China has introduced a significant upgrade to its visa-free transit policy, extending the allowed stay for eligible travellers from 72 and 144 hours to a generous 240 hours (10 days).

The policy, which took effect on December 17, 2024, provides more flexibility for travellers and is a significant improvement. 240 hours is about 10 days!

This means for those travelling to North Korea, you may not need to get the China visa. You can simply use the China transit visa to transit to go to North Korea. And spend some time exploring China, too! 

Here’s everything you need to know about China's visa-free transit policy.

China 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Key Features
Benefits for Travellers of the China Transit Visa
How to Plan your Visit Using China Transit Visa
China 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit FAQs

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Key Features of the China 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

1. Extended Duration

Eligible foreign travellers can now stay in China visa-free for up to 240 hours (10 days).

2. Expanded Ports of Entry and Exit

The number of eligible ports for visa-free entry and exit has increased from 39 to 60, covering major international airports, seaports, and even railway ports.

Newly added ports include:

3. Broader Travel Regions

Under the new China transit visa policy, you can access 24 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions, up from 19.

Popular tourist destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guangzhou are included, along with new regions such as Hainan and Guizhou.

Importantly, you can now cross provincial boundaries within the permitted areas.

4. Eligibility

Citizens of 54 countries are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy.

These include:

5. Documentation Requirements

To qualify for the China visa-free transit, you must present:

• A valid passport (valid for at least three months from the date of arrival).
• A confirmed interline ticket with a departure date and seat number to a third country or region.
• A completed landing card for foreigners.

6. To Note: Regional Considerations

While the policy covers most regions, certain areas like Tibet and Xinjiang require additional permits.

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Benefits for Travelers

1. Flexible Itineraries

The extended duration and expanded travel areas enable you to visit multiple cities without the hassle of applying for a visa!

2. Simplified Entry Process

The visa-free transit policy simplifies the entry process, especially for those transiting through China to a third country. 

A popular choice for those who find the traditional visa application process cumbersome.

3. Access to Major Tourist Attractions

Travelers can now explore iconic destinations such as:

• The Great Wall in Beijing
• The Bund in Shanghai
• Chengdu’s panda sanctuaries
• The karst mountains of Guilin
• Tropical beaches in Hainan

4. Enhanced Tourist Infrastructure

China has made additional improvements to attract foreign tourists, such as:

• Allowing non-Chinese credit cards on popular e-payment platforms like WeChat and Alipay.
• Ensuring international credit card acceptance at major tourist attractions and hotels.
• Providing built-in translation software for convenience.

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How to Plan Your Visit

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure your nationality is among the 54 eligible countries. Confirm your flight itinerary includes a stop in China en route to a third destination.

Step 2: Choose Your Entry Port

With 60 ports available, plan your arrival and departure based on proximity to your desired destinations.

Step 3: Verify Documentation

Prepare your valid passport, interline ticket, and completed landing card.

Check with your airline to confirm their boarding policies for transit visa exemptions.

Step 4: Create an Itinerary

Maximize your 240-hour stay by planning wisely!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I leave the designated regions?

No, you must stay within the designated provinces, municipalities, or autonomous regions outlined in the policy.

2. What happens if my stay exceeds 240 hours?

Overstaying the permitted duration may result in penalties. You MUST adhere to the 240-hour limit.

3. Are there any restrictions on activities?

The policy is intended for tourism and transit. 

4. Do Hong Kong and Macao count as third destinations?

Yes, both Hong Kong and Macao are considered third destinations.

5. Can I use this to enter North Korea? 

Yes, North Korea can count as your third destination. 

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Koryo Tours
North Korea Travel Experts