China’s visa-free transit policy has garnered significant favor among international travelers for both leisure and business purposes.
Currently, citizens from 54 countries worldwide, including prominent nations like the United States, the UK, France, Germany, Spain, and Japan, enjoy exemptions from visa requirements during transit for 72 or 144 hours while en route to a third country, as reported by the National Immigration Administration (NIA).
The 72-hour visa-free transit policy is in effect in cities such as Changsha, Guilin, and Harbin, while travelers can transit in 20 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Tianjin, for up to 144 hours visa-free.
Since its inception in January 2013, more than 500,000 foreigners have availed themselves of China’s visa-free transit policy, according to NIA statistics.
The relaxation of visa regulations has fueled a robust resurgence in the inbound tourism market, facilitating the opening up of the service industry and streamlining foreign visitor access to China.
In the initial two months of 2024, approximately 2.95 million inbound and outbound trips were recorded for foreigners in China, as per NIA data.
Furthermore, the proliferation of mobile payment systems, particularly Alipay and WeChat Pay, has significantly enhanced convenience at various tourism sites, cultural venues, restaurants, and hotels across the country. These platforms now accommodate foreign users who can link international credit cards to their accounts.
Foreign tourists, enamored by China’s modernity, rich cultural heritage, and picturesque landscapes, have been vocal about their positive experiences. Social media platforms, including Douyin (Chinese version of TikTok), have witnessed bloggers, such as the Hutchinson family from the UK, highlighting the ease and efficiency of cashless transactions through WeChat Pay and Alipay during their travels in China.
The Hutchinsons showcased how prevalent mobile payments have become in China, spanning from local fruit stalls to bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops. They emphasized the simplicity of registering for WeChat Pay, even for foreign travelers, and underscored the widespread acceptance of mobile payments throughout China.
In China, cash and credit cards are increasingly unnecessary, with QR code scanning and biometric authentication methods facilitating seamless transactions for a myriad of services, including shopping, dining, ordering takeout, and transportation.
Foreign travelers, like the Hutchinsons, have also commended the safety and tranquility experienced in Chinese cities during their visits, noting the willingness of locals to offer assistance.
Cities like Shanghai have emerged as alluring destinations for inbound tourists, offering a rich tapestry of culinary delights and cultural experiences. Testimonials from travelers, including American YouTubers and foreign bloggers like Harry Jaggard, underscore the allure of China’s profound history, architectural marvels, diverse cuisine, and traditional arts.
Visitors like Jaggard and German YouTuber Ken have expressed their astonishment at China’s modernity, cleanliness, and societal freedoms, challenging preconceived notions and highlighting the country’s appeal as a welcoming and enriching destination for global travelers.