China’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced on Monday the expansion of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy to three more entry ports, bringing the total number of covered ports to 37.
The new ports include Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Henan Province, Lijiang Sanyi International Airport in Yunnan Province, and the Mohan railway port in Yunnan, according to the administration’s statement.
Starting Monday, eligible foreign nationals can enter China through Zhengzhou aviation port visa-free, but their travel is restricted to within Henan Province.
Additionally, those entering Yunnan visa-free now have permission to stay in more areas of the province. Previously limited to Kunming, they can now visit nine city or prefecture-level areas including Kunming, Lijiang, Dali, and Xishuangbanna.
Currently, foreign nationals from 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, and Britain, are eligible for the 144-hour visa-free policy for short-term activities such as travel and business visits.
The NIA stated that the expanded visa-free policy is expected to offer more options for foreign nationals traveling and doing business in China. The administration emphasized the role of the 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy in supporting the country’s high-level opening-up, facilitating international exchanges, and promoting cooperation. It pledged ongoing improvements and optimizations to the policy, welcoming foreign visitors with a more open approach.