In an effort to rejuvenate its tourism sector, the Chinese government has announced an extension of the visa-free transit period for foreign tourists, allowing stays of up to 10 days, an increase from the previous three to six days.
China Expands Visa-Free Transit Policy to Attract Tourists
China Expands Visa-Free Transit Policy to Attract Tourists
China’s new policy allows travelers to stay up to 10 days without a visa, aiming to boost tourism and economic recovery.
The move comes as part of China’s strategy to attract international visitors after a prolonged period of travel restrictions due to geopolitical factors and the COVID-19 pandemic. As of 2023, travelers from 54 countries, including the United States, can enter China without a prior visa while in transit, provided they arrive at designated airports.
The Chinese authorities have emphasized their eagerness to welcome more foreign tourists, stating, "We invite more foreign friends to come to China and experience the beauty of the country in this new era firsthand." In addition to the change in stay duration, the government has also expanded the number of accessible ports of entry from 39 to 60 and significantly relaxed provincial travel restrictions, allowing visitors to journey across 24 provinces during their visa-free stay.
The new policy, effective immediately, reflects China's ongoing commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for international travelers, promoting cultural exchanges, and stimulating tourism-related economic recovery post-pandemic.
The Chinese authorities have emphasized their eagerness to welcome more foreign tourists, stating, "We invite more foreign friends to come to China and experience the beauty of the country in this new era firsthand." In addition to the change in stay duration, the government has also expanded the number of accessible ports of entry from 39 to 60 and significantly relaxed provincial travel restrictions, allowing visitors to journey across 24 provinces during their visa-free stay.
The new policy, effective immediately, reflects China's ongoing commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for international travelers, promoting cultural exchanges, and stimulating tourism-related economic recovery post-pandemic.
