CHINA. The National Immigration Administration of the People’s Republic of China announced yesterday (15 July) that its 144-hour visa-free transit policy has been expanded to cover three additional ports, taking the total number to 37.
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Henan Province, and Lijiang Sanyi International Airport and Mohan Railway Port, both in Yunnan Province, are all now included in the policy.
For those arriving through Xinzheng International Airport, the permitted stay area covers the entire administrative region of Henan Province.
The scope of the policy in Yunnan Province will be expanded from Kunming City to nine additional municipal administrative regions, including Kunming, Lijiang, Yuxi, Pu’er, Chuxiong, Dali, Xishuangbanna, Honghe, and Wenshan.
Those exempt from obtaining a visa include citizens from 54 listed countries holding valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets with fixed dates and seats for travel to a third country or region within 144 hours of arrival at any of the above-mentioned ports.
Visitors may stay in the designated areas for no more than 144 hours and engage in short-term activities such as tourism, business and family visits.
According to officials from the National Immigration Administration, the 72/144-hour visa-free transit has significantly contributed to the country’s opening up, facilitated communication between Chinese and foreign nationals, and promoted international exchanges and cooperation since the policies were introduced in January 2013.
The recent expansion of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy offers more options for foreign nationals travelling to China for tourism and business.
The National Immigration Administration will continue to optimise the visa-free transit policy, welcoming foreign nationals to China with a more open attitude and fully supporting and promoting high-quality development. ✈️
