240-hour visa-free transit boosts inbound travel

Since China implemented the 240-hour visa-free transit policy on Dec 17, 2024, Shanghai has welcomed a growing number of foreign travelers.

According to the Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection, a total of 72,000 visits have been made by international passengers over the past year under the 240-hour visa-free transit policy. Among these visits, Russia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Indonesia were the top five sources.

Beyond the transit policy, China has continued to expand unilateral visa-free access and mutual visa exemption arrangements, further boosting inbound travel. Since the beginning of this year, a total of nearly 5.35 million arrivals of international visitors have been recorded at Shanghai ports, representing a year-on-year increase of 40.6 percent.

Part 1. 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 55 countries.

·Travelers must hold valid international travel documents with more than three months' validity and onward tickets with confirmed seats and departure dates to a third country or region.

·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.

Part 2. Frequently asked questions
01 Who is eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit?

Citizens of eligible countries who hold a valid international travel document with more than 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.

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

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.

03 How is the 240-hour stay calculated?

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

04 Where should I complete border inspection procedures in Shanghai?

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.

05 Can I travel outside Shanghai during my stay?

Yes. Travelers may move across the designated areas within 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities covered by the policy. Leaving the permitted areas or staying beyond 240 hours requires applying for a stay permit from the local public security authorities.

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

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.

Source: National Immigration Administration