China Expands 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy to Include Henan and Yunnan Provinces

Effective July 15, the National Immigration Administration has announced the expansion of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy to cover all of Henan province and 9 cities in Yunnan province. This policy allows citizens from 54 countries, including Austria, Belgium, and the Czech Republic, to transit through designated ports without needing a visa and stay for up to 144 hours.

The eligible ports now include Xinzheng International Airport in Zhengzhou, Henan; Sanyi International Airport in Lijiang; and Mohan Railway Port in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan. Travelers with valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets within 144 hours can transit through these ports en route to a third country or region.

In Henan, visitors can transit via Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport. In Yunnan, the policy applies to Kunming Changshui International Airport, Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, and Mohan Railway Port, allowing stays within the administrative regions of Kunming, Lijiang, Yuxi, Pu’er, Chuxiong Yi autonomous prefecture, Dali Bai autonomous prefecture, Xishuangbanna Dai autonomous prefecture, Honghe Hani and Yi autonomous prefecture, and Wenshan Zhuang and Miao autonomous prefecture.

Since the implementation of the 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy in January 2013, it has significantly contributed to China’s high-level opening-up, facilitating international exchanges, and promoting foreign cooperation. The recent expansion brings the total number of ports offering this policy to 37, including major ports in Beijing and Tianjin.

An official from the National Immigration Administration emphasized the policy’s role in enhancing tourism and business opportunities. They also mentioned plans to further improve and optimize the visa-free transit policy, welcoming foreign nationals to China with a more open attitude.