Chinese officials announced the stay duration for visa-free transit has been extended to 240 hours (10 days).

Key Points:

  • Officials published a notice regarding the visa-free transit policy, extending the stay duration for foreign nationals eligible for visa-free transit to 240 hours from the previous 72 hours and 144 hours.
  • Individuals from 54 eligible countries — including Brazil, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States — who are traveling from China to a third country can now enter China visa-free and stay within the allowed areas for no more than 240 hours.
  • Additionally, 21 ports of entry and exit have been added for visa-free transit, increasing the total number of open ports to 60 (from the previous 39).
  • The new policy also expands the number of provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) that can be visited to 24 provinces (from the previous 19).

BAL Analysis: Chinese government officials describe the policy as a relaxation and optimization of their visa-free transit policy that also demonstrates their commitment to promoting a high standard of opening and improved cultural exchange. In addition, the announcement highlights the priority of the government to accelerate cross-border flow, promote international communication and cooperation, and strive for high-quality development of the economy and society.

As BAL reported, the government also recently expanded its visa exemption policy to nine more countries. These efforts showcase a trend focused on immigration management that specifically updates policies to better facilitate entry and exit for immigrants and enhances the convenience for foreign nationals who want to study, work and live in China.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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