Germany ordinary-passport holders can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days in 2026 — enough for health checkups, specialist consultations, dentistry and many outpatient procedures. For treatment longer than 30 days, apply for an S2 medical visa before departure.

The S2 medical visa checklist

• Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
• Visa application form + compliant photo
• Hospital admission/invitation letter (stamped)
• Financial proof covering treatment and living costs (consulates often ask for ~US$10,000)
• Accompanying immediate family (max 2) apply for their own S2 visas with notarized kinship proof

Timeline: Apply 4–6 weeks before planned travel. The hospital admission letter is the critical document — it must come from a qualified institution, show the treatment plan and estimated duration, and carry the hospital's official seal.