1. Travel Documents:

   • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six more months.

2. Money:

   • Carry local currency (RMB) for immediate expenses.
   • Use a travel-friendly credit card.
   • Download and register for WeChat and Alipay.

3. Technology and Connectivity:

   • Bring an unlocked phone and purchase a local SIM card.
   • Use travel apps like Gaode Maps and language translation apps (Google services are not accessible in China).

By preparing these essentials, you'll ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to China.

China offers a visa-free transit policy for travelers from certain countries, allowing them to visit specific regions without a visa for a short period. This policy is especially beneficial for those on a layover or planning a brief visit.

Who Qualifies?

Travelers from eligible countries can take advantage of the visa-free transit policy if they meet the following conditions:

• Nationality: Hold a valid passport from one of the eligible countries.
• Onward Travel: Have a confirmed onward flight to a third country (not the country of origin) within the visa-free period.
• Port of Entry and Exit: Enter and exit through designated ports of entry within the specified cities.

Eligible Countries

A wide range of countries are included in this policy. It’s important to check the most current list of eligible countries before planning your trip.

Visa-Free Transit Durations and Eligible Cities

1. 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit:

• Eligible Cities: Guilin, Harbin, Changsha, and others.
• Requirements: Travelers must have an onward ticket to a third country and stay within the city limits.

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit:

• Eligible Cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou, and several others.
• Requirements: Travelers must have an onward ticket to a third country and can travel within designated areas (e.g., Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang region).

Important Notes

• Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including a valid passport, onward flight tickets, and visas for the next destination if required.
• Airline Notification: Inform the airline of your intention to use the visa-free transit policy when checking in.
• Hotel Registration: Register with local authorities if staying in a hotel, as the hotel typically handles this process.

Steps to Use the Visa-Free Transit Policy

1. Check Eligibility: Verify that your nationality and travel itinerary qualify for the visa-free transit.
2. Book Flights: Ensure your flights include a confirmed onward ticket to a third country within the allowed period.
3. Prepare Documentation: Have your passport, onward ticket, and any necessary visas ready.
4. Inform Airline: Let the airline know you plan to use the visa-free transit policy when boarding.
5. Customs Declaration: Upon arrival in China, declare your intention to use the visa-free transit policy at immigration.
6. Hotel Registration: Register with local authorities upon check-in at your accommodation.

For more information and questions, please contact us.

As of March 15, 2023, the Chinese government has lifted its earlier suspension of 10-year visas for entry. Here's how to get a China tourist visa:

1. Gather Required Documents:

   • Valid passport with at least six months' validity and blank visa pages.
   • Completed visa application form (available on the Chinese embassy/consulate website).
   • Recent passport-sized photo.

2. Additional Documents:

   • Proof of round-trip flights and accommodation bookings.
   • Travel itinerary.
   • Invitation letter (if applicable).

3. Submit Application:

   • Visit the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate, or use an authorized visa service center.
   • Submit your application form and required documents.
   • Pay the visa application fee (check the specific fee for your country).

4. Wait for Processing:

   • Visa processing usually takes 4-5 business days. Expedited services may be available for an additional fee.

5. Collect Your Visa:

   • Pick up your passport with the visa from the embassy, consulate, or visa service center.