China, aiming to revitalize its economy after three years of pandemic-induced isolation, has expanded its visa-free transit policy, allowing eligible foreign travelers to stay for up to 10 days.
Announced on Tuesday, the new measure applies to passport holders from 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, and several European and Asian nations.
Previously, visa-free stays were limited to 72 to 144 hours, depending on the location. The updated policy, effective immediately, enables transit travelers with confirmed onward tickets to enter 60 cities across 24 provinces, including major hubs like Beijing and Shanghai. Visitors can now travel across multiple regions during their stay, although some restrictions apply.
In addition to the extended transit period, China has waived visa requirements altogether for citizens of 38 countries, such as France, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Switzerland, allowing them to stay for up to 30 days. Notably, the United States is not included in this list of exemptions.
China’s recent efforts to streamline visa processes are part of a broader strategy to attract more international visitors, stimulate tourism, and foster economic and cultural exchanges. The government has also focused on improving travel infrastructure and addressing issues raised by international travelers to make the experience smoother.
The United States has taken note of improving conditions, recently lowering its travel advisory for China from Level 3 to Level 2, putting it on par with countries like France and Germany. This decision follows the release of three Americans - Kai Li, Mark Swidan, and David Lin - who had been detained in China for years.
While the advisory still warns of "arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans," it marks a shift from previous concerns about "wrongful detentions." However, the selective nature of China’s visa exemptions highlights its cautious approach, as longer stays remain unavailable to U.S. citizens.