China Visa RequirementsFor Denmark passport holders
Danish passport holders can visit China visa-free for up to 15 days under China's unilateral visa exemption policy introduced for many European nationalities in 2024. This covers tourism, transit, business visits, and family visits. Stays beyond 15 days require a Chinese visa.
Great news! Denmark passport holders can enter China without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 15 days.
No application required for stays up to 15 days. Present your valid Danish passport at Chinese immigration. For stays longer than 15 days or for purposes not covered by the exemption (such as study or work), apply for a Chinese visa at the Chinese Embassy in Copenhagen before travel. Download a VPN before leaving Denmark if you want to access western internet services in China; VPN use is technically in a legal grey area.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Denmark to China: What You Need to Know
China introduced a unilateral visa exemption for citizens of Denmark and several other European countries in 2024, reflecting a drive to boost tourism and business visits. The exemption allows stays of up to 15 days without prior application. This policy has been extended and expanded since its introduction; verify current rules before travel. Denmark and China maintain significant trade relations, particularly through Maersk shipping and Danish pharmaceutical and food companies. Beijing (PEK/PKX), Shanghai (PVG/SHA), Guangzhou (CAN), and Chengdu (CTU) are the main international gateways. Note that many western internet services (Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp) are blocked in China.
How to Get There
Air China, China Eastern, and SAS fly Copenhagen (CPH) to Beijing (PEK) and Shanghai (PVG) with direct or one-stop service. Finnish Finnair via Helsinki is a popular connection. Total flight time is approximately 10-12 hours.
Money & Banking
China uses the Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB). International credit and debit cards have limited acceptance outside major hotels and international restaurants. WeChat Pay and Alipay are essential for day-to-day spending; set these up before arrival. Withdraw CNY from ATMs at major banks (Bank of China, ICBC) which reliably accept international Visa/Mastercard. Exchange currency at banks for the best rates. ATMs at airports and major hotels are reliable.
Practical Tips
China uses Type A, C, and I plugs. A universal adaptor is recommended. Voltage is 220V/50Hz. Tap water is not safe to drink in China; use bottled or boiled water. WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate payments in China; many local businesses do not accept international cards or cash easily. Set up WeChat Pay before travel by linking an international card through the app (this process requires a Chinese phone number or a Chinese contact to verify). Carry some Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB) cash as a backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can Danish citizens stay in China visa-free?
Danish passport holders can visit China visa-free for up to 15 days under China's unilateral visa exemption policy introduced in 2024. For longer stays, a Chinese visa is required from the Chinese Embassy in Copenhagen.
Do I need a VPN in China?
Many western internet services are blocked in China including Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and many others. Download and set up a VPN before leaving Denmark if you want to access these services. VPN use exists in a legal grey area in China.
How do I pay for things in China?
WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate Chinese payments; many local businesses do not easily accept international cards. Set up WeChat Pay with an international bank card before arrival. Carry Chinese Yuan (CNY) cash as backup. ATMs at major banks (Bank of China, ICBC) accept international Visa and Mastercard reliably.
Is tap water safe to drink in China?
No. Tap water is not safe to drink in China. Use sealed bottled water or boiled water throughout your stay.
What airlines fly from Denmark to China?
Air China, China Eastern, and SAS fly Copenhagen (CPH) to Beijing (PEK) and Shanghai (PVG). Finnair via Helsinki and Lufthansa via Frankfurt are popular alternatives. Total flight time is approximately 10-12 hours.
Do Danish citizens need a visa to visit Hong Kong?
Hong Kong has its own immigration system separate from mainland China. Danish citizens can visit Hong Kong visa-free for 90 days independently of the mainland China 15-day exemption.