China recently updated its transit visa policy, extending the allowed stay from 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days). This change gives travelers more time to explore the country during a layover or short visit. Let’s help you understand China’s new 240-hour transit visa, including its history, how to apply, and where you can go.
A Look Back at China’s Past 144-hour Transit Visa Policy
China introduced its visa-free transit option in 2013, allowing travelers to stay for up to 72 hours. In 2016, the limit was increased to 144 hours, giving visitors more flexibility. Now, with the extension to 240 hours, travelers can enjoy up to 10 days in China without needing a traditional visa.
What’s Changed with the 240-Hour Transit Visa
The main update is the longer stay, which has increased from 6 days to 10 days. The cities and regions travelers can visit remain the same, but the extra time makes it easier to enjoy China’s major attractions or attend short-term business events.
How to Apply for the Transit Visa
Getting the 240-hour visa is simple:
- Check your eligibility: Make sure your passport is from one of 53 approved countries.
- Have an onward ticket: You’ll need a confirmed ticket to a third country or region.
- Enter at the right port: Arrive through one of the approved airports, seaports, or land checkpoints.
- Show your travel plans: Have your onward ticket and any required visas for your next destination ready.
When you arrive, let immigration officials know you’re using the 240-hour transit visa.
Where You Can Go with the 240-Hour Transit Visa
This visa allows you to travel within specific areas, including:
- Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei region
- Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang region
- Guangdong province
- Other regions like Sichuan, Chongqing, Shaanxi, and Yunnan
Remember, you must stay within the region you entered and cannot travel to other parts of China.
Rules and Limitations to Know
- You cannot stay longer than 240 hours (10 days).
- Your entry and departure must be from the same region.
- This visa is for transit only—you must be traveling to a third country.
Final Thoughts on China’s New Transit Visa
The 240-hour transit visa is a great option for short stays in China, whether for sightseeing or business. But if you’re planning to stay longer or explore regions outside the permitted areas, you’ll need a standard Chinese visa.
Getting a Standard Chinese Visa
Applying for a Chinese visa directly requires you to visit one of the five Chinese embassies in the United States. This can mean costly and time-consuming travel, especially if you don’t live near one of these locations. The process also involves strict documentation requirements and appointment scheduling, which can add stress to your plans.
How China Visa Department Can Help
At the China Visa Department, we simplify the visa application process. As a registered courier service, we handle everything for you:
- Online Applications: Apply from the comfort of your home with our fully online service.
- In-Person Support: Prefer face-to-face assistance? We accept walk-ins and provide personalized help at our locations.
- Convenience and Savings: Skip the travel to embassies—we’ll handle the submission and processing for you.
Why Choose Us for Your China Visa?
Working with the China Visa Department means less hassle and more convenience. Our team ensures your application is accurate and complete, helping you avoid delays. Whether you’re applying online or in person, we’ll guide you through every step to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Start your Chinese visa application today with the China Visa Department—we make it simple, fast, and convenient.