Do French citizens need a visa for China?
The official link goes to en.nia.gov.cn. NUM isn’t a government agency or a visa service. Rules change, so confirm on the official site before you pay or travel.
China entry rules for French citizens.
| Verdict | Visa-free |
|---|---|
| Document | None |
| Stay | 30 days |
| Checked | Verified on an official page · 2026-10-11 |
The rest of the trip for a French passport, from the arrival form to customs and travelling with children: China entry requirements.
The details for a French passport.
Unilateral 30-day visa-free entry for ordinary passports, for business, tourism, visiting family/friends, exchange or transit; currently runs to 31 Dec 2026. Work, study, journalism or stays over 30 days need a visa.
How long it must be valid.
At least 6 months beyond arrival. For 240-hour visa-free transit, at least 3 months.
Recent changes in China.
- 2025-06-01 — Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay added to 30-day visa-free entry.
- 2025-06-09 — Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain added to 30-day visa-free entry.
- 2025-06-12 — Indonesia added to 240-hour visa-free transit (55 countries).
The short answers.
Do French citizens need a visa for China?
No. French citizens don’t need a visa for China for stays of 30 days.
How long can French citizens stay in China?
30 days. Longer stays need a different visa.
Where do French citizens apply?
On the official site, en.nia.gov.cn. NUM links it and never charges for the link.
Does NUM issue China visas?
No. Only the government issues them. NUM explains the rule for your passport, links the official site, and can file the form for you where its desk covers it.