🇨🇳 China’s 10-Day Visa-Free Transit Expanded in 2025: Who Can Enter and How It Works

China has rolled out an exciting travel update for 2025: a visa-free transit policy that now includes 55 countries. This move allows eligible travelers to stay in China for up to 240 hours (10 days) without needing a visa. It’s a golden opportunity for tourists and business visitors planning a short stay or transit through the country.

What is China’s 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

The visa-free transit policy lets travelers from specific countries stay in China without a visa, as long as they are transiting to a third destination. Here are the key conditions:

• Stay up to 240 hours (10 days)
• Must be en route to a third country (not just round-trip travel)
• Must have a valid passport and an onward ticket
• Must enter and exit through approved ports and remain within designated regions

This is ideal for travelers looking to explore China briefly or attend short business functions without the complexity of a full visa application.

Recommended: Study in China with the Jiangsu Jasmine Scholarship 2025

Benefits of the Visa-Free Transit Policy

1. Saves Time and Cost
Skip the visa appointment queues and fees. If you’re eligible, you just need an onward ticket and valid passport.

2. Perfect for Multi-Country Trips
Heading to multiple countries in Asia or beyond? This gives you a great chance to add China to your itinerary.

3. Business Convenience
Short-term meetings, trade shows, or business visits can now happen without waiting weeks for a visa.

4. Explore Top Chinese Cities
This policy allows travelers to explore key cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.

Who Can Use the 10-Day Visa-Free Transit in 2025?

Here’s the full list of the 55 countries eligible for this policy:

Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom.

Entry Points and Requirements

To benefit from the 240-hour transit policy, travelers must:

• Arrive and depart through designated international airports or seaports
• Show proof of onward travel to a third country or region
• Stay within the cities or provinces permitted by the transit policy
• Exit China within the 10-day limit

Major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou are part of this scheme and have dedicated processing counters for visa-free transit travelers.

What You Can Do in China During the 10-Day Stay

Whether you’re a tourist or a professional, the visa-free stay gives you ample time to:

• Visit cultural landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, or the Terracotta Army
• Attend trade shows, client meetings, or networking events
• Connect with friends, relatives, or business partners
• Enjoy local cuisine, shopping, and sightseeing across permitted cities

Why This Policy Matters in 2025

China is clearly signaling its intent to re-engage with the global community post-COVID. By extending this policy, the country aims to:

• Boost inbound tourism
• Encourage short-term business travel
• Rebuild international connections
• Offer travelers more itinerary flexibility in Asia

This update benefits frequent flyers, digital nomads, travel influencers, and business executives alike.

Pro Travel Tip

If you’re planning to use the visa-free transit:

• Make sure your third destination is clearly listed on your ticket
• Print out all supporting documents (accommodation, return flight, etc.)
• Double-check the list of eligible ports before booking your flight

Final Thoughts

China’s expanded visa-free policy is a strategic and traveler-friendly update for 2025. With simplified access and broad eligibility, it’s a great chance to add a fascinating stop to your global itinerary—without the paperwork hassle.

FAQs

Can I travel to more than one city during my 240-hour stay?
Yes, but only within the permitted regions specified by your port of entry. Check local rules carefully.

What counts as a third country for visa-free transit?
Your next destination must not be your departure country. For example, flying from Germany to China to Thailand qualifies.

Do I need to apply in advance for this visa-free entry?
No, just ensure you meet all conditions and present your documents at immigration upon arrival.

Is this available at all airports in China?
No. Only select ports of entry are included. Confirm that your entry and exit airports are part of the visa-free program.

Can I extend my stay beyond 240 hours?
No. If you need more time, you must apply for a regular visa in advance.

By planning wisely, this policy can give you a seamless and enriching short visit to China in 2025.