Plan · Visa & entry
China visa for South Africa citizens
South African passport holders are eligible for 30-day visa-free entry to mainland China as of 2024. Hong Kong 30 days visa-free.
Current status (verified May 2026)
South African ordinary passport holders are eligible for the 30-day visa-free entry to mainland China for tourism, business, family visit or transit. South Africa was included in the 2024 expansion, as part of China's strengthening of BRICS-related bilateral ties.
What you need at the border
- Passport valid at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
- Onward ticket.
- Hotel booking or address.
- Digital arrival declaration.
BRICS context
South Africa is a fellow BRICS member alongside China. Government, commercial, and academic exchanges are active; the 30-day visa-free window accommodates most delegation and research visits. Chinese infrastructure investment in South Africa has also grown.
Scope
Tourism, business meetings, family visits. Tibet requires the Tibet Travel Permit. Stays beyond 30 days need an L visa from the Chinese Embassy in Pretoria or the Consulate-General in Cape Town or Johannesburg.
Hong Kong and Macau
South African passport-holders are visa-free for Hong Kong (30 days). Macau — verify before travel.
Practical notes
Johannesburg–Beijing is the primary long-haul route; connections via Gulf or Asian hubs are common. Flight times are approximately 14–17 hours with connections.
Embassy: Embassy in Pretoria; consulates in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban