Jazmin Li
China has implemented a 24-hour visa-free transit policy for foreign nationals from all other countries at all its accessible exit-entry ports. Nationals from 54 countries holding valid international travel documents and connecting tickets with confirmed seats can apply for visa-free transits at the exit-entry border inspection authorities of the ports in the cities where the visa-free transit policies are in effect. This policy has been expanded to 60 eligible ports, with foreign travellers able to access 24 provinces across China. Travellers who are not from a visa-free country and wish to remain in China for more than 24 hours will need to apply for a 72 or 144-hour transit visa. This must be obtained before entering China and cannot be done on Chinese soil.
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What You'll Learn
China's visa-free transit policy
To be eligible for the visa-free transit policy, travellers must have a valid passport or another international travel document valid for at least three months from the arrival date, an interline ticket with a confirmed departure date and seat number for a third country within 144 hours, and a landing card for foreigners in transit. It is also important to note that travellers can only take advantage of this policy by booking at least two flights: one to any of the 60 approved Chinese ports and another to a third country departing within the allowed duration of stay.
The visa-free transit policy covers 60 eligible ports across 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in China. These include major international airports in regions such as Shanxi, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Anhui, Jiangxi, Shandong, Hunan, Guangxi, Hainan, Sichuan, and Guizhou. It is worth noting that travellers can arrive and depart from different eligible ports and are not restricted to staying within a specific region, allowing for cross-provincial travel.
Additionally, travellers should be aware that the visa-free transit policy does not apply to those entering China for work, study, or journalism purposes. They must also have the necessary supportive documents, such as invitation letters, flight tickets, and hotel reservation confirmations, to verify their purpose of visit.
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Ports and airports offering visa-free entry
China offers a 24-hour visa-free entry for travellers passing through the country as transit visitors. This rule applies to almost all ports of entry, including airports and cruise ports. However, travellers must remain within the transit port. If you plan to leave the transit port, you will need to apply for a temporary entry permit.
As of December 17, 2024, China added 21 new ports to its visa-free transit program, bringing the total number of eligible ports to 60 across 24 provinces. These ports include major international airports in regions such as Shanxi, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Anhui, Jiangxi, Shandong, Hunan, Guangxi, Hainan, Sichuan, and Guizhou.
Foreign nationals from 54 countries worldwide can benefit from a 72-hour visa-free entry offered at 38 exit or entry ports in 18 Chinese provinces. These countries include:
- Asia: Brunei, Japan, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates
- Europe: Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, and many others
Additionally, China offers regional visa-free transit policies. For example, tourist groups from ASEAN countries can enter and exit through the Guilin airport in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region without a visa, with a maximum stay of 144 hours. Foreign tourist groups travelling by cruise ship and organized by Chinese travel agencies can also enter China without a visa through one of the ports in 13 specified cities, including Beihai, Dalian, Guangzhou, Haikou, and Lianyungang.
It is important to note that to be eligible for visa-free transit in China, travellers must be continuing on to a third country. Entering China under the visa-free transit policy without continuing travel to another country will be considered illegal entry.
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Requirements for visa-free entry
China has a 24-hour visa-free transit policy for foreign nationals from all countries at all its accessible exit-entry ports. This policy applies to almost all ports of entry, including major international airports in regions such as Shanxi, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Anhui, Jiangxi, Shandong, Hunan, Guangxi, Hainan, Sichuan, and Guizhou. This means that travellers passing through China do not need a visa as transit visitors. However, it is important to note that this policy only applies if you are going on to a third country after leaving China.
To be eligible for visa-free transit, foreign nationals must have a valid passport or another international travel document valid for more than three months from the arrival date. They must also have an interline ticket (connecting ticket) with a confirmed departure date and seat number leaving for a third country or region within 144 hours. Additionally, individuals must fill out a landing card for foreigners in transit upon arrival in China. It is also encouraged to bring other supporting documents, such as invitation letters, flight tickets, and hotel reservation confirmations, to help verify the purpose of the visit.
It is important to pay attention to the permitted arrival airports and make sure that your itinerary is within the permitted areas to avoid crossing into an area where you are not allowed. This visa-free transit policy does not apply to individuals coming to China for work, study, or journalism purposes.
