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In recent times, China has expanded its visa-free policy, which has brought convenience to promoting economic and trade cooperation, boosting the tourism industry, and enhancing cultural exchanges. Let's check out what needs to be paid attention to for foreign nationals eligible for "visa-free entry".

1) Do foreign nationals need to make declarations through Chinese embassies or consulates abroad before coming to China under the visa-free entry policy?

Eligible foreign nationals do not need to make declarations to Chinese embassies or consulates abroad before coming to China under the visa-free entry policy.

2) Do Chinese border inspection authorities verify the purposes of entry to China, and if so, how? Do travelers need to carry any additional documents besides their passports when entering China?

Foreign nationals entering China for purposes specified in the visa-free policy, such as business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, or transiting, will be permitted entry after inspection by Chinese border inspection authorities in accordance with law. For foreign nationals whose purposes for entering China do not comply with the visa-free entry policy, or those who have other legally specified circumstances for prohibition of entry, the border inspection authorities will make decisions to prohibit their entry in accordance with law. It is advisable to carry supporting documents like invitation letters, flight tickets, and hotel reservations that correspond to the purpose of your visit.

Please note that individuals coming to China for work, study, and news interviewing and reporting are not covered by the visa-free entry policy.

3) How is the 15-day stay period calculated?

Every foreign national who meets the criteria for visa-free entry to China can stay continuously in China until 24:00 of the 15th calendar day from the day of entry.

4) Can a traveler depart for China from a country other than his/her country of nationality?

Foreign nationals who meet the criteria for visa-free entry to China can depart for China from any country or region outside of China.

5) Does the visa-free entry policy apply to tourist groups?

Foreign nationals who meet the criteria for visa-free entry to China, whether they are part of a tourist group or traveling individually, can apply for the visa-free entry to enter China.

6) Is it possible to extend the stay period beyond 15 days if needed while in China?

If a foreign national intends to stay in China for a period exceeding 15 days, he/she should apply for a visa that aligns with the purpose of his/her visit at a Chinese embassy or consulate abroad in advance. If, after entering China under the visa-free policy, he/she has a valid and justifiable reason to extend his/her stay, he/she should apply for a stay or residence permit at the local public security authority's exit and entry administration office.

7) Is it possible to make multiple entries to China under the visa-free policy? Are there any requirements for the time interval between entries? Are there any limitations on the number of visa-free entries or the total number of days allowed for stay?

Foreign nationals who meet the criteria for visa-free entry to China can make multiple visa-free entries into China. Currently, there are no specific limitations on the number of visa-free entries or the total duration of stay. However, it's essential to ensure that the activities you engage in during your stay align with the purpose of your entry and do not deviate from it.

The information provided above is excerpted from the Answers to Frequently Asked Questions Concerning the Partial Visa Exemption Policy for Holders of Ordinary Passports from Six Countries Including France published by the Embassy of China in France.

(Sources: www.chinaqw.com, www.chinadaily.com.cn)