My name is Dima and I work in an office, usually I plan my trips on my own—without travel agencies or intermediaries. I traveled to China as a tourist: to see the country, visit the Great Wall, and understand how things work on the ground. Already at the preparation stage, it became clear that visa-free entry is not just “arrive and stay.” Length of stay, purpose of travel, documents, and even payment methods matter. To avoid problems before departure or at the border, I figured out how the visa-free regime for citizens of Uzbekistan works in practice and what is actually checked upon entry—and decided to share these nuances.

How visa-free entry to China works

Since 2025, citizens of Uzbekistan can enter China without a visa if the trip is short and has a clear purpose such as tourism or business.

For study, employment, or long-term residence, the visa-free regime does not apply in this case you need a visa, which must be obtained in advance through an embassy.

Length of stay rules are simple:

  • Up to 30 days per single trip
  • Up to 90 days total within any six-month period

The number of trips does not matter, only the total number of days spent in China is counted.

Example with dates:

  • January 1- 30 - 30 days
  • February 15 - March 16 - another 30 days
  • April 1-30 - another 30 days

Total: 90 days.

On May 1, visa-free entry is no longer allowed the limit is exhausted. You can re-enter later, once enough time has passed and the January days drop out of the six-month window. Then you may use the freed-up days, but no more than 30 at a time.

It is also important not to confuse mainland China with Hong Kong and Macau. Visa-free entry for citizens of Uzbekistan does not apply to them separate visas are required.

Documents checked upon entry

Even under the visa-free regime, border officers may ask about the purpose of your visit and check your readiness to leave China on time. It is important to have the following documents with you: