Whether you need a visa to visit Chengdu depends on your nationality, the duration of your stay, and your travel itinerary. Most international travelers require a pre-approved visa to enter mainland China; however, as of 2025, citizens from 76 countries can enjoy visa-free entry for periods of 15 to 30 days for tourism, business, or family visits. Additionally, Chengdu is a key port for China's 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy, which allows travelers from 54 eligible countries—including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom—to enter without a visa if they are transiting through Chengdu to a third country or region. To utilize this transit exemption, you must hold a valid passport with at least three months of validity and a confirmed onward ticket to a third country. For those not eligible for these exemptions, a standard tourist (L) visa must be obtained through a Chinese embassy or consulate prior to arrival, requiring a valid passport, an application form, and proof of travel arrangements like flight and hotel bookings. Regardless of your visa status, all foreign visitors must register their accommodation with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival.