Do Indian citizens need a visa for China?印度
Updated for 2026 — India → China entry rules, with the official source.
Yes. Indian passport holders currently need a visa to visit China. India is not covered by China's unilateral or mutual visa-free policies, and the 240-hour visa-free transit does not currently include India. Apply for a tourist (L) or business (M) visa before you travel.
India → China: eligibility at a glance
| Visa-free scheme | Eligible? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 30-day unilateral visa-free | No | Any port · no onward ticket |
| Mutual (bilateral) visa-free | No | Treaty-based · any port |
| 240-hour (10-day) transit | No | Designated ports · onward ticket |
| Hainan 30-day visa-free | No | Hainan island only |
Policy data verified June 2026. Rules change frequently — always confirm with the official source before booking.
What applies to you
A visa is required
Apply before travel
- No visa-free pathway currently covers this nationality and port
- Apply for a tourist (L) or business (M) visa at a Chinese visa centre
- A 240-hour transit may still apply at other ports — check options below
Want a result for your exact arrival city and route?
Open the Visa-Free Checker →Helpful for Indian travellers
Frequently asked questions
Do Indian citizens need a visa for China?
Yes. Indian passport holders currently need a visa to visit China. India is not covered by China's unilateral or mutual visa-free policies, and the 240-hour visa-free transit does not currently include India. Apply for a tourist (L) or business (M) visa before you travel.
What visa do Indian citizens need for China?
Most visitors apply for a tourist (L) visa; business travellers use the (M) visa. Apply at a Chinese visa application centre with your passport, photo, itinerary and supporting documents before you travel.
Is there any visa-free option for Indian citizens?
Not currently for an ordinary visit. India is not on the unilateral, mutual, 240-hour transit or Hainan visa-free lists as of June 2026. Policies change often, so check the tracker and the National Immigration Administration before you book.
Where can Indian citizens verify China visa rules before booking?
Always confirm with China's National Immigration Administration (the official source) and use the Panda Touring visa-free checker for a personalised result by nationality and arrival city.
China visa requirements by country
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