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Whether you need a visa for China depends on your nationality, trip purpose, and length of stay: citizens of many European countries, plus Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, and several Gulf states can enter visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, or visiting relatives; those transiting to a third country can stay up to 10 days (240-hour transit scheme) visa-free with a valid passport and onward tickets; everyone else, or anyone staying longer, must apply in advance for the appropriate visa (e.g., an L tourist visa or M business visa) at a Chinese embassy or consulate. Note that your passport should be valid for at least six months, that Hong Kong and Macau have separate immigration rules, and that policies change frequently—always verify your eligibility with official sources before booking.