Under the latest policy, Australian citizens holding ordinary passports can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for purposes including tourism, business, visiting relatives, exchange, and transit. This favorable policy has been officially extended to December 31, 2026, offering greater flexibility for short-term clinical visits or medical checkups. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and prepare your return flight itinerary for a smooth entry.

The short answer is No.

If you are planning to visit China for a medical checkup (such as a full-body scan, specialized screening, or medical tourism), the current policy is exceptionally convenient for Australian citizens.

1. Am I Eligible for Visa-Free Entry?

• Yes. While the official visa-free categories are "Tourism, Business, Visiting Relatives, Exchange, and Transit," personal medical checkups or medical tourism are generally classified under "Tourism" or "Exchange."

• As an Australian ordinary passport holder, you can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days.

• There is no need to apply for a specific "Medical Visa" for short-term clinical visits or diagnostic screenings.

2. Essential Documents for Entry

To ensure a smooth immigration process at the border, we recommend carrying the following documents (either digital or printed):

• Medical Appointment Confirmation: If you have booked a session with a hospital or health screening center (e.g., iKang, Meinian Onehealth, or the International Department of a public hospital), bring your confirmation email or booking slip.

• Return Flight Ticket: Evidence that you intend to depart China within the 30-day limit.

• Hotel Reservation: Proof of your registered residence while in China.

3. Extended Stays for Surgery or Long-term Treatment

If your checkup reveals a need for surgery or prolonged hospitalization that will exceed the 30-day visa-free limit, you have two options:

• Applying for an Extension (While in China): You can apply for a "Stay Certificate" extension at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Entry and Exit Administration. This requires a formal diagnostic certificate and hospitalization notice issued by the hospital.

• Applying for an S2 Visa (Before Departure): If you know in advance that you require major surgery or recovery time exceeding 30 days, it is recommended to apply for an S2 Visa (Private Affairs) at a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre in Australia. You will need an official invitation or admission letter from your healthcare provider in China.

Whether you need a visa depends primarily on your recovery timeline. Under the current policy (valid through December 31, 2026), Australian ordinary passport holders have two distinct paths:

1. The 30-Day Visa-Free Path (For Minor Procedures)

If you are undergoing a routine or "walk-in" procedure—such as dental implants, corrective eye surgery, or minor cosmetic treatments—and your total stay is under 30 days, you do not need to apply for a visa.

• Entry Tip: You can enter under the "Exchange" or "Tourism" category.

• Recommendation: Always choose a hospital with an International Medical Services (IMS) department. These units are specifically staffed to provide the English documentation you will need for your flight home and follow-up care in Australia.

2. The S2 Medical Visa Path (For Major Surgery)

For complex surgeries (such as orthopedic, cardiac, or oncology treatments) requiring hospital stays or rehabilitation exceeding 30 days, you should apply for an S2 Visa (Private Affairs) before leaving Australia.

• Why S2? It provides legal standing for a longer stay and simplifies the process of requesting an extension at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) if your recovery is delayed by medical complications.

• Requirement: You must provide an Official Medical Invitation Letter from a Class 3 Grade A hospital in China. This letter must outline the diagnosis and the estimated duration of treatment.

• Family Support: Up to two immediate family members can apply for S2 visas simultaneously to accompany you as caregivers.