Visa & Entry Information

International delegates should establish well in advance whether they need a visa to enter China. Requirements depend on nationality, passport type, purpose of travel, and intended length of stay.

This page provides general planning guidance only. It does not constitute immigration advice or guarantee the issue of a visa or permission to enter China.

Visa-free entry

China currently permits eligible holders of ordinary passports from designated countries to enter without a visa for up to 30 days for specified purposes, including business, tourism, visits, exchange activities, and transit. Separate bilateral visa-waiver agreements may apply to nationals of other countries or holders of particular passport types.

Because BIOSTEC 2027 takes place in 2027 and the scope and validity of visa-free arrangements may change, delegates must recheck the rules that apply to them before booking and again before departure.

Eligible visa-free travellers should carry documents that explain the purpose of their visit, such as their conference invitation, registration confirmation, return or onward ticket, and accommodation booking.

Check the current list of countries covered by China’s unilateral visa-exemption policy

Applying for a Chinese visa

Delegates who are not eligible for visa-free entry should apply through the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for their place of residence, or through its designated visa application service.

A typical application process includes:

1. confirming the appropriate visa category and expected length of stay;
2. checking the requirements published by the responsible embassy, consulate, or visa centre;
3. completing the application and preparing the required passport, photograph, itinerary, accommodation, and invitation documents;
4. attending an appointment or providing additional documents where requested; and
5. checking the visa’s validity period, number of entries, and permitted duration of stay after it is issued.

China Online Visa Processing System
China Consular Affairs: Visas for China

Conference invitation letters

For questions about a conference invitation letter, contact the BIOSTEC Secretariat. An invitation letter supports an application but does not guarantee that a visa will be issued.

Visa and entry rules can change at short notice. The final decision on admission rests with the competent Chinese authorities. Delegates should rely on the latest information from China’s National Immigration Administration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Chinese embassy or consulate serving their place of residence.