In a significant move to boost tourism, China has announced an expansion of its visa-free transit policy, allowing eligible foreign travelers to stay in the country for up to 240 hours, or 10 days, an increase from the previous range of 72 to 144 hours. The policy change, effective immediately, was revealed by the National Immigration Administration (NIA) via its official WeChat account.
Under this new policy, citizens from 54 countries—including Russia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada—can now enter China without the need for a visa when transiting to a third country. This is permissible through any of the 60 open ports across 24 provinces, provided travelers stay within designated areas. The move is part of China’s ongoing effort to revive its tourism sector following the country’s reopening in 2023, after three years of strict COVID-19 restrictions.
The visa-free policy, which has already been extended to 38 countries as of November 2024, is seen as a key strategy in attracting international visitors. Recent data shows a notable recovery in inbound tourism, with 8.2 million foreign trips recorded in the third quarter of 2024, marking a 48.8% year-on-year increase. The NIA reported that over half of these visits were facilitated by the visa-free policy, which saw a remarkable 78.6% rise in its uptake compared to the previous year.
Shenzhen-Hong Kong Visa Policy Update
In a related development, starting December 1, 2024, residents of Shenzhen can now apply for multiple-entry visas to Hong Kong, a major change from the previous restriction of one trip per week. This policy adjustment aims to stimulate tourism and restore the system that was in place until 2015. The announcement, made by state broadcaster China Central Television, follows growing calls from the Hong Kong government to relax visa restrictions as a means of revitalizing the territory’s struggling tourism industry.
The new policy reverts to a 2009 arrangement that permitted unlimited visits for mainland residents. The restrictions, which were introduced in response to concerns about parallel trading and the influx of mainland shoppers, were a source of tension and protests in Hong Kong. The return to multiple-entry visas is seen as a positive step for tourism, though its impact may be tempered by ongoing economic challenges in mainland China and a decline in Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a destination for domestic travelers.
These changes are part of China’s broader strategy to bolster tourism and economic activity, following the pandemic and the subsequent reopening of its borders. While the future impact remains uncertain, the measures underscore China’s commitment to attracting international tourists and fostering stronger cross-border ties in the region.
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