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China’s 240-Hour Transit Visa-Free Program: What Changed for 2026 Travelers

Coverage expanded to more countries and ports. Here’s who qualifies, how long you can stay, and the transit-ticket rule that still trips people up.

Key takeaway

  • 240-hour transit visa-free now covers dozens of countries with multi-port entry options—confirm your passport nationality before booking.
  • You still need an onward ticket to a third country/region; round-trips that bounce back to the origin often fail the transit test.
  • Eligible stays are timed from entry; plan city hops within the permitted window and keep hotel registration ready.

What travelers should do next

Check the latest eligible country list and entry ports on official immigration pages close to travel.

Build a 5–8 day multi-city Plan only after confirming your passport qualifies and your onward ticket is third-country.

FAQ

Is 240-hour the same as 30-day unilateral visa-free?

No. Unilateral visa-free is for eligible nationalities entering as visitors; 240-hour is a transit program with onward-ticket rules.

Where should I double-check before booking?

Official immigration/attraction/operator pages for your travel dates, plus ChinaPie Plan for itinerary fit.

Does this apply to every nationality?

No—visa-free, transit, and payment limits vary by passport. Always check your nationality.

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