China has significantly expanded its visa-free travel policies in 2025, making it easier than ever for international travelers to explore the country. From extended transit periods to new mutual visa exemptions, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the latest policies, eligibility requirements, and practical tips for a smooth journey.
Introduction to China’s Visa-Free Policies
In recent years, China has implemented several visa-free travel policies to boost tourism and facilitate international exchanges. These policies include extended transit visa exemptions, unilateral visa-free entry agreements, and mutual visa exemptions with specific countries. The updates for 2025 represent a significant step towards making China more accessible to global travelers.
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy
Key Updates
- The visa-free transit period has been extended from 72 or 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days).
- The number of eligible ports has increased to 60, covering 24 provinces.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizens from 54 countries are eligible, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Brazil.
Note: Consult the official list of countries eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy from the National Immigration Administration of China.
- Travelers must hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region within the 240-hour window.
Application Process
Eligible travelers can apply for visa-free transit at designated ports upon arrival. No pre-arrival application is necessary.
Geographic Coverage
The 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows eligible travelers to explore designated areas in China. While the policy covers 24 provinces, there are specific limitations in certain regions. Below is the geographic coverage:
Entire Provinces Eligible
Travelers can explore the following provinces in their entirety during the visa-free transit period:
- Anhui Province
- Hainan Province
- Guizhou Province
Limited Areas in Certain Provinces
Some provinces have restrictions on where travelers can go:
- Shanxi Province: Limited to the cities of Taiyuan and Datong.
- Jiangxi Province: Limited to the cities of Nanchang and Jingdezhen.
Unilateral Visa-Free Entry Policies
China has implemented unilateral visa-free entry policies for citizens of select countries.
Key points include:
- Citizens of countries such as Austria, Australia, and Germany can enter China without a visa for up to 15 days for tourism or business purposes.
- This policy is valid until December 31, 2025.
- Travelers must still meet standard entry requirements, including a valid passport and return ticket.
Mutual Visa Exemption Agreements
China has signed new mutual visa exemption agreements with several countries. Notable among these is:
- An agreement with the Solomon Islands allowing mutual visa-free entry for up to 30 days per visit or a cumulative stay of 90 days within any 180-day period.
- Similar agreements are being negotiated with other countries to promote bilateral exchanges and tourism.
Regional Visa-Free Entry Expansions
The expansion of visa-free transit to new provinces opens up more of China to international travelers:
- Five new provinces—Shanxi, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hainan, and Guizhou—have been added under the expanded visa-free transit policy.
- This expansion enables visitors to explore lesser-known destinations rich in cultural and natural heritage.
- Travelers can now experience a wider range of China’s diverse landscapes and cultures during their visa-free stay.
Revalidation of Pre-Pandemic Visas
For those who held Chinese visas before the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Multiple-entry visas issued before March 28, 2020, are now valid if still within their original validity period.
- Expired visas require reapplication under current regulations.
- Travelers should check the status of their pre-pandemic visas before planning their trip.
Practical Tips for Visa-Free Travelers
To ensure a smooth trip under these new policies:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel dates.
- Carry a confirmed onward ticket showing your departure within the allowed time frame.
- Stay within the permitted regions during your visa-free period to avoid penalties.
- Keep your travel documents, including entry stamps and boarding passes, readily available.
- Register with local police within 24 hours of arrival if staying at a private residence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I extend my visa-free stay?
A: No, extensions are not allowed under the current visa-free policies. You must depart within the specified period.
Q: What happens if I miss my onward flight?
A: Contact local immigration authorities immediately to resolve your status. You may need to apply for a visa or face penalties.
Q: Are there restrictions on activities during the visa-free period?
A: Yes, activities such as employment or formal study are prohibited without proper authorization. The visa-free stay is intended for tourism, transit, or short-term business activities.
Q: Can I enter China through one port and exit through another under the visa-free transit policy?
A: Yes, as long as both ports are included in the list of 60 designated visa-free transit ports and you stay within the permitted regions.
China’s updated visa-free policies for 2025 offer exciting opportunities for international travelers to explore this diverse country. By understanding these policies and following the guidelines, visitors can enjoy a hassle-free experience while discovering China’s rich culture, history, and landscapes. Always check for the most current information before your trip, as policies may be subject to change.
Complete list of ports, categorized by province or region:
Beijing
- Beijing Capital International Airport
- Beijing Daxing International Airport
Tianjin
- Tianjin Binhai International Airport
- Tianjin Seaport (Passenger)
Hebei
- Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport
- Qinhuangdao Seaport (Passenger)
Liaoning
- Shenyang Taoxian International Airport
- Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport
- Dalian Seaport (Passenger)
Shanghai
- Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport
- Shanghai Seaport (Passenger)
Jiangsu
- Nanjing Lukou International Airport
- Wuxi Sunan Shuofang International Airport
- Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport
- Lianyungang Seaport (Passenger)
Zhejiang
- Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport
- Ningbo Lishe International Airport
- Wenzhou Longwan International Airport
- Yiwu International Airport
- Wenzhou Seaport (Passenger)
- Zhoushan Seaport (Passenger)
Anhui
- Hefei Xinqiao International Airport
- Huangshan Tunxi International Airport
Fujian
- Fuzhou Changle International Airport
- Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport
- Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport
- Wuyishan International Airport
- Xiamen Seaport (Passenger)
Shandong
- Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport
- Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport
- Yantai Penglai International Airport
- Weihai Dashuibo International Airport
- Qingdao Seaport (Passenger)
Henan
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport
Hubei
- Wuhan Tianhe International Airport
Hunan
- Changsha Huanghua International Airport
- Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport
Guangdong
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport
- Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport
- Nansha Seaport (Passenger)
- Shekou Seaport (Passenger)
Hainan
- Haikou Meilan International Airport
- Sanya Phoenix International Airport
Chongqing
- Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport
Guizhou
- Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport
Shaanxi
- Xi’an Xianyang International Airport
Shanxi
- Taiyuan Wusu International Airport
Heilongjiang
- Harbin Taiping International Airport
Jiangxi
- Nanchang Changbei International Airport
Guangxi
- Nanning Wuxu International Airport
- Guilin Liangjiang International Airport
- Beihai Fucheng Airport
- Beihai Seaport (Passenger)
Sichuan
- Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport
- Chengdu Tianfu International Airport
Yunnan
- Kunming Changshui International Airport
- Lijiang Sanyi International Airport
- Mohan Railway Port
Note:
Newly added ports include those in regions such as Shanxi, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hainan, and Guizhou, which were not previously part of the visa-free transit program.
Travelers must adhere to the permitted areas of stay within these regions and ensure their onward travel plans comply with the visa-free transit requirements
Related article: Hainan’s 59-Country Visa-Free Policy Explained: Your Guide to Easy Travel and Entry
