China’s 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy: Eligible Countries and Entry Ports

Starting from December 17, 2024, the Chinese government has announced that eligible citizens from 54 countries (including Russia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and others) may transit through China visa-free when traveling to a third country/region. Under this policy, travelers can enter China through any of the 60 open ports across 24 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) and stay within designated areas for up to 240 hours (10 days) for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

Key Details:

• Eligible Countries: 54 nations, including but not limited to Russia, Brazil, the UK, the U.S., Canada, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and EU member states.
• Entry/Exit Ports: 60 authorized ports nationwide, covering major international airports, seaports, and land border checkpoints.
• Permitted Activities: Short-term stays for transit, tourism, or business meetings within specified regions.
• Requirements: Travelers must hold confirmed onward tickets to a third country/region and comply with entry/exit port regulations.

1. Eligible Countries

The 54 countries eligible for China’s transit visa exemption are categorized as follows:

• Europe (40 Countries)

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, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway.

• Americas (6 Countries)

United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.

• Asia (6 Countries)

South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, UAE, Qatar.

• Oceania (2 Countries)

Australia, New Zealand.

2. Chinese Ports and Areas Eligible for the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy