China has added Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam to its 240-hour visa-free transit program, bringing the total number of countries eligible for the policy to 57, immigration authorities announced on Aug 20.

240-hour visa-free transit policy explained

China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows eligible foreign citizens to enter the country and stay up to 10 days without a visa while transiting to a third country or region.

Key points of the policy include:

• The policy applies to citizens of 57 countries.
• Travelers must hold valid international travel documents with at least three months' validity and onward tickets with confirmed seats and departure dates to a third country or region within 240 hours.
• Entry is permitted through 65 designated ports across 24 provincial-level regions.
• During the stay, travelers may move freely within the designated areas for activities such as travel, business, visits, and family reunions.
• Activities such as work, study, or news reporting still require prior approvals and appropriate visas.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, and Shanghai Port (Passenger) are all covered under this policy.

Frequently asked questions

Q1: Who is eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit?

A: Citizens of eligible countries who hold a valid international travel document with at least three months' validity and have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region within 240 hours may apply. There is no age restriction under the policy.

Q2: Can I apply for the 240-hour visa-free transit upon arrival in Shanghai?

A: Yes. Eligible travelers may apply directly upon arrival at Shanghai ports. There is no need to contact an embassy in advance. Final approval is subject to on-site verification by border inspection officers.

Q3: How is the 240-hour stay calculated?

A: The visa-free period starts from 00:00 on the day following arrival. Travelers may stay for up to 240 hours within the permitted areas.

Q4: Where should I complete border inspection procedures in Shanghai?

A: Special channels for the 240-hour visa-free transit are available at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, and Shanghai Port (Passenger). Travelers should follow on-site signage.

Q5: Can I travel outside Shanghai during my stay?

A: Yes. Travelers may move across the designated areas within 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities covered by the policy.

Q6: Can I stay at a hotel in Shanghai under the transit policy?

A: Yes. Border inspection authorities will issue a temporary entry permit sticker in your passport, which can be used for hotel check-in and accommodation registration.

Sources: Xinhua, National Immigration Administration