China continued to see strong inbound travel activity in the third quarter of 2026, with visa-free arrivals increasing significantly year on year, according to figures released by the National Immigration Administration (NIA) on October 20.
From July 1 to September 30, China recorded approximately 11.60 million foreign national entries, representing a 15.6% increase compared with the same period last year. Of these, around 8.99 million entries were made under visa-free arrangements, accounting for 77.5% of all foreign national entries and marking a 24.1% year-on-year increase.
The latest figures highlight the growing importance of convenient entry arrangements in China's inbound tourism market and provide useful context for international travelers planning a visit.
Visa-Free Travel Accounts for More Than Three-Quarters of Foreign Entries
According to the NIA, visa-free entries represented more than three-quarters of all foreign national entries during the third quarter.
This does not mean that every international traveler can enter China without a visa. Eligibility depends on nationality, the applicable visa-exemption arrangement, the purpose of travel, the permitted length of stay, and other relevant entry requirements.
Travelers should check the latest official requirements for their passport before booking flights or finalizing their itinerary.
Which Countries Are Sending Visitors to China?
The NIA identified the following countries among the top ten sources of foreign visitors entering China during the third quarter:
Russia
South Korea
Vietnam
Malaysia
United States
Mongolia
Japan
Singapore
Thailand
Australia
Together, these ten countries accounted for 63.9% of foreign national entries during the period.
The list reflects the diversity of China's inbound travel market, spanning neighboring Asian countries as well as long-haul markets such as the United States and Australia.
For travelers from overseas, China offers a wide range of experiences, from historic landmarks and traditional cultural sites to dramatic mountain landscapes, vibrant modern cities, regional cuisine, and distinctive local communities.
What Does This Mean for International Travelers?
The latest figures indicate that international travel to China remains an important and active market. More convenient entry arrangements can make travel planning easier for eligible visitors, although entry requirements still vary by nationality and travel circumstances.
For a smoother trip, international visitors should consider several practical steps before departure:
1. Check your entry requirements. Confirm whether your passport qualifies for a visa-free arrangement, whether a transit exemption may apply, or whether you need to obtain a visa in advance.
2. Plan transportation between destinations. China is a large country, and travel between major cities and scenic areas may involve domestic flights, high-speed trains, private transfers, or a combination of transport options.
3. Prepare for payments and everyday travel. International visitors should review available payment methods, mobile connectivity, transport booking options, and any necessary apps before arrival.
4. Allow enough time for a well-paced itinerary. Combining destinations such as Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, Zhangjiajie, Guilin, Chengdu, and Yunnan can offer very different perspectives on China. The right route depends on the length of the trip, interests, budget, and preferred travel pace.
Planning a Private or Tailor-Made China Tour
For visitors who want to explore multiple destinations without managing every transportation connection themselves, a private or tailor-made itinerary can simplify the experience.
SEEK CHINA TRAVEL helps international visitors plan China journeys around their interests, schedule, and travel preferences. Depending on the destination and itinerary, arrangements may include private transfers, guided sightseeing, accommodation coordination, and customized travel routes.
Whether you are interested in China's iconic cities, cultural heritage, mountain scenery, or a combination of experiences, planning ahead can help you make better use of your time.
Official Source
National Immigration Administration of China, October 20, 2026: Third Quarter Records 192 Million Border Crossings; Visa-Free Entries by Foreign Nationals Rise 24.1% Year on Year.
Official announcement: https://www.nia.gov.cn/n794014/n794021/c1820896/content.html
Note: The statistics above refer to entry records during July–September 2026, not unique individual travelers. Visa and entry policies may change, so travelers should verify the latest official requirements before departure.