps including Google, WhatsApp, and most social media platforms are blocked without a VPN.

The Bottom Line

This is a meaningful change for UK travellers. The 30-day window is generous enough for most holiday itineraries, and the saving on visa fees and paperwork makes spontaneous trips more viable. If China was on your 2026 list, the barriers just got significantly lower.

Sources

[BBC News: China confirms visa-free travel for UK nationals](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c875d3d3x34o)