Zhujianger - Blog , VisasZhujianger - Blog , Visashttps://www.zhujianger.com/blogs/visasWed, 07 Oct 2026 07:16:48 +1100http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit: The Complete Guide for Guangzhou (2026)]]>https://www.zhujianger.com/blogs/post/240-hour-visa-free-transit-chinaEverything buyers and sourcing professionals need to know about entering China visa-free through Guangzhou, eligible countries, how immigration works, Canton Fair timing, and practical tips for your 10-day window.]]>
China 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit
Policy Update: Active from Dec 2024

China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit:
The Buyer's Guide to Guangzhou

Ten days in China. No visa required. Here's everything sourcing professionals and Canton Fair buyers need to know: the complete 2025–2026 guide written for people who are actually doing business.

📅 Updated September 2026⏱ 12 min read✍️ Zhujianger Editorial
At a glance
240 hrsMax stay
55Eligible countries
60Entry ports
24Provinces you can visit
No visaneeded in advance

In December 2024, China quietly expanded one of its most useful policies for international business travellers. The 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit programme now covers 55 countries and 60 entry ports, including Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, the gateway for the Canton Fair.

Most guides covering this policy are dry government FAQs. This one is written for the person who's about to fly into Baiyun, spend time sourcing in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, and then continue to Hong Kong or Singapore. We'll cover what you need, how immigration works on the ground, where you can go, and how to make the most of ten days.

✓ Good news for buyers

Business activities including trade shows, factory visits, and sourcing meetings are explicitly permitted under the 240-hour transit policy. This means you can attend the Canton Fair, visit Guangzhou's wholesale markets, and meet with suppliers, all without a visa.

Who Qualifies: The 55 Eligible Countries

The policy applies to passport holders from the following 55 countries. If your country is on this list, you can enter China without arranging a visa in advance, as long as you meet the three entry conditions (covered in the next section).

Europe (40 countries)

🇦🇹 Austria
🇧🇪 Belgium
🇧🇬 Bulgaria
🇨🇿 Czech Republic
🇩🇰 Denmark
🇪🇪 Estonia
🇫🇮 Finland
🇫🇷 France
🇩🇪 Germany
🇬🇷 Greece
🇭🇺 Hungary
🇮🇸 Iceland
🇮🇪 Ireland
🇮🇹 Italy
🇱🇻 Latvia
🇱🇮 Liechtenstein
🇱🇹 Lithuania
🇱🇺 Luxembourg
🇲🇰 N. Macedonia
🇲🇹 Malta
🇲🇩 Moldova
🇲🇨 Monaco
🇲🇪 Montenegro
🇳🇱 Netherlands
🇳🇴 Norway
🇵🇱 Poland
🇵🇹 Portugal
🇷🇴 Romania
🇷🇸 Serbia
🇸🇰 Slovakia
🇸🇮 Slovenia
🇪🇸 Spain
🇸🇪 Sweden
🇨🇭 Switzerland
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇺🇦 Ukraine
🇦🇱 Albania
🇧🇦 Bosnia & Herz.
🇨🇾 Cyprus
🇭🇷 Croatia

Americas (6 countries)

🇺🇸 United States
🇨🇦 Canada
🇧🇷 Brazil
🇲🇽 Mexico
🇦🇷 Argentina
🇨🇱 Chile

Asia-Pacific & Middle East (9 countries)

🇯🇵 Japan
🇰🇷 South Korea
🇸🇬 Singapore
🇦🇺 Australia
🇳🇿 New Zealand
🇦🇪 UAE
🇶🇦 Qatar
🇧🇳 Brunei
🇮🇩 Indonesia
⚠️ Not on the list?

If your country isn't listed above, you will need to apply for a visa before travel. Check the Guangzhou visa updates page or visit the official China Visa Application Service Center for your country. The list is actively expanding; Indonesia was only added in June 2025.

The Three Entry Conditions

Holding a passport from an eligible country is only the first requirement. You must meet all three conditions at the port of entry:

1

Passport from an eligible country

Your passport must be from one of the 55 qualifying nations listed above. It must have at least 3 months of validity remaining beyond your intended departure date. A nearly-expired passport is a common reason for entry complications, so check before you book.

2

Confirmed onward ticket to a third country

You must hold a confirmed ticket (with a specific date and seat number) departing China to a third country within 240 hours. The destination must not be the country you originally flew from. For example: departing the UK → entering at Guangzhou → onward to Singapore is valid. UK → Guangzhou → UK is not valid.

The ticket must be an interline booking (the return leg can connect through Hong Kong or Macau). Open-jaw itineraries (fly in to Guangzhou, fly out from Shanghai) are perfectly fine.

