Planning a layover or stopover in China? If you are traveling through China to a third country or region, you may be eligible to enter China without a visa under the 240-hour visa-free transit policy.

This guide explains who can use China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy, which countries are eligible, what travel documents you need, how the transit rule works, and how you can use a long layover to visit Beijing.

If you are flying through Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), this guide will also help you understand whether you may be able to leave the airport and explore Beijing during your connection.

Important:Immigration policies can change. The information on this page is provided as a general travel guide. Always confirm your eligibility and current requirements with China's National Immigration Administration or the relevant Chinese immigration authorities before traveling.

What Is China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy?

China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows eligible foreign travelers to enter China without obtaining a Chinese visa in advance when they are transiting through China to a third country or region.

Eligible travelers can stay for up to 240 hours, or 10 days, within the areas permitted by the policy.

The current policy applies to citizens of 55 countries and allows eligible travelers to enter through designated ports in 24 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities. As of the latest official update, there are 65 eligible entry ports.

During the visa-free transit period, eligible travelers can generally engage in activities such as:

• Tourism

• Business activities

• Visiting friends or relatives

• Exchange visits

Activities such as employment, study and certain news-reporting activities may require an appropriate visa or prior approval.

Which Countries Are Eligible for China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

As of the latest National Immigration Administration information, citizens of these 55 countries are eligible:

The current list is based on the National Immigration Administration's latest published 240-hour transit requirements. Indonesia was added to the policy in June 2025, bringing the total to 55 countries.

Before traveling to China under the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, prepare:

• Valid passport or qualifying international travel document

• Confirmed onward international ticket

• Proof of your onward itinerary to a third country or region

• Hotel information, if applicable

• Your complete flight itinerary

• Information about your destination after leaving China

You should also be prepared to complete the required arrival procedures and answer immigration officers' questions about your travel plans.

The National Immigration Administration currently provides online arrival-card options for foreign travelers, while travelers who cannot complete the process online can complete the required information at the immigration inspection area.

Generally, the 240-hour transit exemption is handled by Chinese immigration authorities when eligible travelers arrive at an applicable port.

It is not the same as applying for a Chinese visa in advance.

However, being from an eligible country does not automatically guarantee entry. Travelers must meet all applicable requirements, including the required transit itinerary and documentation.

The final decision is made by the Chinese immigration authorities at the port of entry.

1. Your Itinerary Must Meet the Transit Requirement

You are normally required to be traveling from one country or region to China and onward to another country or region.

2. Your Passport Must Be Eligible

Nationality and travel-document requirements apply.

3. You Must Use an Eligible Port

Not every Chinese airport or border crossing necessarily supports the 240-hour policy.

4. Your Stay Is Limited to Permitted Areas

You must follow the permitted-area requirements associated with your entry port.

5. Immigration Makes the Final Decision

Meeting the general conditions does not replace the immigration inspection process.

6. Leave Enough Time for Your Connecting Flight

A visa-free transit entry does not mean you can ignore airport procedures or flight schedules.

If you are using your transit time for a Beijing layover tour, we recommend returning to the airport with a substantial buffer before your next international flight.

Great Wall Layover Tour

One of the best options for travelers with a long PEK layover.

Visit the Mutianyu Great Wall and experience one of China's most famous landmarks before returning to the airport.

Recommended layover: Approximately 8–12+ hours, depending on flight schedules.

Forbidden City & Tiananmen Layover Tour

Explore central Beijing and discover some of the city's most important historical landmarks.

Recommended layover: Approximately 8–10+ hours.

Great Wall + Summer Palace Layover Tour

Combine two famous Beijing attractions during a longer connection.

Recommended layover: Approximately 10–12+ hours.

Customized Beijing Layover Tour

Not sure what you can fit into your layover?

Send us your:

• Arrival airport

• Arrival flight number

• Arrival time

• Departure flight number

• Departure time

• Attractions you want to visit

We can help you create a realistic itinerary based on your available time.