Five Ways to Enter China For Foreigners

  

Source: OT-Team(G),国家移民管理局

  On August 26, China's National Immigration Administration released a video outlining five methods for entering China. 

  The video features a foreign influencer from France who, upon landing at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, was unsure of how to proceed with the entry process. So what are some of the ways he's chosen?

  The video provides details on the following five entry methods:

1. 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit: Travelers holding a connecting ticket to a third country or region and transiting through Shanghai for one day can take advantage of the 24-hour visa-free transit policy, allowing for a brief "one-day tour" in the city.

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit: For those with a longer layover, a temporary entry permit can be obtained with a connecting ticket, allowing for a 144-hour visa-free stay. This option is available in the Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai regions, and applies to citizens of 54 countries.

3. Unilateral Visa Exemption: Starting from December 1, 2023, China has implemented a unilateral visa exemption policy for French passport holders. French citizens traveling to China for business, tourism, family visits, or transit can enter visa-free for up to 15 days.

4. Port Visa: Foreign nationals who need to visit China for business, trade, family visits, or other reasons and are unable to obtain a visa from a Chinese consulate abroad can apply for a port visa upon arrival. This visa allows a stay of up to 30 days.

5. Five-Star Card: This option has no time restrictions, allowing travelers to stay in China for as long as they wish.

  These options provide greater flexibility for foreigners planning to visit China, catering to a range of travel needs and durations.