China has introduced a 10-day visa-free transit policy for passport holders from 54 countries, effective immediately. This initiative allows travelers to explore designated areas while transiting through 60 international ports, supporting tourism and business. With over 29 million foreign visitors this year, China aims to revitalize its economy post-COVID-19. Enhanced entry measures and additional ports facilitate travel, while experts welcome the changes as a positive step toward greater international engagement.
In an exciting development for international travelers, China has announced a 10-day visa-free transit policy, effective immediately. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) revealed that passport holders from 54 countries—including Australia, Japan, the United States, and several European nations—can now enjoy this extended stay in designated areas of mainland China while transiting through one of the country's 60 international ports.
The visa-free transit option, available since November 2023, allows eligible travelers to engage in tourism, business activities, or visit family. However, visas are still required for work, study, or media purposes, as noted by the NIA.
This initiative comes at a time when China has experienced a remarkable resurgence in tourism, with over 29 million foreign visitors recorded in the first 11 months of this year—a staggering 86 percent increase compared to the same period last year. This surge reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its economy by attracting foreign tourists and investment.
Following the lifting of strict COVID-19 restrictions, including a significant lockdown in Shanghai, China is keen to welcome visitors back. President Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of "building national strength in tourism" and fostering exchanges with international communities, particularly with the U.S.
To enhance the travel experience, the NIA has implemented several measures this year. These include simplifying entry and visa procedures and expanding banking services for foreigners. Since December of last year, China has also allowed visa-free entry for travelers from 38 countries, including France, Germany, and South Korea.
The introduction of additional ports of entry has further facilitated travel, increasing the total to 60. Under the new regulations, visitors can explore 24 provincial regions during their 10-day stay. This includes five newly added regions, such as Hainan Island and Guizhou, enhancing the options available for travelers.
While many regions allow for broad exploration, certain provinces, like Shanxi and Jiangxi, may restrict movements to specific cities. The NIA stipulates that travelers must have a passport valid for over three months and must hold tickets for onward travel to a third country within 10 days.
Jens Eskelund, head of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, expressed his support for the expanded visa-free transit policy, noting that it could enhance inbound business travel. He emphasized the need for clear guidance from authorities to fully leverage this opportunity.
Zha Daojiong, a professor at Peking University, remarked that "easing entry requirements and procedures for non-China passport holders is a step in the right direction," encouraging a better understanding of life in China among foreign visitors.
The NIA has indicated that the transit policy has been "comprehensively relaxed and improved," building on existing visa-free arrangements for travelers from various countries. While some travelers may still find the requirements limiting, the NIA remains optimistic about attracting more visitors to China.
Mao Xu, the deputy director of the NIA, affirmed that these changes aim to "improve entry convenience" and promote a welcoming environment for travelers engaging with China. Looking ahead, the country plans to further open its immigration management and foster a first-class business environment for all.
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