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Russian visiting China
Visa not required
Max stay: 30 days
- From September 15, 2025 to September 14, 2026, Russian national ordinary passport holders can travel to China for business, tourism, family visits, transit and exchange and visit purposes for up to 30 days without a visa under the newly announced visa waiver program.
- 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit to a third country or region (including Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan) using any mode of transport. Must have a confirmed onward ticket/itinerary, and enter through 1 of 64 approved ports.
- During which, may freely travel within the 24 provinces permitted for visa-free transit and engage in tourism, business, and visits.
- 24-hour visa-free transit to a third country or region (including Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan), is available at most international airports, without leaving the airport.
- Travellers who need to leave the airport may obtain a temporary entry permit from immigration.
- 5-day port visa (Visa on Arrival) for Shenzhen if arriving at designated ports of entry from Hong Kong by land or sea, for stays within Shenzhen.
- 3-day port visa (Visa on Arrival) if arriving in Zhuhai or Xiamen at designated ports of entry, for stays within the respective city.
- 15-day visa-free entry for cruise ship passengers in tour groups, if arriving at any cruise port along China's coastline, including but not limited to Tianjin; Dalian; Shanghai; Lianyungang; Wenzhou; Zhoushan; Xiamen; Qingdao; Guangzhou; Shenzhen; Beihai; Haikou; Sanya. May further travel inland to all regions of coastal provinces (and equivalents) and Beijing.
- May apply for a port visa (Visa on Arrival) if travelling for an urgent, qualified reason. Prior clearance for port visa is highly recommended or may be denied boarding by airlines.
- Visa not required for 15 days for travelling as part of an accredited tour group (5 ~ 50 people).
- May visit Suifenhe without a visa for up to 15 days if travelling with at least one companion.
- Residents of Amur Oblast may visit Heihe without a visa for a day.
- 30 days visa-free on Hainan Island through travel agencies provided that nationals of Russia arriving on a direct flight from third countries.
DISCLAIMER: Visa requirements are subject to change. Please verify with official sources before traveling.
Guidelines for Foreigners_National Immigration administration
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Entry Checklist
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Completed arrival/departure card
Health & Vaccinations
- Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended.
- Healthcare: Major cities have modern medical facilities, but quality varies in rural areas. Travel insurance is essential.
- Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Safety & Security
- Crime: China is generally safe, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. Be aware of scams.
- Areas to Avoid: Exercise caution in areas with political sensitivities. Avoid public demonstrations.
- Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120
- Fire: 119
Local Laws & Etiquette
- Important Laws: Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including the death penalty. Photography of military installations and government buildings is prohibited.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions. Politeness and humility are valued. Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude.
Money & Currency
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY) / Renminbi (RMB)
- Exchange Info: Currency can be exchanged at banks and major hotels. ATMs are widely available in urban areas.
- Typical Costs: Costs vary widely by city. A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Beijing or Shanghai can cost around $15-30 USD.
- Payment Methods: Mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are dominant. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. Cash is less common.
Transportation
- Getting Around: China has an extensive high-speed rail network. Major cities have efficient public transport (metro, buses). Taxis and ride-sharing apps are common.
- Driving Requirements: An international driving permit is not recognized. A temporary Chinese driving license is required to drive.
Communication
- Languages: Standard Chinese (Mandarin)
- Internet & Mobile: Mobile phone coverage is extensive. Internet access is subject to censorship. VPNs are often used.
- Useful Phrases:
- nee HOW — Hello
- shyeh-shyeh — Thank you
