China Extends Visa-Free Transit Stays to 10 Days at 60 Ports, Expands Policy to 54 Countries

Dec 17, 2024, 02:18 AM

China has announced a significant relaxation of its visa-free transit policy, effective from December 17, 2024, extending the permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers from the original 72 and 144 hours to 240 hours, or 10 days. This policy applies to passport holders from 54 nations, including Australia, Japan, the United States, and various European countries, who can now stay up to 10 days in certain areas of mainland China when transiting via one of the country's 60 international ports in 24 provincial regions. The policy aims to facilitate inbound tourism and boost consumption post the reopening of China's borders. Additionally, China has expanded its unilateral visa-free entry policy to include nine more countries, including Japan, effective November 30, 2024, allowing a 30-day stay for purposes such as business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, exchange visits, and transit. This policy will remain in effect until December 31, 2025.