Explore China Without a Visa: 54 Countries Now Eligible for Visa-Free Transit

Effective November 17, 2023, citizens of as many as 54 countries are now eligible for China’s visa-free transit policy, that can enjoy a 72/144-hour visa-free stay in designated Chinese cities. This expansion further facilitates international travel and promotes cultural exchange.

The official announcement, made by the China National Immigration Administration (NIA), brings about new opportunities for Norwegian citizens starting from November 17.

Expanded Access in 23 Chinese Cities

Citizens of 54 countries can now benefit from the 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy across 23 Chinese cities. This expansion covers a total of 20 cities and 29 entry and exit ports, opening up diverse travel possibilities within the country.

China 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit

With China’s 72/144 hour Visa-Free transit, you can enjoy a short-term stay in 23 Chinese cities, engaging in activities like tourism and business visits. This initiative promotes seamless travel, fostering cultural exchange between China and eligible countries.

The extension of China’s visa-free transit policy encompasses citizens from 54 countries. These include:

Also Read: China Simplifies Visa Application Process to Attract Global Travellers

Eligible Cities and Travel Conditions

Foreign nationals holding valid passports from eligible countries can enjoy a 72/144-hour visa-free stay in 23 designated Chinese cities, provided they meet the following conditions:

• Possess an interline ticket (connecting ticket) with a confirmed departure date and seat number for a third country or region within the time limit.
• Enter and exit China from eligible ports.
• Remain within the permitted cities and regions.

Scope of Permitted Activities

During their stay, visitors can engage in short-term activities such as tourism and temporary business visits. This initiative aims to promote cultural exchange and boost tourism between China and the qualifying nations.

72-Hour and 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policies

China currently offers two visa-free transit policies:

72-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

Details regarding the eligible city, designated entry and exit ports, and the permissible scope of travel under the 72-hour visa-free transit policy are outlined below:

144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

The designated city, specified entry and exit ports, and the permissible travel scope under the 144-hour visa-free transit policy are outlined below:

• This policy applies to 20 cities: Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Qinhuangdao, Shanghai, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Jieyang, Shenyang, Dalian, Qingdao, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xi’an, Xiamen, Wuhan, and Kunming.

Expanded Visa-Free Transit Policy

By extending its visa-free transit policy to more countries, China demonstrates its commitment to promoting international travel and cultural exchange.

This expansion will undoubtedly facilitate business opportunities, tourism, and personal connections between China and the rest of the world.