Intro
The tropical paradise of Hainan Island in China has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike. To facilitate easier access to this idyllic destination, China has implemented a 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of 59 countries. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the Hainan 59 Country Visa-Free Entry Policy, including eligibility, application procedures, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Understanding Hainan 59 Country Visa-Free Entry Policy
· Eligibility for Hainan 59 Country Visa-Free Entry
The policy applies to citizens from 59 countries. Travelers must enter Hainan from a location outside of Mainland China and can stay for up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism, visiting relatives, or business (except for work and study).
The 59 countries are Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Norway, Ukraine, Italy, Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Monaco, Belarus, etc.
· Port Restrictions
Travelers must enter Hainan through designated ports, which include Haikou Meilan International Airport, Sanya Phoenix International Airport, and other specified ports on the island. It’s important to verify that your port of entry is eligible for the visa-free policy.
· Eligible Transit Routes
The policy is applicable for direct routes to Hainan from the traveler’s country of origin or residence. Travelers must have a confirmed onward journey to a third country or region after their stay in Hainan.
· Calculating Period
The 30-day period begins from 00:00 on the day following the date of entry into Hainan. For example, if you enter Hainan on June 1st, your 30-day period starts on June 2nd and ends on July 1st.
· Required Documents
To be eligible for the Hainan 59 Country Visa-Free Entry, travelers must possess:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- A confirmed round-trip or onward ticket.
- Sufficient funds to cover their stay in Hainan.
- No criminal record and in good health.
Applying for the Hainan 59 Country Visa-Free Entry
Upon arrival at a designated port in Hainan, travelers should:
- Inform the airline staff of your intention to use the visa-free entry policy.
- Complete the required immigration forms.
- Present your passport, onward ticket, and any other required documents to the immigration officer.
- Receive the visa-free entry permit and proceed with your journey into Hainan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I extend my stay beyond 30 days?
A: No, the Hainan 59 Country Visa-Free Entry Policy does not allow for extensions. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a visa before your 30 days are up.
Q: Can I leave Hainan and re-enter within the 30-day period?
A: Yes, you can leave and re-enter Hainan multiple times within the 30-day period as long as you have a valid onward ticket to a third country.
Q: Do I need to notify any authorities before traveling to Hainan?
A: No pre-notification is required, but it’s advisable to carry documents that verify your purpose of visit, such as hotel reservations or business invitations.
Q: Can I travel to other parts of China while in Hainan?
A: The visa-free entry policy for Hainan is limited to stays within Hainan Province. Travel to other parts of China requires a separate visa.
Visa Exemption Agreement between China & Foreign Countries (maximum single stay of 30 days)
· China and Georgia
Citizens holding a valid ordinary passport of the People’s Republic of China or a valid ordinary passport of Georgia are exempt from visa application when entering, exiting or transiting the other contracting party, with a single stay of no more than 30 days and a cumulative stay of no more than 90 days within 180 days.
· China and Singapore
Representatives of the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Singapore signed the “Agreement between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Singapore on Mutual Visa Exemption for Ordinary Passport Holders” in Beijing on the same day. The agreement will officially take effect on February 9, 2024. At that time, ordinary passport holders of both sides can enter the other country without a visa and stay for no more than 30 days. Those who enter the other country to engage in work, news reporting and other activities that require prior approval, as well as those who intend to stay in the other country for more than 30 days, must obtain the corresponding visa before entering the other country.
· China and Thailand
On January 28, representatives of the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand signed the Agreement between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand on Mutual Visa Exemption for Ordinary Passport Holders in Bangkok, Thailand. The agreement will officially take effect on March 1, 2024. At that time, Chinese personnel holding official ordinary passports and ordinary passports and Thai personnel holding ordinary passports can enter the other country without a visa for a single stay of no more than 30 days (a cumulative stay of no more than 90 days in every 180 days). Those who enter the other country to engage in work, study, news reporting, settlement and other activities that require prior approval, as well as those who intend to stay in the other country for more than 30 days, must obtain the corresponding visa before entering the other country.
· List of Agreements on Mutual Visa Exemption
You an download the list of agreements on mutual visa exemption here.
Conclusion
The Hainan 59 Country Visa-Free Entry Policy offers a convenient way for eligible travelers to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Hainan Island. By understanding the policy’s requirements and restrictions, you can plan your trip with confidence. As with any travel policy, it’s important to stay updated on the latest regulations and requirements. Enjoy your visa-free adventure in Hainan!
