Q: What is China's policy regarding the 24-hour visa-free transit for international travelers?

A: According to Chinese laws and regulations, foreign nationals holding valid international travel documents and connecting tickets with confirmed seats, who intend to transit via China by international flights, ships or trains to a third country or region can stay in China for up to 24 hours without the need for a visa, provided they do not leave the port of entry. However, if they need to leave the port of entry during this time, they must apply for temporary entry permits from the entry and exit border control authorities.

Q: What are the requirements for foreigners applying for temporary entry permits?

A: Foreigners applying for temporary entry permits must submit valid passports or other international travel documents, interline tickets, and other necessary materials. They are also required to fill in a temporary entry card for foreigners and comply with inquiries from the entry-exit border control authorities.

Q: Under what circumstances would entry-exit border control authorities not issue temporary entry permits to foreigners?

A: Entry-exit border control authorities will not issue temporary entry permits to foreigners to whom any of the following circumstances apply:

1. Those not permitted to enter the country as per laws and regulations.

2. Individuals with passports or international travel documents valid for less than 3 months or stamped with visa refusal.

3. Persons with a history of illegal entry/exit, residence, or employment within the past 5 years.

4. Individuals who have violated accommodation registration regulations within the past 2 years, with serious consequences.

Q: What should a foreigner do if they need to extend their stay beyond the temporary entry permit period due to unforeseen circumstances?

A: If a foreigner needs to stay beyond the temporary entry permit period due to sudden illness, force majeure, or other valid reasons, they must apply to the Exit-Entry Administration Department of the public security organ for a corresponding stay document as per regulations. Failure to do so may result in penalties imposed by the entry-exit border control authorities or local public security authorities in accordance with the law.

Source: nia.gov.cn