Exciting News: China Now Offers 10-Day Visa-Free Transit for Travelers!

In a game-changing move for international tourism, China has officially extended its visa-free transit policy, allowing eligible foreign travelers to stay for up to 240 hours, or 10 days. This significant update was announced by the National Immigration Administration (NIA) on December 17, reflecting China's commitment to attracting more visitors to the bustling nation.

The new visa policy is effective immediately and is applicable to citizens from 54 countries, including major nations like Russia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. Travelers transiting from China to a third country can now enter the country without a visa at any of the 60 open ports across 24 provinces. However, the stay is limited to specified areas for the duration of up to 240 hours.

This move follows China's reopening of borders earlier this year after three years of stringent lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The government has been eager to reinvigorate the tourism sector, shifting its strategy to waive visa requirements and encourage international visitors to explore everything the world's second-largest economy has to offer.

Earlier in November, the Chinese Foreign Ministry revealed that the country had already expanded its visa-free policy to 38 countries. Nationals from Spain, Singapore, and the Netherlands, among others, can visit China for up to 30 days without needing a visa for various reasons, including business, tourism, family visits, exchanges, and transit.

The results of these policy changes are already evident. In the third quarter of 2024, the number of inbound trips to China surged to 8.2 million, marking an impressive 48.8% increase year-on-year. Notably, over half of these visits were made possible by the recently introduced visa-free regulations, illustrating their effectiveness in boosting China's tourism market.

Are you planning a trip to China? Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to experience the rich culture, history, and modern marvels that the country has to offer! Whether you're wandering through the ancient Forbidden City or savoring delectable street food in Chengdu, now you can explore more, stay longer, and indulge in the wonders of China without the hassle of a visa.