240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy in China: Everything You Need to Know

China has recently extended its visa-free transit policy from 144 hours to 240 hours, providing travelers with up to 10 days of visa-free travel in designated regions. This policy, aimed at encouraging international tourism and business activities, applies to visitors from 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the new 240-hour visa-free transit policy, including eligible countries, entry points, permitted areas, and tips for maximizing your time in China.

What Is the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy?

The 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows travelers to transit through China and stay for up to 10 days without a visa, provided they meet specific criteria. This is a significant upgrade from the previous 144-hour visa-free policy, offering visitors more time to explore China’s diverse culture, history, and landscapes.

Who Is Eligible?

Travelers from 54 countries are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy. Key countries include:

Asia-Pacific

1. Australia
2. Brunei
3. Japan
4. New Zealand
5. Singapore
6. South Korea

Europe

7. Austria
8. Belgium
9. Czech Republic
10. Denmark
11. Estonia
12. Finland
13. France
14. Germany
15. Greece
16. Hungary
17. Iceland
18. Ireland
19. Italy
20. Latvia
21. Lithuania
22. Luxembourg
23. Malta
24. Netherlands
25. Norway
26. Poland
27. Portugal
28. Slovakia
29. Slovenia
30. Spain
31. Sweden
32. Switzerland
33. United Kingdom

North America

34. Canada
35. United States

South America

36. Argentina
37. Brazil
38. Chile

Oceania

39. Monaco

Eastern Europe and CIS

40. Belarus
41. Croatia
42. Russia
43. Ukraine

Middle East

44. Qatar
45. United Arab Emirates

Other Countries

46. Andorra
47. Bosnia and Herzegovina
48. Bulgaria
49. Cyprus
50. Liechtenstein
51. Macedonia
52. Montenegro
53. Romania
54. Serbia

To qualify, you must:

1. Hold a valid passport with at least three months of remaining validity.
2. Have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region.
3. Transit through one of China’s approved entry points (see below).

Approved Entry Points for 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit

Travelers can enter China visa-free via 60 designated ports across 24 provinces. Popular entry points include:

• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
• Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
• Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)
• Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)

This policy also expands to less-traveled provinces such as Shanxi and Anhui, providing new opportunities for exploration.

Where Can You Travel During the 240 Hours?

Under the policy, you must remain within the specified regions where you entered. For example:

• If you enter through Shanghai, you can explore Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces.
• If you enter through Beijing, you can travel within Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei province.

This allows for multi-city tours within defined areas, making it an excellent opportunity to visit cultural and historical landmarks.

Why Should You Use the 240-Hour Visa-Free Policy?

The new visa-free policy offers travelers numerous benefits:

1. Save Time and Money: Skip the hassle and cost of applying for a Chinese visa.
2. Discover China’s Highlights: Explore top destinations like the Great Wall, Shanghai’s Bund, or Guangzhou’s Canton Tower.
3. Flexible Itineraries: With 10 days, you can plan an immersive trip covering multiple cities.

Tips for Using the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit

1. Plan Your Trip Carefully: Ensure your arrival and departure cities fall under the same permitted area.
2. Prepare Documentation: Have printed copies of your passport, onward ticket, and hotel bookings.
3. Use Public Transportation: China’s high-speed rail and metro systems are efficient and traveler-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Trip to China Today!

With the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, China has become more accessible than ever. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, modern cities, or breathtaking natural scenery, this policy provides an ideal opportunity to explore the country hassle-free.

Start planning your trip to China today with Travel China With Me! Let us help you craft the perfect itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your visa-free adventure.