China Extends Fingerprint Waiver for Short-Term Visas Through 2026

China is easing travel rules for visitors. The Chinese government has confirmed that eligible short-term visa applicants will not need to provide fingerprints for visa applications through December 31, 2026. This change benefits tourists, business travellers, family visitors, and people passing through China.

What the Fingerprint Waiver Means

Starting December 17, 2025, Chinese consular authorities extended a policy that waives the requirement to collect fingerprints for most short-term visas that allow stays of 180 days or less. This update comes from the Consular Affairs Department of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and it aims to simplify the application process for visitors.

Visas Covered by the Waiver

Short-term visa categories now included in the waiver are:

• Tourist visas (L)

• Business visas (M)

• Family visit visas (Q2/S2)

• Transit visas (C)

The expansion now also includes multiple-entry visas, which previously required fingerprints only for some categories.

This change means fewer steps to apply for a visa and no requirement for a biometric appointment at many Chinese embassies and visa centres worldwide. Embassies across Europe, Asia, North America, Africa, the Middle East, and Oceania have already started implementing this policy locally.

Who Still Must Provide Fingerprints

The fingerprint waiver does not apply to all visa types. Applicants for long-term, residence, or work visas still must submit biometric data. These include:

• D Visa (Residence)

• J1 Visa (Work/Internship)

• Q1 Visa (Family Reunion)

• S1 Visa (Family Visit)

• X1 Visa (Study)

• Z Visa (Work)

Biometric requirements for these categories remain because they involve longer stays or residence permits.

Why China Is Introducing This Change

Fingerprint checks were introduced in 2019 as part of tighter biometric screening. After the pandemic, China began adjusting its entry policies to encourage travel and economic exchange. The initial temporary fingerprint exemption launched in August 2023 and has been extended multiple times with wider coverage. This latest extension recognizes the importance of smoother entry procedures for travel and business.

What This Means for Travellers

✈️ Easier Visa Application

With fingerprints no longer required, many travellers can submit their short-term visa applications without scheduling a separate biometric appointment, reducing waiting times and paperwork.

📅 Up to 180 Days Stay

The exemption applies only to visas allowing stays of up to 180 days. If you plan a longer visit, study, work, or residency, biometric data will still be needed.

🌍 Global Rollout

Chinese embassies and visa centres worldwide are already updating procedures, meaning the new rules apply broadly — from Asia to Europe and beyond.

This update is especially good news for travellers planning visits to China in 2026 and beyond — whether for tourism, business trips, or visiting family.

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