Chongqing—On December 17, Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport received its first travelers under China's newly extended 240-hour visa-free transit policy, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to boost tourism and international exchanges.
Overseas travelers landed excitedly (Photo/Deng Yan)
The updated policy, which came into effect the same day, allows eligible foreign travelers to stay in China for up to 10 days without a visa, an increase from the previous limits of 72 or 144 hours. Additionally, the number of ports eligible for visa-free transit has expanded to 60 across 24 provincial-level regions, offering more flexibility for international visitors.
Marco and Vanessa arrived in Chongqing (Photo/Deng Yan)
Among the first to benefit from the new policy was Anton, a visitor from Austria, who described his delight upon arriving in Chongqing: "I will definitely tell my family and friends about this new policy! Many are excited to visit China." Meanwhile, Marco and Vanessa, a couple planning to travel across China, appreciated the convenience of the extended stay. "It saves time. We don't have to go to the embassy to apply for a new visa. It makes our travel in China easy and convenient!" they said.
The 240-hour visa-free transit policy is open to citizens of 54 countries, including Austria, the United States, Australia, and Japan. Applicants must hold valid international travel documents and interline passenger tickets with confirmed onward destinations and meet the entry requirements for their third destination. The policy is designed to simplify entry procedures for transit travelers and offer a seamless experience for those with itineraries that include stopovers in China.
The Austrian visitor Anton is excited to see Chongqing (Photo/Deng Yan)
The policy also reflects a strategic effort to boost tourism in less-explored areas. In addition to popular cities like Beijing and Shanghai, newly included destinations such as Guizhou, Hainan, and Jiangxi provide opportunities for visitors to explore China's rich landscapes and cultural heritage. The flexibility to travel across 24 provincial-level regions encourages multi-city tours and deeper cultural immersion.
The Chongqing Immigration Inspection Station has implemented streamlined border-check measures to accommodate the expected rise in foreign visitors. These enhancements include optimized entry processes, dynamic adjustment of inspection lanes, and multilingual guidance for travelers, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience.
According to official statistics, over 10.7 million foreign travelers entered China visa-free in 2024, accounting for more than half of all foreign arrivals. The 240-hour policy is expected to further bolster these numbers, bringing more global visitors to experience the country's diverse attractions and dynamic development.