China, a land of rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a coveted destination for travellers around the world. To make its wonders more accessible to international visitors, China has implemented various visa-free policies in recent years. These policies have opened up new avenues for travellers, encouraging cultural exchange, tourism, and economic growth. In this blog post, we will delve into China’s visa-free policies, highlighting the opportunities they present for globetrotters and the impact they have on tourism.
The Evolution of China's Visa-Free Policies
China’s visa-free policies have seen significant changes and expansions in recent times. The Chinese government recognizes the importance of tourism in boosting its economy and promoting its soft power globally. As a result, they have been actively working to streamline visa requirements and enhance the ease of entry for travellers from different countries.
Visa-Free Transit
One of the most prominent visa-free policies in China is the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) program, allowing travellers from various countries to transit through select Chinese cities without obtaining a visa. Typically, this policy applies to passengers with connecting flights, granting them a limited stay within the airport or a specific city for a set number of hours or days. There are two visa free transit policies: the 24-hour TWOV, available to passengers of most nationalities at most ports of entry and the 72/144-hour TWOV, available to certain nationalities and only through specific ports of entry.
Who is exempted from China visa?
Citizens of Japan, Singapore, and Brunei who visit China for the purpose of tourism, doing business, meeting relatives and friends, or transiting are visa exempt if the duration of stay does not exceed 15 days.
72/144-Hour Visa Free Transit
- Albania
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Chile
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Macedonia
- Malta
- Mexico
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Russia
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- UAE
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- United States
Before travelling to China you must inform your airline that you would like to take advantage of this programme and confirm that you will be permitted to board the airplane without a visa.
You must hold:
- Valid passports
- Onward travel tickets
- Proof of accommodation
72-hour visa free permit can be granted if you enter China via the following city or province:
- Changsha Huanghua International Airport
- Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
- Guilin Liangjiang International Airport
- Harbin Taiping International Airport
- Xi’an Xianyang International Airport
144-hour visa free permit can be granted if you enter China via the following city or province:
- Beijing
- Chengdu
- Hebei
- Jiangsu
- Kunming
- Liaoning
- Qingdao
- Tianjin
- Wuhan
- Xiamen
- Zhejiang
- Shanghai
Upon arrival, find the 72/144-hour visa-free counter at the immigration inspection to apply for the stay permit, which will be stamped in your passport indicating the maximum length of stay.
Conclusion
China’s visa-free policies have been a game-changer for the country’s tourism industry, offering travellers from around the world the chance to experience its rich history, captivating landscapes, and vibrant culture. These policies have not only boosted tourism revenue but have also fostered cultural exchange and regional development. By continuing to implement responsible and sustainable travel practices, China can safeguard its remarkable heritage and ensure that its doors remain open to the world for generations to come. So, why wait? Pack your bags and embark on an adventure to discover the wonders of China – a land that embraces diversity and cherishes its guests with open arms.
For the most up to date information please visit: China National Immigration Administration’s website
The safest option remains to apply for a visa in advance and we are here to assist you with your visa application
Here’s what our service includes but is not limited to:
- Advising you prior to your appointment
- Completing your visa application according to latest requirements
- Checking your documents
- Assisting you at the visa application centre
- Collecting and checking your visa
- Delivering your documents back to you
