Visa-Free China for Dutch Citizens! 🇳🇱 ➡️ 🇨🇳
Geweldig news for Dutch travelers! Since November 30, 2024, Dutch citizens with ordinary passports can visit China without a visa for up to 30 days. This policy remains in effect until December 31, 2025.
Essential Information Summary
| Visa Status | Visa-Free Entry |
|---|---|
| Maximum Stay | 30 days |
| Passport Type | Ordinary Dutch passport only |
| Entry Purpose | Tourism, business, transit, family visits |
| Policy Duration | November 30, 2024 – December 31, 2025 |
Entry Requirements for Dutch Citizens
✅ Required Documentation:
- Valid Dutch passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Return or onward flight ticket proving departure within 30 days
- Proof of financial means for your China stay
- Clean immigration history (no previous China deportations or bans)
✅ Allowed Activities:
- Tourism and leisure travel
- Business meetings and trade visits
- Visiting friends and family
- Transit through Chinese cities
- Cultural and educational exchanges
Important Restrictions & Guidelines
❌ Prohibited Activities:
- Employment or work (requires proper work visa and permits)
- Formal education or study (requires student visa)
- Professional journalism (requires press credentials)
- Extended stays over 30 days (requires standard tourist visa)
🚨 Critical Points:
- Single entry limitation – cannot exit and re-enter China during the visa-free period
- No extensions available – must depart China before the 30-day limit
- All border points accepted – airports, seaports, and land crossings
Netherlands-China Travel Options
Direct Flight Connections:
- Amsterdam Schiphol to Beijing – KLM and China Eastern direct flights
- Amsterdam to Shanghai Pudong – Multiple daily options
- Rotterdam to Guangzhou – Cargo route with passenger options
Dutch Traveler Tips:
- Language preparation – Dutch rarely spoken; English more common in international areas
- Cycling culture – China’s bike-sharing systems will feel familiar
- Digital payments – Cashless society; set up Alipay or WeChat Pay
- Business etiquette – Relationship-building crucial for Dutch business travelers
Planning Extended Stays?
Dutch citizens needing more than 30 days must apply for a regular Chinese tourist visa through Chinese consulates in the Netherlands or authorized visa service providers.
Prepare for Cultural Amazement! 🎋
From floating markets that dwarf Amsterdam’s to mega-cities with more people than the entire Netherlands – China will redefine your sense of scale and possibility!
Last Updated: August 2025
Source: Chinese Embassy in the Netherlands and official immigration authorities
Ready to explore China? Check out our comprehensive guides to Dutch-friendly destinations, must-try cuisines, and essential cultural navigation tips!