The National Immigration Administration (NIA) of China has introduced significant changes to its visa-free transit policy, effective December 17, 2024. This policy upgrade increases the visa-free transit duration to 10 days (240 hours) and expands the number of eligible entry/exit ports to 60 across 24 provinces. These changes aim to bolster international connectivity, encourage economic exchange, and enhance China's appeal as a global destination.
Key Features of the Updated Visa-Free Transit Policy
Extended Stay Duration
Foreign travelers transiting through China can now stay for up to 240 hours (10 days) without a visa, allowing more flexible travel plans and opportunities for in-depth exploration of eligible regions.
Expanded Entry and Exit Ports
The total number of eligible entry and exit points has risen from 39 to 60, with 21 new ports added across major regions, including Shanxi, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Hainan, Sichuan, and Guizhou.
New Ports Added |
Shanxi: Taiyuan Wusu International Airport |
Jiangsu: Wuxi Sunan Shuofang Airport, Yangzhou Taizhou Airport |
Zhejiang: Wenzhou Longwan Airport, Yiwu International Airport |
Fujian: Fuzhou Changle Airport, Quanzhou Jinjiang, Wuyishan Airport |
Hainan: Haikou Meilan Airport, Sanya Phoenix International Airport |
Sichuan: Chengdu Tianfu International Airport |
Broader Regional Coverage
Visa-free travelers can now access 24 provinces, up from 19. Key updates include:
Entire provinces like Anhui, Hainan, and Guizhou are now accessible.
Expanded areas in regions like Fujian, Hubei, and Shaanxi now cover the entire province.
Guangxi allows access to 12 cities, including Nanning, Guilin, Beihai, and Liuzhou.
Provincial Accessibility Under Visa-Free Transit
No. | Province (Region, City) | Applicable Port(s) | Permitted Stay Area |
1 | Beijing | Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing Daxing International Airport | Beijing |
2 | Shanghai | Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, Pudong International Airport, Shanghai Seaport (Passenger) | Shanghai |
3 | Zhejiang | Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, Ningbo Lishe International Airport, Wenzhou Longwan Airport, Yiwu International Airport | Entire Province |
4 | Hainan | Haikou Meilan International Airport, Sanya Phoenix International Airport | Entire Province |
5 | Shanxi | Taiyuan Wusu International Airport | Taiyuan, Datong |
Eligibility for the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit
Eligible Nationalities
The visa-free policy applies to passport holders from 54 countries, including:
Europe: Schengen countries (25 nations), UK, Russia, Ireland, etc.
Americas: USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.
Asia: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, UAE, Qatar.
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.
Documentation Requirements
Travelers must present:
A valid passport with at least three months' remaining validity.
A confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region within 240 hours.
A completed landing card for foreigners in transit.
Strategic Implications
Economic Impact
The extended visa-free policy aligns with China's broader goal of enhancing international exchange and cooperation. It supports the strategies outlined at the Central Economic Work Conference (CEWC) by facilitating cross-border movement and fostering high-quality economic growth.
Travel Flexibility
With the removal of provincial boundary restrictions in eligible regions, travelers now enjoy greater flexibility to explore multiple provinces during their visa-free transit period.
Encouraging Tourism and Business
By simplifying the visa process and expanding transit durations, China strengthens its position as a premier destination for business, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Expanded Duration of Visa-Free Stay
Policy | Duration |
Pre-2013 Policy | 72 hours |
2013–2023 Policy | 144 hours |
2024 Upgrade | 240 hours |
China's enhanced 240-hour visa-free transit policy is a landmark initiative aimed at boosting international engagement and tourism. With expanded stay durations, more entry points, and broader travel coverage, the policy offers greater convenience and opportunities for foreign travelers. Businesses, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts can now experience China's diverse landscapes and thriving economy with unprecedented ease.
This policy underscores China's commitment to high-level openness and further solidifies its position as a global hub for business and leisure travel.
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