China’s 144-hour visa-free transit policy allows travelers from many Western countries to stay in China for up to six days without requiring a visa. This policy is available to citizens from 54 countries, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, and many European nations, provided they are transiting through China to a third country.
Visitors must enter through specified cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou and are required to show a confirmed ticket for onward travel to a third country within 144 hours. The goal of the policy is to make short visits easier for transit passengers while boosting tourism in the country. The visa-free period starts from midnight the day after arrival, and travellers need to ensure they remain within the designated cities or provinces until their departure.
It’s a great way to explore China on a layover without needing to go through the lengthy visa process. Six days is perfect for a short trip to cities like Beijing or Shanghai.
Eligible Countries
Citizens from 54 countries are eligible for the 144-hour visa-free transit. Many Western nations included in this list are: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Austria, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Ireland, Hungary, Luxembourg.
Note: This list is subject to change, so it’s essential to verify your eligibility based on the most current regulations.
Purpose and Duration
- Duration: Travelers can stay in the designated regions of China for up to 144 hours (6 days) without obtaining a visa.
- Purpose: The stay is intended for transit purposes, allowing travelers to explore China briefly while en route to another destination.
Designated Ports of Entry and Exit
To utilize the 144-hour visa-free transit, travelers must enter and exit China through specific ports. These ports are categorized by region:
Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei Province
- Airports:
- Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
- Tianjin Binhai International Airport (TSN)
- Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW)
- Railway Stations:
- Beijing West Railway Station
Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang Provinces
- Airports:
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
- Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)
- Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH)
- Ningbo Lishe International Airport (NGB)
- Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG)
- Seaports and Cruise Terminals:
- Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal
- Xiamen Port International Cruise Terminal
Guangdong Province
- Airports:
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
- Seaports:
- Shenzhen Shekou Cruise Homeport
- Guangzhou Port
Sichuan Province
- Airports:
- Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)
- Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)
- Cities: Chengdu, Leshan, Deyang, Suining, Meishan, Ya’an, Ziyang, Neijiang, Zigong, Luzhou, Yibin
Yunnan Province
- Airports:
- Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG)
- Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG)
- Railway Ports:
- Mohan Railway Station (China-Laos border)
- Cities: Kunming, Lijiang, Xishuangbanna, Yuxi, Pu’er, Chuxiong, Dali, Honghe, Wenshan
Other Regions
- Cities: Xi’an, Wuhan, Xiamen, Chongqing
- Airports: Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY), Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (WUH)
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 144-hour visa-free transit, travelers must:
- Hold a Passport from one of the eligible countries.
- Have a Confirmed Onward Ticket to a third country within the 144-hour period.
- Enter and Exit Through Designated Ports as listed above.
- Not Intend to Reside Permanently in China during the transit period.
- Meet Health and Security Requirements, including not having any disqualifying criminal records or health issues.
Application Process
At the Port of Entry:
- Present your passport.
- Show your confirmed onward ticket to a third country.
- Provide any additional documentation if requested by immigration authorities.
Upon Arrival:
- Immigration officers will grant a temporary entry permit valid for 144 hours.
- The 144-hour period begins at 00:00 on the day following your arrival.
Restrictions and Conditions
- Stay Within Designated Areas: Travelers must remain within the regions specified by the policy. Exiting these areas without a proper visa can lead to penalties, including fines or deportation.
- No Employment Allowed: The visa-free transit does not permit any form of employment or business activities.
- Accommodation Registration: If staying in a hotel, the hotel will handle the registration with local authorities. If staying with friends or family, registration at the local public security bureau is required within 24 hours.
- Exit Through the Same Port: Except in Guangdong Province, travelers are generally required to exit through the same port they entered.
Common Reasons for Denial
- Ineligibility: Holding a passport from a non-eligible country.
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing onward tickets or other required documents.
- Previous Immigration Violations: History of overstaying or violating Chinese immigration laws.
- Health or Security Concerns: Any health issues or security threats identified by authorities.
Benefits of the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit
- Convenience: Simplifies the transit process for short stays without the need for a full visa application.
- Flexibility: Allows travelers to explore multiple cities within the designated regions.
- Boost to Tourism: Encourages more international visitors, contributing to China’s tourism sector.
Recent Updates (As of 2024)
- Expansion of Eligible Countries: Recent additions may include more Western nations, enhancing the policy’s accessibility.
- Enhanced Port Facilities: Improvements in designated ports to better accommodate transit travelers.
- Extended Duration for Specific Countries: Certain countries like Norway have been granted extended visa-free periods (e.g., 15 days).
Important Considerations
- Plan Your Itinerary Carefully: Ensure all activities and movements are within the permitted regions to avoid legal complications.
- Check for Policy Updates: Immigration policies can change, so always verify the latest information before traveling.
- Understand Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with Chinese laws and regulations to ensure compliance during your stay.