3

Completed China Arrival Card

The Arrival Card is now available digitally. Many airlines provide a QR code to complete it online before you fly, and some airports offer digital kiosks on arrival. A paper version is still available on the plane if needed. Your hotel address (or a supplier's address, if you haven't booked accommodation) goes in the "Address in China" field. Immigration may ask where you're staying, so have a specific hotel name ready even if you haven't confirmed. You can always change it after entry.

"Business activities, trade shows, and sourcing visits are all explicitly permitted. The only things you can't do are work for a Chinese employer, study, or conduct news reporting."

Entering via Guangzhou Baiyun Airport

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (airport code: CAN) is one of the 60 designated ports of entry for the 240-hour policy, and the main gateway for Canton Fair attendees. Here's exactly what to expect on arrival.

At immigration: step by step

1

Head to the foreign passport queue

After landing, follow signs for "International Arrivals" and join the non-Chinese passport queue. Do not join the e-gate lanes; those are for Chinese citizens and holders of recognised residence permits.

2

Hand over your passport, Arrival Card, and onward ticket

When you reach the counter, hand over your passport with the Arrival Card inside it. The officer will ask for your onward ticket, so have it ready on your phone (a screenshot works; you don't need signal). They may also ask the purpose of your visit: "business" or "attending trade show" is the right answer.

3

Biometrics

You'll have fingerprints scanned and a photo taken. This is standard procedure and takes about 60 seconds.

4

Check your entry stamp

Before leaving the counter, check that your passport is stamped with the correct entry date and "240H" or "TWOV" notation. If you can't read the stamp clearly, ask the officer. Your 240 hours begins at 00:00 the day after your entry date, not from the time you land.

ℹ️ Guangzhou-specific ports

The five designated entry points in Guangdong province are: Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, Shenzhen Bao'an Airport, Jieyang Chaoshan Airport, Nansha Port (passenger ferry), and Shekou Port (passenger ferry). You can enter at one and exit from a different port entirely, including one in another province such as Shanghai Pudong.

What to Have Ready

Immigration checklist

  • Passport (from eligible country, valid 3+ months beyond your last day in China)
  • Confirmed onward ticket with specific date and seat, saved offline on your phone
  • China Arrival Card: complete it digitally via airline QR code before flying, at an airport kiosk on arrival, or on the paper form handed out on the plane
  • Hotel name and address written down (WeChat screenshot, email, or note)
  • Supplier contact info or Canton Fair badge confirmation (useful if questioned)
  • Health insurance documentation (not required but good to have)

Where You Can Go During Your 240 Hours

The policy allows you to travel freely within 24 designated provinces and direct-governed municipalities. This covers almost every destination a business traveller or tourist would want to visit.

Guangzhou skyline at dusk, Zhujiang New Town
RegionKey CitiesTravel Time from GZ
Guangdong (your base)Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan, DongguanBase province
Hong Kong SARHong Kong~50 min (high-speed rail)
ShanghaiShanghai (Pudong, Jing'an)~8 hrs train / 2.5 hrs flight
BeijingBeijing~9 hrs train / 3 hrs flight
SichuanChengdu~2 hrs flight
ShaanxiXi'an~2.5 hrs flight
FujianXiamen, Fuzhou~1.5 hrs flight
ZhejiangHangzhou, Yiwu~2 hrs train from Shanghai
JiangsuSuzhou, Nanjing~30 min from Shanghai

Tibet, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia are not in the 24 designated regions and require separate permits even for visa-free travellers. For most Canton Fair attendees, you'll stay within Guangdong anyway.

Canton Fair Guangzhou

🏭 Canton Fair: Planning Your 240 Hours

The Canton Fair runs in three phases across April–May and October–November each year. Here's how to time your 240-hour window around it.

Arrive

Fly in 1–2 days before your target phase starts. You'll want time to recover from jet lag and sort your badge, hotel, and transport.

The Fair

Each phase is 5 days. Use your 240 hours to attend the phase, visit Guangzhou's wholesale markets, and take a Shenzhen factory day-trip.

Onward ticket

Book a confirmed flight to Hong Kong, Singapore, or your return hub within your 240-hour window. A Guangzhou to HK flight is under an hour.

Watch the dates

The 140th Canton Fair runs in October 2026. Check the Canton Fair dates page for exact phases before booking.

When Does the 240-Hour Clock Start?

This is the question that catches people out. The 240 hours does not start when you land. It starts at 00:00 (midnight) on the day after your entry date.

📅 Example calculation

You land in Guangzhou on Monday, 6 October at 14:30.

Your entry date is Monday 6 October. Your 240-hour clock starts at 00:00 on Tuesday 7 October. Your 240 hours expire at 00:00 on Friday 17 October.

You must depart China before midnight on the night of Thursday 16 October / Friday 17 October. An evening flight on Thursday is fine; a Friday morning flight is not.

