China Extends 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy: Are you eager to explore China without the hassle of obtaining a China visa? Your dream is now a reality! China has expanded its 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy to include 55 countries, with Indonesia being the latest addition.
This significant update, announced on June 12, 2025, opens China’s doors to tourists and business travelers alike, allowing them to experience its rich culture and vibrant cities.
What’s New in the Policy?
The 240-hour visa-free transit, also known as Transit Without Visa (TWOV), now covers 24 provincial regions. Travelers can enter China through 60 approved air, land, and sea ports, including major hubs such as:
Shanghai Pudong and Hongqiao Airports
Beijing Capital International Airport
Xi’an, Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Kunming
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
Previously limited to fewer countries and ports, this policy now allows citizens from Indonesia, Russia, the UK, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and more to explore China without a tourist visa, provided they are transiting to a third country.
How Does It Work?
Here’s what you need to know about the updated policy:
Eligibility: You must be a citizen of one of the 55 approved countries.
Purpose: Travel must be for tourism, short business visits, family, or cultural exchange. Work, study, and media-related activities are not allowed.
Proof Required: You need a valid onward ticket to a third country (e.g., Singapore → China → South Korea).
Stay Duration: You can stay for up to 240 hours (10 days), starting from 00:00 the day after arrival.
No Extensions: You must exit within the allowed period—no exceptions.
Allowed Regions: Travel is permitted within the designated 24 provinces, enabling multi-city visits during your stay.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
This expansion is part of China’s strategy to revitalize tourism and enhance global exchange after COVID-19. The policy follows a December 2024 update that added 21 new entry ports. For travelers, this means:
Cheaper and faster stopovers for long-haul flights through Chinese cities.
Opportunities to visit iconic sites like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Terracotta Army during layovers.
Options for networking and business meetings in key economic regions without needing a separate visa.
Convenient access to China’s rich culture, cuisine, and innovation.
What’s the Bigger Picture?
With all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations now enjoying visa-free access—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—China is promoting regional integration. The addition of Indonesia further enhances this traveler-friendly approach, positioning China as a leading global transit hub.
Ready to Transit Through China?
Whether you are traveling to East Asia, connecting from Europe to Australia, or heading from the Gulf to Japan, this 240-hour visa-free policy offers a fantastic opportunity. It’s your golden ticket to experience an unforgettable adventure in China—without the need for a visa. Start planning your journey today!
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