China Visas extended : New Travel Policy Boosts Tourism
Yes — China Visas extended ! The 144-hour (6 day) visa-free transit scheme has now been expanded to include the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, offering international travellers an even easier way to explore some of China’s most iconic destinations. This move is expected to further stimulate tourism and facilitate business exchanges, aligning with China’s efforts to welcome more short-term international visitors.
Foreign citizens from 53 countries (including Australia) arriving by air, rail or cruise can now spend up to 144 hours in parts of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei without a visa — provided they hold a valid onward ticket and meet the transit requirements. This expansion opens the door to quick, convenient travel in Northern China.
Overview
The 144-hour visa-free transit policy allows foreign travellers to enjoy up to six days in designated regions of China without a visa. Previously available only in certain coastal cities, the program has now expanded to the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, creating a powerful northern hub for international transit and short visits.
Under this policy, visitors can use China as a convenient stopover for connecting flights or rail journeys, while still having time to explore key attractions such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and Tianjin’s European-style waterfront. The initiative reflects China’s broader goal to make its travel experience smoother and more accessible for global tourists and business visitors alike.
Who is eligible
The 144-hour visa-free policy applies to citizens of 53 countries, spanning most of Europe, North America, Oceania, and parts of Asia and South America. This includes Australian, U.S., U.K., Canadian, New Zealand, and most European Union passport holders. Travellers from these countries are permitted to enter China for up to six days without applying for a visa, provided they are transiting to a third destination.
Before planning your trip, always confirm the current list of eligible countries at Visa for China, as the list can occasionally be updated or revised by Chinese authorities.
Where you can obtain the 144-hour transit
Travellers can now enjoy the convenience of obtaining the 144-hour transit visa upon arrival at six major entry points in the newly extended region. These include:
- Beijing Capital International Airport
- Beijing West Railway Station (Railway West Station)
- Tianjin Binhai International Airport
- Tianjin International Cruise Homeport
- Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (Hebei Province)
- Qinhuangdao Harbour (Hebei Province)
These access points make it possible for visitors to connect smoothly between flights, cruises, and rail journeys. Each location has dedicated immigration counters for visa-free processing, where travellers can submit their onward ticket and itinerary for approval.
Requirements & documentation – China Visas extended
To qualify for the 144-hour visa-free stay, visitors must provide the following documentation upon arrival:
- Valid passport: Must have at least six months’ validity remaining.
- Confirmed onward ticket: You need proof of a confirmed onward journey to a third country or region within 144 hours of arrival.
- Transit route compliance: You must arrive and depart from approved ports within the same region (for example, entering through Beijing Capital Airport and departing from Tianjin is acceptable).
- Accommodation details: A printed address or booking for where you’ll stay during your visit is recommended.
It’s essential to carry all documents in printed form, as some immigration points may require paper verification. Failing to present the necessary evidence may lead to denial of entry under the visa-free scheme.
How the process works – China Visas extended
Applying for the 144-hour visa-free transit is simple and typically processed on arrival:
- Upon arrival, proceed to the designated 144-hour visa-free transit counter at the airport, train station, or port.
- Present your passport, confirmed onward ticket, and accommodation details to the immigration officer.
- If approved, a visa-free entry stamp will be placed in your passport, marking the start of your 144-hour period.
China Visas extended – The 144-hour window begins from the moment of entry (not from midnight). Travellers must depart the region before the time limit expires. Overstaying this period can result in fines, deportation, or future entry bans, so plan carefully.
Background: Shanghai & neighbouring provinces
Shanghai, Zhejiang, and Jiangsu were the first provinces to introduce the 144-hour visa-free transit program back in January 2016. This region’s success in attracting international travellers and boosting tourism revenue inspired similar programs in other major cities. The addition of Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei now unites northern and eastern China under a more cohesive visa-free network, offering greater flexibility for multi-city itineraries.
China Visas extended – Travellers can now design itineraries that combine Shanghai’s modern energy with Beijing’s imperial history, all within a seamless short-stay experience — perfect for those connecting through China en route to other destinations in Asia or Europe.
Need a business visa?
While the 144-hour transit option is ideal for short visits or tourism stopovers, it may not suit every traveller. Those planning meetings, extended stays, or multiple entries into China should apply for a business visa (M or F type). A proper business visa ensures full compliance with Chinese immigration law and allows greater flexibility for travel dates and project timelines.
For expert assistance with visa paperwork, documentation, and invitation letters, contact our office for guidance. Our travel specialists can manage the application process from start to finish to ensure smooth approval.
Frequently Asked Questions – China Visas extended
1. Who can use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy in China?
Citizens of 53 countries — including Australia, the U.S., Canada, the U.K., New Zealand, and most EU nations — can use this policy. Travellers must be transiting to a third country or region and hold a confirmed onward ticket.
2. Which cities and regions are included in the visa-free extension?
The extended policy covers the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, allowing entry and exit through six major points such as Beijing Capital International Airport, Tianjin Binhai Airport, and Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport.
3. How long can I stay in China under the visa-free scheme?
You can stay in the designated region for up to 144 hours (six days). The countdown begins from the exact time you enter China, not from midnight.
4. What documents are required for the 144-hour visa-free transit?
You must present a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a confirmed onward ticket to a third destination, and proof of accommodation during your stay.
5. Can I travel outside the approved region during my visa-free stay?
No. Travellers must remain within the approved Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region. Leaving the designated area without a visa is not permitted and may result in fines or penalties.
Your Six-Day Gateway to China: Travel Smarter, Transit Easier
The extension of the 144-hour visa-free transit to Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei is a game changer for international visitors. Whether you’re an adventurer chasing history, a business traveller on a short stopover, or a frequent flyer looking for a seamless connection, this policy lets you experience China’s highlights without bureaucratic hassle.
Plan ahead, have your itinerary ready, and embrace the convenience of a six-day exploration that bridges ancient heritage and modern innovation. For longer stays or business needs, reach out to our office for professional visa services tailored to your travel goals.
