China’s 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy: Everything You Need to Know for 2025

On December 17, 2024, China’s National Immigration Administration announced significant enhancements to its visa-free transit policy, aiming to boost international tourism and facilitate easier access for foreign travelers.

Key Updates

• Extended Stay Duration: The visa-free 5transit period has been lengthened from the previous 72 or 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days), providing travelers with more time to explore China during their transit. State Council of China
• Expanded Entry Points: An additional 21 ports have been incorporated into the visa-free transit scheme, increasing the total to 60 ports across 24 provinces. This expansion offers greater flexibility in travel planning and access to various regions. China Briefing
• Broadened Eligible Regions: Travelers can now move freely within the designated visa-free transit areas, allowing for cross-regional travel during their 10-day stay.

Eligible Countries

Citizens from 54 countries are eligible for this visa-free transit policy, including:

• Europe (40 countries): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway.
• Americas (6 countries): United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.
• Oceania (2 countries): Australia, New Zealand.
• Asia (6 countries): South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar.

Important Considerations

1. Selection of Entry Port: Eligible travelers must enter China through one of the 60 designated ports.
2. Entry Requirements: Travelers should possess a valid passport with at least three months’ validity and have confirmed onward tickets to a third country or region within the 240-hour timeframe.
3. Permitted Activities: During the 10-day visa-free period, travelers can engage in tourism, business meetings, family visits, and other approved activities within the specified regions.
4. Compliance with Regulations: Visitors must adhere to Chinese laws and regulations during their stay.

Implications for Travelers

This policy enhancement reflects China’s commitment to fostering international tourism and cultural exchange. The extended stay duration and increased number of entry points offer travelers greater flexibility and opportunities to experience China’s diverse attractions.

For the most current information and specific details, travelers are advised to consult official sources or contact Chinese immigration authorities before planning their trip.

List of the 60 Ports Across 24 Provinces for the 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

Here is the detailed list of ports and regions where the 240-hour visa-free transit policy applies. These ports span across China’s 24 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions, offering travelers extensive options for entry and travel.

Learn more about the most common ports of entry and transportation routes to
Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy here.

Key Takeaways

• Diversity of Ports: The policy covers a mix of international airports, cruise terminals, and land ports, allowing for diverse travel options.
• Regional Balance: With ports spanning across northern, southern, eastern, and western China, the policy ensures access to both metropolitan hubs and scenic regions.
• Enhanced Travel Flexibility: This comprehensive network of ports enables travelers to customize their itineraries while enjoying seamless access to multiple provinces.

Travelers are encouraged to confirm their port of entry eligibility and plan their routes accordingly for a smooth visa-free experience.

Visa-Free Kung Fu Training: A 10-Day Itinerary

For students visiting our Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy under the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, the focus should be on maximizing their training experience during their stay. Our comprehensive weekday training schedule ensures that students make the most of their time by fully immersing themselves in the discipline and philosophy of Shaolin kung fu. Weekends offer an opportunity to explore the cultural and scenic highlights of the surrounding areas.

Weekday Training

• Arrival and Orientation (Day 1, Arrival Day):
  • Students typically arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and make their way to the academy.
  • After settling in, students can rest and review the welcome letter and student manual to familiarize themselves with the school, rules, and classes.
• Daily Training Routine (Days 2-6, Weekdays):
  • Each weekday will be dedicated to kung fu training, following the academy’s structured schedule. Training includes:
    • Morning Sessions: Qigong/TaiChi, and basic Shaolin and acrobatic techniques, weapons training, and individual corrections.
    • Afternoon Sessions: Focused practice applications, take-downs, Sanda, and power training.
    • Evening Sessions: Optional culture classes and alone time to wind down the day.
  • This rigorous schedule is designed to provide an authentic and immersive experience, ensuring students progress in both skill and discipline.

Weekend Exploration

The weekends offer a chance to unwind and explore the rich culture and natural beauty of the surrounding areas, enhancing the overall experience of visiting Jiangsu Province.

• Maling Forest Scenic Park: Located near the academy, this park is renowned for its tranquil forests, waterfalls, and Daoist traditions. Visitors can hike scenic trails and enjoy panoramic views of the landscape.
• Yaowan Ancient Village: A historic water town known for its Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and ancient canals. The village is perfect for leisurely exploration and offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.
• Xinyi City: Known for its blend of ancient history and modern development, Xinyi offers cultural sites, bustling markets, and opportunities to experience local Jiangsu cuisine.
• Xuzhou: For those interested in history, a visit to Xuzhou provides a chance to explore Han Dynasty relics, including the terracotta warriors and ancient tombs.

Departure

• Students conclude their stay with a performance demonstration, showcasing the skills they have acquired during their training.
• Departures are coordinated to ensure a smooth return journey to their home countries or onward destinations.

Why This Approach Works

This structure ensures that students gain the most from their kung fu training during the weekdays while also allowing time to appreciate the local culture and natural beauty of Jiangsu Province on the weekends. The combination of focused training and enriching excursions creates a well-rounded and fulfilling experience under the 240-hour visa-free transit policy. The full week will allow you to get a taste of all the classes the academy offers–and get a intensive week-long workout!