Since late 2023, travelers from several countries – including Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia – have been allowed to enter China visa-free for up to 15 days for tourism, business, or private visits. I recently took advantage of this new policy as a German passport holder and flew from Hong Kong to Beijing. In this article, I share everything about my experience: the entry process, accommodation rules, mobile internet, payment options, and essential app setups for international travelers.
Requirements for Visa-Free Entry
The 15-day visa-free entry policy is currently available to passport holders from a number of countries. As of 2025, this includes:
✅ Germany
✅ France
✅ Italy
✅ Netherlands
✅ Spain
✅ Malaysia
✅ Switzerland and others
General requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Return or onward ticket
- Purpose: tourism, business, or visiting friends/family
- Maximum stay: 15 calendar days (entry & exit days included)
- No extensions allowed
📎 Tip: Check the latest list of eligible countries with your local Chinese embassy or visit the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
🔒 Note: This policy is part of a trial program and currently valid until the end of 2025.
Arrival & Immigration Process
I flew directly from Hong Kong to Beijing. The entry process was smooth and fast:
- No visa required
- No questions at the border checkpoint
- Paper arrival form handed out at the airport (no online pre-registration needed)
🖊️ Tip: Bring a pen! The form asks for:
- Personal details
- Trip duration
- Accommodation address (hotel or private)
Staying with Friends & Mandatory Police Registration
I stayed at a friend’s private apartment in Beijing. Many travelers don’t realize:
📣 If you don’t stay at a hotel, you MUST register at the local police station within 24 hours.
🔍 Here’s how my registration went:
- My friend came with me to the police station
- He brought: his lease agreement and Chinese ID
- I showed: my passport and arrival form
- Duration: a few minutes
- Result: A printed “Temporary Residence Registration Form”
⚠️ Important: The process is entirely in Chinese. It’s nearly impossible without a local who speaks the language.
Mobile Internet & eSIMs Without VPN
❓ What’s blocked in China?
❌ Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube
✅ Chinese apps like Baidu, WeChat, Weibo
✅ My tested solution: eSIM with international routing
I tested two eSIM providers – both worked without VPN and let me use Western apps:
- Pangia Pass
- Airalo
📲 WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram all worked flawlessly without any manual VPN setup.
🌍 Recommendation: Install the eSIM before departure and test it in advance.
How to Pay in China as a Foreigner
❌ These don’t work well:
- Cash in most places
- Visa/Mastercard (almost never accepted in stores)
✅ What you actually need:
💳 Mobile payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay
I used Alipay, linking my non-Chinese Visa card. It worked everywhere:
- Restaurants
- Supermarkets
- Public transport
- Ride-hailing apps
🛠️ Tip: Setup takes only 5 minutes – and you can get help at the airport!
Digital Life & Airport Help Desk
Surprisingly, Chinese airports now offer a fantastic service:
🧑💻 There is a special help desk for foreign travelers, where they guide you through:
- Setting up Alipay & WeChat Pay
- Installing taxi & map apps
- eSIM activation
- Booking local accommodation
🎯 Especially helpful for first-time visitors – I highly recommend stopping by.
Before You Go: Travel Checklist
✅ Passport valid for at least 6 months
✅ Return or onward ticket booked
✅ Accommodation address ready (hotel or host)
✅ Download & install Alipay and WeChat Pay
✅ Purchase eSIM (e.g. Pangia Pass or Airalo) and activate before departure
✅ Pen for arrival form
✅ Be prepared for police registration if staying in a private residence
✅ Consider a translation app – English is rarely spoken
Conclusion
My visa-free trip to China was a smooth and surprisingly modern experience:
✔️ No visa or delays
✔️ Easy police registration with help
✔️ WhatsApp & social media worked via eSIM
✔️ Mobile payments worked with foreign cards
✔️ Helpful airport support for all tech needs
If you prepare well, China is much more accessible than you might think – even without speaking Chinese.
FAQ
Can travelers from Europe or other eligible countries visit China without a visa?
Yes, for up to 15 days, for tourism, business, or personal visits.
Do I need a VPN in China?
Not necessarily – Pangia Pass and Airalo worked without a VPN.
What if I stay at a friend’s place?
Register at the local police station within 24 hours – with a Chinese-speaking friend.
How can I pay in China?
Use Alipay or WeChat Pay – both work with foreign bank cards now.