Do citizens of the Philippines need a visa for China?
Yes, you need a visa.
Citizens of the Philippines need a visa (for tourism, an L visa) to visit mainland China, unless a transit or Hainan rule below applies. Citizens of the Philippines can visit Hainan province visa-free for up to 30 days when entering through Hainan.
240-hour visa-free transit
The Philippines 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.
Hainan
Visa-free stays of up to 30 days in Hainan province when you enter through a Hainan port; you cannot travel on to the rest of mainland China on this basis.
Applying for a Chinese tourist (L) visa
For a trip that doesn't fit transit, citizens of the Philippines 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.
Check your exact trip: days, route and onward flight.
Open the visa checkerOfficial sources
- National Immigration Administration (NIA)
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, consular service
- Online arrival card (NIA)
Rules change. Confirm with the National Immigration Administration or your nearest Chinese embassy before you book.