Do citizens of United States need a visa for China?
Yes. United States passport holders need a visa for China and must get it before the trip, from an embassy or consulate.
- Entry rule
- Visa required
- Length of stay
- Set by the visa
- Where to get it
- Embassy or consulate
- Last checked
- Nov 9, 2026
Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel. Source: Passport Index dataset (MIT), refreshed Nov 9, 2026.
China missions in United States
Consulate General of China, Chicago
Consulate General of China, New York, New York City
Document checklist: United States → China
General guidance for a short trip. Requirements change, so confirm with the official sources linked below.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your trip, with 2 blank pages.
- Completed visa application form.
- Recent passport photos.
- Travel medical insurance for the whole stay.
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements of the last 3–6 months).
- Employment letter or proof of business/studies.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation).
- Return or onward ticket.
Only use the official government portal. Many look-alike sites charge extra.
United States missions in China
- Embassy of the United States of AmericaEmbassy · Beijing · +86 10 8531 3000See all
- Consulate General of the United States, GuangzhouConsulate General · Guangzhou · +86 20 3814 5775See all
- Consulate General of the United States, Hong KongConsulate General · Hong KongSee all
- Consulate General of the United States, ShanghaiConsulate General · ShanghaiSee all
Frequently asked questions
Do citizens of United States need a visa for China?
Yes. United States passport holders need a visa for China and must get it before the trip, from an embassy or consulate. Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel.
How long can citizens of United States stay in China?
The length of stay is set by the visa that is issued.
Where is the China embassy in United States?
The China embassy in United States is located at 3505 International Place, N.W., Washington, D.C..