China Visa RequirementsFor Spain passport holders
China introduced visa-free entry for Spanish citizens in 2023, allowing stays of up to 15 days for tourism, business, transit, or visiting family. This policy has been extended and applies to passport holders of Spain and other approved countries.
Great news! Spain passport holders can enter China without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 15 days.
No visa required for stays up to 15 days. Spanish passport with at least 6 months validity needed. Register at your accommodation within 24 hours of arrival (hotels do this automatically; private stays require registration at the local police station). VPN use is required to access Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp from within China.
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
Spain to China: What You Need to Know
China opened its borders after COVID-19 restrictions and introduced reciprocal visa-free access for multiple European countries including Spain. The 15-day limit is strict - overstaying is a serious offense. For longer stays, a traditional Chinese visa (applied through the Chinese Embassy in Madrid or Barcelona) is required.
How to Get There
Direct flights from Madrid serve Beijing and Shanghai (Air China, Iberia via alliances). China high-speed rail (HSR) network is world-class and connects major cities efficiently. The HSR app or trip.com allows booking in advance.
Money & Banking
China uses the Chinese yuan/renminbi (CNY/RMB). Cash is used less frequently in cities where WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate. Foreign tourists can link international cards to WeChat Pay or Alipay. Withdraw CNY at airport ATMs on arrival.
Practical Tips
Beijing (Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven), Shanghai (Bund, Yu Garden), Xi'an (Terracotta Army), Chengdu (pandas, spicy food), Guilin (karst mountains), and Hong Kong are top destinations. China is vast - plan around specific regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Spanish citizens need a visa to visit China?
Spain is included in China's visa-free policy for stays up to 15 days for tourism, business, transit, or visiting family. For longer stays, apply for a Chinese visa (L visa for tourism) at the Chinese Embassy in Madrid or Barcelona.
How long can Spanish citizens stay in China visa-free?
Up to 15 days per visit under the current reciprocal visa-free policy. This period cannot be extended. For longer stays, obtain a Chinese tourist visa (L visa) before travel at the Chinese Embassy. The consulate in Madrid processes most applications.
Will my Spanish passport have Israeli stamps and cause problems entering China?
Chinese immigration typically does not have issues with Israeli stamps in Spanish passports. Unlike some Middle Eastern countries, China does not restrict entry based on Israeli stamps.
Do I need a VPN in China?
Yes. Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and many other Western services are blocked in China. Download a reliable VPN (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark) before arriving in China, as VPN download websites are also blocked within China. WeChat is the essential local communication app.
What currency does China use?
China uses the Chinese yuan/renminbi (CNY/RMB). Cash is less common in cities where WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate. International tourists can link foreign bank cards to WeChat Pay and Alipay since 2023. Withdraw CNY at major airport ATMs (UnionPay, ICBC, Bank of China accept Visa/Mastercard).
Are there direct flights from Spain to China?
Yes. Air China and Iberia (through Oneworld alliance) operate direct flights from Madrid to Beijing (Capital Airport, approximately 10.5 hours) and Shanghai (Pudong, approximately 11 hours). Other options include connections via Paris, Frankfurt, or Middle Eastern hubs.
Is China safe for Spanish tourists?
China is very safe for tourists by international standards. Crime rates are low. However, political sensitivities require awareness: avoid discussing Tibet, Taiwan, Xinjiang, or Tiananmen Square in political contexts. Follow all photography restrictions. Carry your passport at all times as it may be requested for ID.