Visas are generally required for everyone entering China. However, citizens of Singapore, Brunei and Japan who hold ordinary passports are allowed to enter China without visas for up to 15 days for tourism, visiting family or friends, or minor business purposes (not including news gathering) provided they enter and exit through China’s international ports open to foreigners. All other citizens and situations require a visa. If you are unsure what type of visa to apply for, the local Chinese consulate will look at your papers and purpose of travel to determine the type of visa you should receive.