In a significant move that signals a further opening of China’s borders, the country’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced on 3 November 2025 a suite of ten new immigration and exit-entry measures designed to simplify travel, enable digital entry formalities and expand visa-free transit options for foreign visitors. Beijing.gov.cn+2Fragomen+2
As immigration advisors at World Visa, we view this as a strategic enhancement of China’s global connectivity —one that professionals, corporate travellers, families, and students need to understand carefully.
What Are the Key Changes ?
1. Expanded 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit
From 5 November 2025, the 24-hour visa-free direct transit policy (without immigration inspection if staying inside the airport) has been extended to ten additional international airports, including Tianjin Binhai, Dalian Zhoushuizi, Nanjing Lukou, Fuzhou Changle, Qingdao Jiaodong, Wuhan Tianhe, Nanning Wuxu, Haikou Meilan, Chongqing Jiangbei, and Kunming Changshui. Beijing.gov.cn+1
That means that travellers arriving on an interline ticket and departing within 24 hours for a third country may bypass full immigration inspection — provided they stay within the transit zone.
2. Expanded 240-Hour (10-Day) Visa-Free Transit
Also effective 5 November 2025, China added five new entry ports in Guangdong Province — Guangzhou Pazhou Ferry Terminal, Hengqin Port, Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge Port, Zhongshan Port, and West Kowloon Station (Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link) — increasing the eligible 240-hour visa-free transit ports from 60 to 65 across 24 provinces.






