On December 17, 2024, China’s National Immigration Administration announced a comprehensive easing and optimization of its transit visa exemption policy. Effective immediately, the permitted stay duration for eligible foreign nationals under the transit visa exemption has been extended from the original 72 or 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days). Additionally, 21 new ports have been added as entry/exit points for transit visa-exempt travelers, and the permitted activity zones have been significantly expanded.
Eligible travelers from 54 countries transiting through China to a third country/region may enter visa-free through any of 60 open ports across 24 provinces/municipalities and stay within designated zones for up to 240 hours.
Major change: The new policy allows inter-provincial travel within permitted zones across 24 provinces/municipalities, unlike the previous 72/144-hour policies that restricted travelers to the entry province (e.g., Chongqing).
This policy expansion marks a significant step in China’s international cooperation efforts, fostering deeper global engagement and facilitating cross-border business, cultural exchange, and tourism.
Q1: How to apply for the 240-hour transit visa exemption at Chongqing Port?
A: Eligible travelers may process visa-free entry at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport Terminal 3 if they meet these requirements:
Q2: How is the 240-hour stay period calculated?
A: The stay period begins at 00:00 on the day following entry. For example, if entering China on December 19, 2024, the stay period starts on December 20 and expires at 24:00 on December 29 (10 days).
Q3: Which areas are permitted for activities under the 240-hour policy?
A: Unlike the previous 144-hour policy (e.g., restricted to Chongqing), the new policy permits inter-provincial travel across 24 provinces/municipalities. Travelers may enter/exit through any of the 60 designated ports and freely plan their itineraries within the permitted zones.
Q4: What if I need to stay beyond 240 hours or travel outside permitted zones?
A: Those requiring extended stays due to emergencies (e.g., medical treatment, humanitarian reasons) or needing to travel beyond permitted zones must apply for a stay permit at local immigration offices with valid documentation.
Q5: How does the 240-hour transit exemption differ from mutual/single-sided visa exemptions?
A: Some countries on the 54-nation list (e.g., France, Australia, South Korea, UAE) already benefit from mutual visa exemption agreements or unilateral visa exemptions with China, allowing stays of up to 30 days. Travelers from these countries may choose the most suitable policy (transit exemption or mutual exemption) based on their itinerary and prepare documents accordingly.
1. Permitted Activities for Visa-Exempt Visitors
Visa-exempt foreign nationals may engage in tourism, business, visits, or family reunions during their stay. However, activities requiring prior approval—such as employment, study, or journalistic reporting—still mandate obtaining the appropriate visa before entering China.
2. Requirements for 240-Hour Transit Visa Exemption
Foreign nationals entering under the 240-hour transit visa exemption policy must:
Register temporary accommodation with local public security authorities at their place of stay within 24 hours of entry.
Plan their itinerary in advance and strictly adhere to the designated administrative areas covered by the policy. Travel beyond permitted zones is prohibited.
3. Emergency Entry for Ineligible Foreign Nationals
Foreigners who do not qualify for visa exemption but require urgent entry to Chongqing may apply for a port visa through the Chongqing Exit-Entry Administration Bureau.
For inquiries, contact:
National Immigration Administration Hotline: 12367
Chongqing Port Visa Office:
Tel: (+86) 23-63961955
Email: [email protected]
European Countries (40):
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Croatia, Norway, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Monaco, Belarus.
American Countries (6):
United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.
Oceanian Countries (2):
Australia, New Zealand.
Asian Countries (6):
South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar.