China announced on Tuesday a significant relaxation of its visa-free transit policy, extending the permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers from the original 72 and 144 hours to 240 hours, or 10 days.
Effective immediately, 21 additional ports have been designated for visa-free entry and exit, and the areas in which transit travelers can stay have been expanded, according to a statement from National Immigration Administration.
Under the updated policy, eligible citizens from 54 countries (see list below), can enter China visa-free when transiting to a third country or region.
These travelers may now enter through any of the 60 ports across 24 provinces, regions and municipalities and stay within the designated areas for up to 240 hours.
Important Notes:
1) A notable feature of the policy adjustment is the introduction of cross-regional travel that allows foreign visitors to move freely across the 24 specified provincial-level regions during their 10-day stay.
2) You must have a valid international travel document with a validity period of not less than 3 months and meet the entry requirements for a third country (region).
3) You must also hold a connecting ticket to a third country (region) with a confirmed date and seat within 240 hours or relevant proof, fill out a temporary entry card for foreigners, and accept the inspection and inquiry of exit/entry border inspection authorities.
Citizens of the 54 countries with visa-free transit policies:
European countries (40): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway;
American countries (6): United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile; Oceanian countries (2) :Australia, New Zealand; Asian countries (6) : South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, UAE, Qatar.
Allowed Ports of Entry:
