China entry rules · Bulgaria

Do Bulgarian citizens need a visa for China?

No — you can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days. This page covers what that means when travelling on a Bulgarian passport, and the entry rules that apply once you land.

Last checked July 2026

No visa needed — up to 30 days

Bulgarian citizens can enter mainland China with no visa at all and stay up to 30 days, under China's unilateral visa-free policy.

Valid for tourism, business, visiting family or friends, cultural and educational exchange, and transit. Working is not permitted.
No onward ticket is required, and you can arrive at any open port of entry — you are not limited to designated transit ports.
The policy currently runs through 31 December 2026. China has extended it repeatedly, but it is set by China alone and can change — re-check before you book.

Checked July 2026 against China National Immigration Administration ↗. Entry rules change often and can depend on your exact circumstances — always confirm with the NIA or your nearest Chinese embassy before booking.

Applies to every traveller, whatever your passport

The clock starts the day after you arrive

Visa-free stays are counted from 00:00 on the day AFTER you enter, not from your landing time — so an evening arrival effectively gives you an extra part-day.

Carry your physical passport at all times

You need it for hotel check-in, buying train and intercity bus tickets, some attractions, buying a SIM, and occasional police ID checks. A photo on your phone is not always accepted.

You must be registered with local police within 24 hours

Hotels do this automatically when they scan your passport at check-in. If you stay in a private home or an Airbnb that does not handle it, register yourself at the neighbourhood police station within 24 hours.

Tibet needs a permit on top of your entry

Foreign tourists cannot travel independently in Tibet, including Lhasa. You must book an organised tour through a licensed Tibetan agency, which obtains the Tibet Travel Permit for you — entering China visa-free does not grant access. Apply about 3 weeks ahead, or 6-8 in high season.

Hong Kong and Macau are separate immigration zones

You clear passport control entering and leaving them, and they use their own currencies. Coming back into the mainland uses a fresh visa-free entry or a multiple-entry visa — check your status before you cross.

Frequently asked questions