China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy now covers 57 eligible countries following the addition of Vietnam and Kyrgyzstan on August 20, 2026.
The expansion was announced by China's National Immigration Administration and provides more qualifying international travelers with the opportunity to visit China for up to 10 days while transiting to another country or region.
What Is China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy?
The 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows eligible travelers to enter China without obtaining a conventional visa in advance, provided they meet the relevant transit requirements.
The maximum permitted stay is 240 hours, equivalent to 10 days.
This arrangement can be useful for travelers who wish to explore a Chinese city or region during a journey between two different countries or regions.
However, it is not the same as China's separate unilateral or bilateral visa-free entry arrangements.
Vietnam and Kyrgyzstan Added in August 2026
Effective August 20, 2026, ordinary passport holders from Vietnam and Kyrgyzstan became eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit program, subject to its conditions.
According to the National Immigration Administration, qualifying travelers from these countries may enter through any of the 65 designated ports and remain within the permitted areas for up to 240 hours.
The expansion increased the number of eligible countries to 57.
Important Eligibility Requirements
Travelers planning to use the policy should check several key conditions before departure.
Eligible nationality: The traveler must hold a passport from a country covered by the policy.
Onward travel: The itinerary must include confirmed onward transportation to a third country or region.
Approved entry port: Travelers must enter through a designated port covered by the policy.
Permitted travel area: Visitors must remain within the areas authorized under the transit arrangement.
Length of stay: The visit must not exceed the permitted transit period.
Travelers should verify all conditions with the National Immigration Administration or the relevant Chinese embassy or consulate before traveling.
What Can Travelers Do During the Transit Period?
Eligible visitors can use their stay for tourism, business visits, family visits and other permitted short-term activities.
Travelers may be able to explore historical landmarks, experience regional cuisine and visit cultural attractions within their authorized travel area.
Activities such as employment, study and journalism that require prior approval are not covered by the transit arrangement and generally require the appropriate visa.
Planning a Short Visit to China
For travelers using the 240-hour transit policy, a well-organized itinerary can help make the most of the available time.
Depending on the approved entry and exit ports and permitted travel areas, visitors may consider sightseeing in cities such as Beijing or Shanghai, or other eligible destinations.
Travelers should avoid assuming that the policy permits unrestricted travel throughout China.
Before booking transportation or accommodation, it is important to confirm that the entire proposed itinerary complies with the transit rules.
Explore China with SEEK CHINA TRAVEL
A transit stop can be an opportunity to experience China's history, food and contemporary culture.
SEEK CHINA TRAVEL (SCT) helps international visitors design private and tailor-made itineraries, including shorter city experiences and multi-day journeys.
All travel arrangements should be planned around the visitor's applicable entry requirements and permitted stay.
Discover China. Your Way.
Sources:
National Immigration Administration of China, Announcement No. 4 of 2026, August 20, 2026.
https://en.nia.gov.cn/n147418/n147468/c217849/content.html
State Council of China / Xinhua, August 20, 2026.
https://english.www.gov.cn/news/202608/20/content_WS6a866e4fc6d00ca5f9a0cb76.html