Inside China’s Expanded Transit Policies and Digital Entry
China is expanding its 30-day visa-waiver and 240-hour transit-free programs to more nationalities and ports of entry. Additionally, a new nationwide e-arrival-card system will be implemented by the end of Q2 to streamline the entry process for international travelers.
Inside China’s Expanded Transit Policies and Digital Entry
China has significantly overhauled its border entry systems to attract more international visitors. The headline feature is the 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy, which now covers 55 nationalities across 65 ports in 24 provinces. This allows travelers from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and much of Europe to explore specific regions for up to ten days without a formal visa, provided they have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country.
While the transit policy is perfect for a quick stopover, many nomads are also utilizing the unilateral 30-day visa-free entry. This program was recently expanded to include citizens of the UK and Canada through the end of 2026. These combined efforts make China more accessible than it has been in decades, though it is important to remember that these entries are for tourism and business visits; remote work remains a legal gray area under these specific categories.
Who is affected
This streamlined system primarily benefits short-term travelers and digital nomads looking to scout locations like Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Guangzhou.
- Transit Travelers: Citizens from the 55 eligible countries can stay for 10 days in designated zones.
- Visa-Free Tourists: Citizens from over 40 countries, including France, Germany, and now the UK, can stay for up to 30 days.
- All Inbound Arrivals: Every foreign traveler must now use the nationwide e-arrival card system.
What you need to do
The days of filling out paper landing cards on the plane are largely over. You should submit your details via the National Immigration Administration website or through WeChat and Alipay mini-programs before you land. Once submitted, you will receive a QR code to scan at the border, which has reportedly cut immigration wait times in half.
If you are using the 240-hour transit option, you must present a passport with at least three months of validity and your confirmed ticket to a third destination. Once you arrive, remember that hotels will register you with the authorities automatically, but if you are staying in a private rental, you must register at a local police station within 24 hours.
Stay informed on the latest nomad news to see if your home country is added to the list. Read our full China guide for the complete picture.