Visa-free transit policy extended

Effective from 20 August 2026, citizens of Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam can visit China without a visa for up to 240 hours (10 days) under the country’s visa-free transit policy. They can also enter Hainan visa-free for up to 30 days.

China’s transit visa exemption programme was first introduced in 2013, initially allowing eligible travellers from 45 countries to stay for up to 72 hours in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu. It has since been expanded in both duration and geographic coverage, with the current 240-hour policy now covering 57 countries.

Eligible travellers must hold an ordinary passport and confirmed onward tickets to a third country or region. They can enter through 65 designated ports, including Beijing and Shanghai and travel within permitted areas of China for up to 10 days. During their stay, they can undertake short-term activities including tourism, business, visits and family visits.

Citizens of both countries are also now eligible for 30-day visa-free entry to Hainan, where they can enjoy the island’s beaches, tropical landscapes, cultural attractions and resort destinations. This brings the number of nationalities covered by Hainan’s 30-day visa-free policy to 61.

For a full list of eligible countries and more information, visit our China Fast Facts page or contact Asian Trails China.