Visa-free transit FAQ
Short answer: 57 countries, 65 ports, 10 days, onward ticket to a third country or region required, no work or study. Verified 29 October 2026.
Hotline detail from the Chinese Embassy in Suriname consular page.
FAQ
What is the difference between 24-hour and 240-hour transit?
The 24-hour rule applies at all open ports to all nationalities, but you must stay inside the port restricted area unless you get a temporary entry permit. The 240-hour rule is for 57 countries, through 65 ports, and lets you stay up to 10 days in the permitted areas.
Does a round trip count?
The NIA requires transit to a third country or region with a confirmed onward ticket. A return to the country you came from is not transit to a third country.
Can I visit more than one province?
Yes. The NIA table says visa-free transit travelers can make cross-province visits within the permitted areas of the 24 provinces for no more than 240 hours.
Which countries were added most recently?
Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam, from 20 August 2026, bringing the total to 57.
Can I do business meetings?
Business activities, visits, tourism and family reunions are allowed. Work, study and news reporting need a visa.
Who do I ask if I am unsure?
The NIA 12367 service hotline, +86-12367, answers in Mandarin, Cantonese, English, Russian, Japanese and Korean (per the Chinese embassy page listed below).
Sources
- National Immigration Administration: Visa-Free Transit Policies (dated 20 Aug 2026)
- english.gov.cn / Xinhua, 20 Aug 2026: Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam added, 57 countries
Last verified against the NIA page: 29 October 2026. This site is not run by the Chinese government. Rules can change at short notice; check the NIA page or call the NIA 12367 service hotline (+86-12367) before you fly.