China Expands Visa-Free Transit Program – Gateway to Global Tourism

In a bid to enhance international travel opportunities, the Chinese government has announced an extension of its visa-free transit program, allowing citizens from 54 countries to stay in the country for up to 10 days without a visa when en route to a third destination. The State Immigration Administration confirmed that the allowable transit time has been increased from 144 hours to 240 hours and has expanded the number of eligible border crossing points by 22, bringing the total to 60.

Countries included in the program range from Russia and the United States to the United Kingdom, Canada, and Brazil. This initiative comes at a time when tourism in China is seeing a significant recovery. From January to November, foreign visitor numbers surged by 86.2% compared to the previous year, totaling 29.2 million. Of these visitors, 17.4% utilized the visa-free transit option.

The extension is a strategic move to rejuvenate tourism and international connectivity, particularly after the disruptions caused by the global pandemic. By simplifying transit options, China aims to attract a wider range of international travelers, including tourists, business professionals, and investors. Additionally, the expanded policy positions China as a critical transportation hub, facilitating smoother transit through key cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

The initiative not only underscores China’s commitment to boosting its tourism sector but also signals a shift in its immigration policies toward greater openness and globalization. As part of its post-pandemic recovery, China seeks to create an environment that fosters international exchange and strengthens its role in the global travel ecosystem.

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