China expands visa-free transit to Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam

China has expanded its visa-free travel policies to include citizens of Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam, effective August 20, 2026.

Under the updated 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit program, travelers from these two nations holding ordinary passports can enter China through 65 designated ports—including Beijing and Shanghai—provided they have confirmed onward tickets to a third country or region. This expansion brings the total number of countries eligible for the 240-hour transit scheme to 57.

Additionally, citizens of Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam are now eligible for a 30-day visa-free entry policy specifically for Hainan Province. This allows visitors to enter through Hainan’s open ports and stay within the province for up to 30 days without an onward journey requirement. This addition increases the number of countries covered by the Hainan waiver to 61.

The permitted activities under these policies include tourism, business, trade, and family visits. However, the waivers do not apply to those intending to work, study, or engage in journalistic activities, all of which still require formal visa applications.