China’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced the expansion of its 144-hour visa-free transit policy to three additional entry points, bringing the total number of covered ports to 37.
The newly added ports are Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Henan Province, Lijiang Sanyi International Airport in Yunnan Province, and the Mohan railway port in Yunnan, according to the NIA’s statement.
Starting from Monday, eligible foreign travelers can enter China through the Zhengzhou airport without a visa, with their stay limited to Henan Province. Similarly, those entering via the new Yunnan ports can now explore more areas within the province. Previously restricted to Kunming, visitors can now travel to nine city or prefecture-level areas, including Kunming, Lijiang, Dali, and Xishuangbanna.
Currently, citizens from 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, qualify for the 144-hour visa-free policy, which is intended for short-term travel and business visits.
The NIA highlighted that the extension of the visa-free policy aims to offer more options for foreign nationals visiting China for tourism or business. The agency noted the significant role of the 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy in advancing China’s high-level opening-up, facilitating international exchanges, and promoting cooperation. The NIA committed to further refining and optimizing the policy to welcome foreign visitors with greater openness.
