China has introduced round-the-clock visa-free transit for all travelers starting May 2025.

From May 13, 2025, China has officially allowed round-the-clock visa-free transit for all foreign nationals, this is a significant step towards the development of international travel and tourism. This innovative update allows tourists and business travelers to freely cross the territory of China without the need for a transit visa, if their route includes a third country or region.

Main provisions of the new policy.

Visa-free stay up to 24 hours — citizens of any country can stay in China without a visa for no more than one day during transit through any entry-exit port

Extension to all international ports — transit is available for air, sea, and rail routes, significantly expanding travel options.

If you plan to leave the airport or port to explore attractions or stay in a hotel, you can obtain a temporary entry permit at the entry-exit immigration control counter. It is important to consider that not all cities allow free departure from the airport — this depends on the decisions of local immigration services and the capabilities of the specific port.

Mandatory conditions:

• Having a valid passport with a minimum validity of not less than six months.
• Confirmed ticket for the next flight or trip to a third country or region, which must be carried out within 24 hours.
• If required, a valid visa for your next destination.

For travelers: when registering for a flight or boarding, it is necessary to notify the airline staff in advance about the intention to use visa-free transit — they will pass the relevant information to the immigration service of China.

Features for tourists and business people:

• The ability to easily plan long stops or multi-stage routes.
• Simplification of paperwork and reduction of time for obtaining visas.
• The opportunity to visit famous attractions and spend time in the country without the need to apply for a visa during short stays.

This policy makes China a more attractive intermediate point for international travel, opening new opportunities for tourism, business, and cultural exchange. Now travelers will be able to reach their final destinations faster and more conveniently, minimizing bureaucratic barriers and making their routes more flexible and comfortable.

Stay tuned on the website Buch-dein-Visum.de, to be up-to-date with all changes in visa policy and receive current travel planning tips.