Intro

On December 17, 2024, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) declared that it would optimize and completely relax the visa-free transit policy, which will take effect immediately. For foreigners who qualify for visa-free transit, the stay period has been increased from 72 and 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days). To further increase the number of places where visa-free transit travelers are permitted, 21 ports of entry and exit have been added. Visa-free entry is available through any of the 60 open ports in 24 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) for people from 54 eligible countries who are traveling from China to a third country (region). They can remain in the designated areas for visa-free transit travelers for a maximum of 240 hours.

Understanding China’s 10-Day Visa-Free Entry Policy

• Eligibility for the 10-Day Visa-Free Transit

The new policy allows citizens from 54 countries, including Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States,to enjoy a visa-free stay of up to 10 days when traveling from China to a third country (region). This policy is designed for those who are in transit and meet specific eligibility criteria.

• Port Restrictions

The policy has been expanded to include 21 additional ports of entry and exit, increasing the total number of ports from 39 to 60. These ports are spread across 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, significantly enhancing the convenience for visa-free transit travelers.

• Eligible Transit Routes

Travelers must be en route to a third country or region to qualify for the visa-free transit policy. Direct flights to and from China without a stopover do not qualify for this policy. The traveler’s passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date from China.

• Calculating Period

The 240-hour period begins from the moment of entry into China and must be completed within the specified time frame. It is crucial for travelers to plan their itinerary accordingly to ensure they do not overstay the visa-free period.

• Required Documents

While visa-free entry eliminates the need for a visa, travelers are still required to present a valid passport, onward travel tickets, fill out arrival card for temporary entry foreigners and cooperate with checks by exit-entry border inspection authorities.

Applying for the 10-Day Visa-Free Entry Permit

Applying for the 10-day visa-free entry permit is a straightforward process. Upon arrival at one of the designated ports, travelers should proceed to immigration control and inform the officer of their intention to utilize the visa-free transit policy. No separate application or pre-approval is required. However, it is advisable to check with the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate for any updates or specific requirements that may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I leave and re-enter China within the 240-hour period?

A: No, the 240-hour policy applies to a single entry. Leaving and re-entering China would require a new entry permit.

Q: Do I need to pre-book accommodation?

A: While not mandatory, it is recommended to have confirmed accommodation to present upon arrival as proof of your itinerary within the visa-free period.

Q: Can I travel outside the specified regions during my stay?

A: Travel is restricted to the regions specified by the local public security bureau. It is essential to check the allowed areas for each port of entry.

Q: What happens if I need to extend my stay beyond 240 hours?

A: Extensions are subject to approval by the local public security bureau. It is best to plan your trip to fit within the visa-free period to avoid complications.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the number of times I can use this policy?

A: Based on the information provided by the National Immigration Administration (NIA) of China and general visa policies, there is no explicit mention of a limit on the number of times a traveler can utilize the 10-day visa-free transit policy as long as each visit complies with the policy’s conditions. However, the policy is designed for travelers in transit to a third country or region. If you repeatedly enter China without actually traveling to a third country, authorities may question the purpose of your visits and could potentially deny the visa-free entry in the future.

Conclusion

China’s 10-day visa-free entry policy is a significant step towards enhancing the travel experience for eligible travelers. With more time to explore and a wider range of entry points, China is becoming increasingly accessible. As with any travel regulation, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest updates and adhere to the policy’s terms to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Plan your trip wisely, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry that China offers.