Unlock China’s 10 Days Visa-Free Popular Transit Zones

In a major development, China’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) has officially announced the full relaxation and optimization of its visa-free transit policy, now effective immediately. This update is set to significantly benefit foreign nationals traveling through China, offering a new stay duration of 240 hours (10 days)—an extension from the previous limits of 72 and 144 hours.

Expanded Eligibility and Access for Visa-Free Travelers

The updated visa-free transit policy applies to nationals from 54 eligible countries, including Russia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. These travelers, when en route from China to a third country or region, can now enter visa-free through any of the 60 open ports spread across 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities.

The most significant change in this updated policy is the addition of 21 new ports of entry. These new points of entry, located across diverse regions such as Shanxi, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui (Huangshan), Fujian, Jiangxi, Shandong, Hunan (Zhangjiajie), Guangxi, Hainan, Sichuan (Chengdu), and Guizhou (Guiyang), expand the number of open ports for visa-free travelers from 39 to 60. This offers greater flexibility and convenience for travelers looking to explore China during their layovers.

Cross-Regional Freedom During the 10-Day Stay

One of the most exciting aspects of this new policy is the introduction of cross-regional travel. This feature allows foreign nationals to move freely across all 24 provincial-level regions during their 10-day visa-free stay, unlocking a host of tourism opportunities across China’s most iconic provinces. Whether you’re interested in the bustling streets of Chengdu, the scenic beauty of Zhangjiajie, or the cultural depth of Shanghai, this new policy grants more freedom to explore various regions during your stay.

This visa-free transit policy adjustment marks a significant shift in China’s approach to international tourism and trade. With an extended stay period and more entry points, foreign nationals can now enjoy an easier and more flexible travel experience. Whether you’re a business traveler, tourist, or transit passenger, this new policy ensures greater access to China’s rich cultural heritage, modern cities, and stunning natural landscapes.

Key Benefits of the New Visa-Free Transit Policy

• Extended stay duration: Travelers can now stay up to 10 days (240 hours) without a visa.
• More entry points: The number of visa-free ports has increased from 39 to 60, including major regions like Chengdu, Zhangjiajie, and Hainan.
• Cross-regional travel: Foreign nationals can move freely across 24 provinces, offering unparalleled flexibility during their 10-day stay.

This updated visa policy is poised to enhance China’s appeal as a global transit hub and travel destination. If you’re planning your next international trip with a stopover in China, take advantage of this extended visa-free transit opportunity for a smooth, extended layover experience.

Conditions for Foreign Nationals Applying for the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit in China

China has significantly expanded its visa-free transit policy, allowing foreign nationals to stay for up to 240 hours (10 days) without a visa. However, there are specific eligibility requirements and conditions that must be met for travelers to benefit from this new policy. Below are the key conditions:

1. Eligible Countries

Only nationals from 54 countries are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit. These countries are divided into regions as follows:

• Europe (40 countries):
  Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, and Norway.
• America (6 countries):
  United States of America, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Chile.
• Oceania (2 countries):
  Australia and New Zealand.
• Asia (6 countries):
  Republic of Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.

2. Valid Travel Document

Applicants must hold a valid international travel document (such as a passport), which must remain valid for at least three months from the date of arrival in China. Additionally, the applicant must meet the requirements for entering the third country or region they are traveling to after China.

3. Documentation for Third-Country Travel

Travelers must have confirmed onward tickets (e.g., interline passenger tickets) to a third country or region. The tickets should clearly show the date and seat for departure within 240 hours of arrival in China. Additionally, travelers must complete the Arrival Card for Temporary Entry Foreigners and fully cooperate with the exit-entry border inspection authorities during checks and inquiries.

4. Submitting the Application

Foreign nationals who meet all of the above conditions can submit their application to the border inspection authorities at one of the 60 open ports of entry across China. Major ports include Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Zhangjiajie. The visa-free transit period begins at 0:00 on the day after entry, and the applicant can stay for up to 10 days (240 hours).

5. Other Important Conditions

• Mutual Visa Exemption: If the applicant’s country has a mutual visa exemption agreement with China or benefits from China’s unilateral visa exemption, they will be subject to the relevant provisions of the agreement.
• The visa-free transit policy applies to those transiting through China on their way to a third country or region, not for tourism or other purposes.

This updated policy is an excellent opportunity for international travelers to explore China during layovers or business trips. Make sure to check the specific eligibility and document requirements before traveling to take full advantage of this streamlined and extended visa-free transit option.

List of Ports and Allowed Areas for Visa-Free Transit Travelers under the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

Foreign nationals eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy in China can travel across 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities for up to 10 days. Below is a comprehensive table listing the ports of entry and the permitted stay areas for visa-free transit travelers:

Remarks:

• Newly Added Ports: The dark text highlights the recently added ports, provinces, and permitted stay areas.

Stay tuned for further updates on entry requirements and other travel-related news!