In a significant move to boost international travel and economic exchange, China's National Immigration Administration announced a comprehensive relaxation and optimization of its visa-free transit policy.
As of December 17, individuals from 54 eligible countries, including Russia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, can now take advantage of an extended visa-free stay of up to 240 hours (10 days) when transiting through China to a third country or region. This policy applies to 60 open ports across 24 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) in China.
On December 17, the first batch of passengers under the new policy arrived at Baiyun Airport in Guangzhou, marking a new chapter in China's efforts to facilitate easier and more convenient travel for international visitors.
Fomylina Olga, a Russian passenger who happened to be one of the first passengers to arrive at Baiyun Airport under the new visa-free transit policy, expressed her enthusiasm for the policy change, stating, "I think it's a great change because you can come to Guangzhou and stay here for a long period of time without any additional paperwork, and you can visit places like the Canton Tower and try local foods such as dim sum and tea."
The expanded policy not only allows travelers to experience the rich culture and cuisine of cities like Guangzhou but also offers a gateway to explore other parts of China. Olga mentioned her wishes to travel to Beijing and Hainan Island, highlighting the convenience of the new policy in allowing visitors to plan extensive trips within China without additional expenses or paperwork.
The policy's implementation comes with specific conditions and reminders. For one, the 240-hour stay period starts from the next day after entry. For instance, if a traveler enters China through Guangzhou Baiyun Airport on January 1, 2025, their stay period begins on January 2, and they can remain within the visa-free area for up to 10 days, exiting before January 11, 2025, through any of the approved exit ports.
In case of force majeure or other reasons requiring an extension beyond 240 hours, travelers must apply for the appropriate residence or stay documents from the local public security bureau's exit and entry administration department. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal penalties, including fines for illegal residence and potential impacts on future visa applications.
Travelers with passports or international travel documents valid for less than three months, or those with records of illegal entry, residence, or employment within the past five years, will not be granted temporary entry permits and thus cannot avail themselves of the 240-hour visa-free transit.
Baiyun Border Inspection Station reminds travelers of these conditions and encourages those with questions to reach out to the National Immigration Administration's 12367 service hotline, which operates 24/7 to provide policy consultations and answers.
