China Enhances Visa-Free Transit Policies
China has expanded its visa-free transit programme to include more ports and has extended visa exemptions for numerous countries, facilitating easier travel.
China Enhances Visa-Free Transit Policies
China announced the expansion of its 240-hour visa-free transit programme to include more ports, as of November 5. The policy aims to facilitate travel for visitors and is expected to increase the number of eligible ports from 60 to 65.
Updates on Visa-Free Entry
The expansion also involves extending unilateral visa-exemption arrangements for over 40 countries until December 31, 2026. This move aims to further open up the country, aligning with China’s strategy for enhanced global connectivity.
New Ports Added
The newly accessible ports include:
- Guangzhou
- Hengqin in Zhuhai
- Zhongshan
- The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge
- West Kowloon Station of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link
Travelers from 55 eligible countries can stay in China without a visa for up to 240 hours (ten days) before proceeding to a third destination, provided they come through designated ports.
Additional Prospective Changes
- Direct Transit Procedures: Ten international airports, including those in Tianjin and Nanjing, will enable 24-hour direct transit for foreign nationals, simplifying entry procedures.
- From November 20, online entry card completion will be available, offering a more efficient process for foreigners.
- Additional measures aim to ease travel for mainland Chinese residents visiting Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan.
As of Q3 2025, 7.246 million visits were recorded under visa-free policies, marking a 48.3% year-on-year increase, comprising 72.2% of foreign national entries into China.
This initiative follows significant recommendations from the Communist Party of China (CPC) and reflects the country’s commitment to expanding international cooperation and travel facilitation.
