China First Timer
China's 30-day visa-free entry is set to end on 31 December 2026. Will it be extended?

Do citizens of Mali need a visa for China?

Rules for ordinary passports from Mali, mainland China only (Hong Kong and Macao have their own rules). Checked 23 October 2026.

Yes, you need a visa.

Citizens of Mali need a visa (for tourism, an L visa) to visit mainland China, unless a transit or Hainan rule below applies.

240-hour visa-free transit

Mali is not on the 240-hour visa-free transit list. A 24-hour direct transit without a visa is still available to most nationalities when you connect to an international flight.

Applying for a Chinese tourist (L) visa

For a trip that doesn't fit transit, citizens of Mali apply for an L visa at a Chinese embassy, consulate or Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Expect an application form, a photo, your passport and supporting documents such as flight and hotel bookings. Check fees and processing times with the embassy or visa center that serves you.

More on applying for a visa

Check your exact trip: days, route and onward flight.

Open the visa checker

Official sources

Rules change. Confirm with the National Immigration Administration or your nearest Chinese embassy before you book.

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