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China
San MarinoDo China Citizens Need a Visa for San Marino in 2026?
San Marino is a microstate entirely surrounded by Italy. While San Marino itself does not require a visa for short-term visits, there is no airport or border crossing into San Marino that doesn't involve traversing Italian territory. Therefore, you must hold a valid multiple-entry Schengen Visa to enter Italy and subsequently travel to San Marino.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Apply for a Schengen Visa (Italy)
Apply for a Schengen Visa through the Italian Embassy or Consulate in China, stating your intention to visit San Marino as part of your Italian itinerary.
Travel to Italy
Fly into a nearby Italian airport, such as Bologna (BLQ) or Rimini (RMI), using your valid Schengen Visa.
Transit to San Marino
Take a bus, taxi, or drive a rental car from Italy into San Marino. There are no formal border checks.
Get a Souvenir Stamp
Although not required, you can visit the state tourism office in San Marino to purchase a decorative passport stamp for a small fee.
Required Documents
- —Valid Chinese passport (at least 6 months validity)
- —Valid multiple-entry Schengen Visa (Type C)
- —Confirmed return flight ticket from Italy
- —Proof of accommodation in Italy and/or San Marino
- —Travel medical insurance covering the Schengen Area
Important Tips
- •Since there are no border controls between Italy and San Marino, you will not receive an entry stamp automatically. Do not let your Schengen Visa expire while inside San Marino.
- •Ensure your Schengen Visa allows for multiple entries if you plan to exit the Schengen zone (e.g., to the UK) and return.
- •Rimini is the most common gateway city; a bus ride from Rimini train station to San Marino takes less than an hour.
Easiest Way to Get It
Applying for an Italian Schengen Visa is the standard and necessary procedure. Once in Italy, accessing San Marino is a simple and scenic drive.
Latest Visa News: China ↔ San Marino
Great news for China passport holders! San Marino has upgraded visa access from visa required to visa-free.
Great news for China passport holders! San Marino has upgraded visa access from visa required to visa-free.
San Marino has changed visa requirements for China citizens from visa-free to visa required.
San Marino has changed visa requirements for China citizens from visa-free to visa required.
Great news for China passport holders! San Marino has upgraded visa access from visa required to visa-free.
What about San Marino → China?
San Marino→ChinaDiscover San Marino
San Marino is a land of timeless charm, perched atop the rugged Mount Titano in the heart of Italy. As the world's oldest sovereign state and republic—founded in A.D. 301—it offers a unique blend of medieval history and breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic coast. Its cobblestone streets, soaring fortresses, and proud independence make it a truly legendary European destination.
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