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China visa-free entry and longer medical stays
Ordinary passport holders of many European countries, including Switzerland, Germany and Austria, may enter China visa-free for up to 30 days until 31 Dec 2026 for business, tourism, family visits, exchanges and transit (source). Medical treatment is not explicitly listed. Stays longer than 30 days require a visa in advance.
Status: 10 Nov 2026. No extension into 2027 had been published for Switzerland, Germany or Austria at that date. Check the current notice from the Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling.
The rules at a glance
| Item | Rule |
|---|---|
| Who | ordinary passport holders from a list of countries incl. Switzerland, Germany, Austria |
| Length | max. 30 days from entry |
| Purposes | business, tourism, family/friends visits, exchanges, transit |
| Valid until | 31 Dec 2026 |
| Not covered | service passports; stays over 30 days; other purposes |
What this means for a medical trip
- Short stays (up to 30 days): the officially listed purposes for visa-free entry are business, tourism, visiting family and friends, exchange and transit. Medical examination or treatment is not listed. Confirm the appropriate way to enter in writing with the Chinese embassy or consulate before you travel. [待确认：使领馆口径]
- Longer stays: radiotherapy or multi-stage treatment often exceeds 30 days. Apply for a visa in advance; we check case by case which category fits and whether the hospital issues an invitation letter. [待确认]
- Transit schemes (visa-free transit to a third country) are generally not suitable for treatment stays.
Other nationalities
Rules depend on your passport. Holders of Chinese passports do not need a visa. Please check your situation with the relevant embassy.
Frequently asked questions
When do the 30 days start?
On the day of entry. Leave a buffer in case medical appointments move.
Will visa-free entry be extended into 2027?
As of 10 Nov 2026 no extension had been published for Switzerland, Germany or Austria. We will update this page once an official notice appears.
Can I extend my stay in China if treatment takes longer?
You cannot rely on that. If you expect to stay longer than 30 days, apply for a visa in advance. [待确认]
Organisational consultation, not medical advice.
Medical disclaimer: VIP Cure Trip is not a medical provider and does not diagnose or treat. The content on this page is general information and does not replace advice from a qualified physician. All medical decisions are made by the treating doctors. In an emergency, call 144 (Switzerland) or 112 (EU). Full medical disclaimer