Chongqing 240-Hour Transit Visa Exemption Policy

Chongqing Public Security Bureau Exit-Entry Administration Addresses FAQs on 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

To help the public better understand the latest visa-free transit policy measures, the Exit-Entry Administration Bureau of Chongqing Municipal Public Security Bureau has compiled answers to frequently asked questions regarding the newly expanded 240-hour visa-free transit policy.

According to an announcement by the National Immigration Administration (NIA) on December 17, China has fully relaxed and optimized its visa-free transit policy. The permitted stay duration for visa-free transit foreigners has been extended from the previous 72 or 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days). Additionally, 21 new ports have been added as entry-exit points for visa-free transit travelers, and the permitted activity zones have been significantly expanded.

Eligible nationals from 54 countries transiting through China to a third country (region) may now enter China visa-free through any of the 60 open ports across 24 provinces (autonomous regions, municipalities) and stay within designated areas for up to 240 hours. The most notable feature of this policy adjustment, compared to the previous 72/144-hour visa-free transit rules, is the removal of regional restrictions, allowing visa-free transit travelers to move freely across provinces within the permitted activity zones.

This comprehensive relaxation and optimization of the visa-free transit policy mark a significant step in China’s international exchange and cooperation efforts. It will further promote deeper interaction and integration between China and the rest of the world, building broader bridges for global trade, cultural exchanges, and tourism.

FAQs:

Q1: How to apply for the 240-hour visa-free transit entry at Chongqing Port?
A: Travelers meeting the following three conditions may complete visa-free entry procedures at Terminal 3 of Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport:

1. Hold citizenship from one of the 54 eligible countries;
2. Possess a valid international travel document with at least 3 months of validity and meet entry requirements for the third country (region);
3. Hold confirmed onward tickets (with fixed dates and seats) to the third country (region) within 240 hours, complete the Temporary Entry Card for Foreigners, and undergo inspection and questioning by immigration authorities.

Q2: How is the 240-hour stay period calculated?
A: The 240-hour stay period begins at 00:00 on the day after entry. For example, if a traveler enters China on December 19, 2024, their stay period starts at 00:00 on December 20, 2024, and they must depart before 24:00 on December 29, 2024.

Q3: Which areas are permitted for activities under the 240-hour visa-free transit policy?
A: The key feature of the new policy is cross-regional travel. For example, under the previous 144-hour policy, travelers entering via Chongqing were restricted to Chongqing municipality. The new 240-hour policy allows travelers to enter or exit through any of 60 open ports nationwide and travel across 24 provinces (autonomous regions, municipalities) within permitted zones.

Q4: What if a visa-free transit traveler needs to stay beyond 240 hours or exceed permitted zones due to special circumstances?
A: In cases of sudden illness, humanitarian reasons, or other justified needs, travelers may apply for a stay permit at local immigration offices with supporting documents.

Q5: How does the 240-hour visa-free transit differ from mutual/single-sided visa exemptions?
A: Among the 54 eligible countries, some (e.g., France, Australia, South Korea, UAE) already benefit from mutual visa exemption or unilateral visa exemption agreements with China, allowing stays of up to 30 days. Travelers may choose the applicable policy based on their needs.

Reminders from Chongqing Exit-Entry Administration Bureau:

1. Visa-free travelers may engage in tourism, business, visits, or family visits. Work, study, or journalism require prior approval and proper visas.
2. Visa-free travelers must register temporary accommodation with local police and plan their itineraries within permitted zones.
3. Foreigners ineligible for visa-free entry but requiring urgent entry to Chongqing may apply for a port visa via the Chongqing Exit-Entry Administration Bureau (Tel: 023-63961955; Email: kaqzchu@126.com).

The Chongqing Exit-Entry Administration Bureau will fully implement immigration facilitation policies to promote international exchanges. Foreign friends are warmly welcomed to experience Chongqing’s openness, inclusiveness, and unique “8D magic”!

Additional Info: List of 54 Eligible Countries
Europe (40): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Croatia, Norway, Russia, UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Monaco, Belarus.
Americas (6): USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.
Oceania (2): Australia, New Zealand.
Asia (6): South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, UAE, Qatar.