For stays longer than 24 hours, individuals may need to apply for a 72 or 144-hour Transit Visa, depending on their nationality and port of entry. It is important to check the specific requirements for your nationality and port of entry, as the eligibility criteria may vary.
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How to apply for a visa on arrival
In most cases, travellers passing through China do not need a visa, as the country has a 24-hour visa-free policy that applies to almost all ports of entry. However, if you plan to stay for more than 24 hours, you will need to apply for a transit visa. This can be done at the Municipal Public Bureau at the airport or station, but you must be from a visa-free country.
If you are unable to obtain a visa before your arrival in China, you may be able to secure a port visa or visa on arrival (VOA). This is available to foreigners who are in an emergency, especially if it is business-related or a matter of life and death. An invitation letter from an accredited Chinese organisation will be required, along with other supporting documents.
- Ensure you have a valid passport: Your passport must be valid for more than three months from the arrival date.
- Have the necessary documents: In addition to your passport, you may need an interline ticket (connecting ticket) with a confirmed departure date and seat number leaving for a third country within 144 hours. You may also need a landing card for foreigners in transit, which can be filled out upon arrival. It is encouraged to bring other supporting documents, such as an invitation letter, flight tickets, and hotel reservation confirmations, to help verify your purpose of visit.
- Apply for the Pre-Acceptance Receipt: If you are facing an emergency, you can apply for a 'Pre-Acceptance Receipt' by emailing [email protected]. This will allow you to board flights to China.
- Complete the visa application process: Once you arrive in China, proceed to the 24/7 Port Visa Offices in Beijing airports to complete the visa application process.
- Obtain your visa: The visa will typically be issued within 5 to 10 minutes. The allowed stay period for visas on arrival can vary, with some visas permitting a stay of up to 30 days.
It is important to note that not all applicants are guaranteed to obtain a landing visa, so it is advised to obtain a visa in advance if time permits. Additionally, the VOA is not available to passport holders from certain countries, including Afghanistan, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, and many others.
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The risks of not having a visa
China has a 24-hour visa-free policy for travellers passing through the country as transit visitors. This rule applies to most ports of entry, and travellers can stay for 24 hours without needing a visa. However, if you plan to leave the airport and enter the country, you will need to apply for a transit visa if you are not from a visa-exempt country.
- Denied Entry: If you do not have the required visa for your destination country, you will likely be denied entry upon arrival. This can result in deportation back to your home country or the country from which you travelled.
- Delays and Inconvenience: Travellers without the necessary visas may be detained for questioning, causing delays and inconvenience. This can disrupt travel plans and cause missed connections or cancellations.
- Visa Application on Arrival: In some cases, travellers may be able to apply for a visa on arrival, but this is not guaranteed and may depend on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the immigration officials. This process can be stressful and time-consuming.
- Financial Loss: If you are denied entry due to a lack of visa, you may lose any financial investments made in your trip, including flight and accommodation costs.
- Legal Consequences: Entering a country without the required visa can be considered illegal entry, which may result in legal repercussions. This could potentially impact your ability to travel to that country or other countries in the future.
- Security Risks: Without the proper visa and documentation, travellers may be seen as security risks, which could lead to increased scrutiny and potential denial of entry.
- Missed Opportunities: Not having the correct visa can result in missed opportunities, such as business deals, tourism experiences, or personal connections that could have been made during the intended trip.
- Damage to Reputation: In some cases, travelling without the necessary visa can reflect poorly on the traveller's reputation, especially if they are travelling for business or other official purposes.
It is always advisable to check the visa requirements for your destination country well in advance of your travel dates and to ensure that you have the necessary visas and documentation before embarking on your journey.
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Frequently asked questions
Travellers passing through China are granted 24-hour visa-free access. However, if you plan to leave the airport and enter China, you will need to apply for a transit visa if you are not from a visa-free country or plan to stay for more than 24 hours.
To be eligible for a transit visa, you must have a valid passport, a connecting ticket to a third country, and a landing card for foreigners. You must also apply for the transit visa before entering China.
The duration of stay for transit visas varies. Depending on the port of entry, travellers may be eligible for a 72-hour or 144-hour transit visa. In some cases, travellers may be able to obtain a visa upon arrival that allows for a stay of up to 30 days.
Yes, citizens of certain countries are exempt from the transit visa requirement. These countries include the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many European countries.
