China Visa-Free Transit Adds Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam

China visa-free transit now includes two more nationalities, expanding the scheme to 57 countries and the separate Hainan entry program to 61. The changes give eligible travelers additional short-term entry options, but each facility has different geographic limits and document rules.

What changed

From August 20, 2026, ordinary passport holders from Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam are eligible for China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy and Hainan’s 30-day visa-free entry policy. Until that date, the previous eligibility rules apply. According to China’s National Immigration Administration, the transit program rises from 55 to 57 eligible countries, while Hainan’s program rises from 59 to 61.

The transit facility allows stays of up to 240 hours, or 10 days, in designated areas after entry through any of 65 eligible ports across 24 provincial-level regions. The Hainan facility allows stays of up to 30 days within Hainan Province after entry through one of the province’s open international ports. Both facilities cover short-term tourism, business, visits and family visits.

Who is affected

Kyrgyzstani passport holders and Vietnamese passport holders qualify only when traveling on ordinary passports. The policies do not permit work, study, news reporting or other activities requiring prior approval. Travelers planning those activities must obtain the appropriate visa before travel.

Why China made the change

China’s National Immigration Administration described the expansion as supporting high-standard opening-up, stronger mutual trust and cooperation with neighboring countries, and easier tourism, trade, visits and investment.

What travelers should do

For 240-hour transit, travelers should carry a valid ordinary passport and a confirmed onward ticket with a fixed date and itinerary to a third country or region. They should also confirm that their entry port and intended travel area are covered before presenting documents at border inspection. For Hainan, travelers must enter through an open Hainan port and remain in Hainan Province unless they obtain an appropriate visa. No prior online application or fee was announced for either facility.

Sources

• Announcement Adding Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam – China National Immigration Administration
• Visa-Free Transit Policy – China National Immigration Administration
• Explore Hainan: 30-Day Visa-Free Entry – Hainan Provincial Government
• Visa-Free Entry to Hainan: What You Need to Know – Hainan Provincial Government
• China Expands Visa-Free Facilities – Newland Chase