Book your onward flight with a comfortable buffer. Avoid cutting it to 11:55pm on day ten, as immigration delays at popular departure airports can push you over the line.

Practical Tips for Your First Visit

Money and payments

China is almost entirely cashless, and the two main payment apps, WeChat Pay and Alipay, now both support foreign debit and credit cards through their international versions. Set up Alipay's international version before you fly: add a Visa or Mastercard, and you can pay in shops, restaurants, and taxis within minutes of landing. Some markets still prefer cash for large wholesale orders, so bring some USD or EUR to exchange at the airport arrivals hall (the Bank of China counter has reasonable rates).

Getting around Guangzhou

The Guangzhou Metro is excellent, extensive, and very cheap. The metro connects Baiyun Airport (via Line 3) directly to the Canton Fair complex at Pazhou (琶洲) on Line 8. Journey time: about 80 minutes. For taxis, use Didi (China's Uber equivalent): download the app, add your international card, and you can book rides in English. See the Guangzhou Metro route planner for maps and fares.

SIM cards and internet

Buy an eSIM before you travel. Several providers (Airalo, Nomad) offer affordable China data plans. Note that Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and most Western apps are blocked in mainland China, so research your connectivity options before you fly.

Language

Shangxiajiu pedestrian street Guangzhou at night

In Guangzhou's business areas (Pazhou, Tianhe, Zhujiang New Town) you'll find English-speaking staff in hotels and major restaurants. At the wholesale markets, English is limited but manageable. Google Translate's camera feature works well on product labels and market signs. Download the offline Mandarin and Cantonese packs before flying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

⚠️ These mistakes can get you refused entry

Onward ticket to the same country you departed from. Manchester → Guangzhou → London is not valid. You need to transit to a genuine third country.

An unconfirmed ticket. A "pending" booking or a refundable hold without a seat number doesn't count. Print or screenshot the confirmed booking with seat assignment.

Passport with less than 3 months validity. Check the expiry date before booking your trip, not after.

Overstaying. Overstaying the 240-hour window can result in fines and future visa complications. The authorities are strict about this.

What you cannot do on the 240-hour transit

  • Work for a Chinese employer (requires a Z visa)
  • Study (requires an X visa)
  • Conduct journalism or news reporting (requires a J visa)
  • Visit areas outside the 24 designated provinces/municipalities
  • Extend the 240-hour period (there are no extensions)

All 60 Entry Ports

As of the 2024 expansion, the policy covers 60 designated ports of entry across 24 provinces. Here are the most relevant ones for travellers coming through Guangdong and the Pearl River Delta:

PortTypeProvince
Guangzhou Baiyun International AirportAirGuangdong
Shenzhen Bao'an International AirportAirGuangdong
Jieyang Chaoshan International AirportAirGuangdong
Nansha Port (Passenger)SeaGuangdong
Shekou Port (Passenger)SeaGuangdong
Beijing Capital International AirportAirBeijing
Beijing Daxing International AirportAirBeijing
Shanghai Pudong International AirportAirShanghai
Shanghai Hongqiao International AirportAirShanghai
Chengdu Tianfu International AirportAirSichuan
Xi'an Xianyang International AirportAirShaanxi
Chongqing Jiangbei International AirportAirChongqing
Qingdao Jiaodong International AirportAirShandong
Tianjin Binhai International AirportAirTianjin

Continue reading on Zhujianger

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I attend the Canton Fair on the 240-hour transit? ⌄

Yes. Business activities including attending trade shows are explicitly permitted under the 240-hour visa-free transit. You can visit the Canton Fair complex at Pazhou, attend all sessions, and meet with exhibitors, all without a visa. What you cannot do is work as an employee of a Chinese company, which requires a different visa type.

Can I enter at Guangzhou and exit from Shanghai or Hong Kong? ⌄

Yes. Open-jaw routing is allowed. You can fly into Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, travel around Guangdong (and any of the other 23 designated provinces), and depart from a completely different city such as Shanghai, Beijing, or Shenzhen. Your onward ticket from any of the 60 designated ports counts as your exit, provided it's within the 240-hour window.

Many buyers fly Guangzhou in → spend time at the fair → take the high-speed rail to Hong Kong → fly home from HKG. This is one of the most efficient routings available.

Does my onward ticket have to be a flight? Can it be a ferry or train? ⌄

Your onward ticket must be to a third country via an international transport connection. Flights are the most common method. The high-speed rail from Guangzhou South or Shenzhen to Hong Kong (West Kowloon) is also valid, since Hong Kong is a separate customs territory. International ferries (Nansha to Macau, for example) can also work, depending on your routing. Confirm your specific routing with the relevant immigration authority if you're unsure.

Can I visit Yiwu market during my 240-hour transit? ⌄

Yes. Yiwu is in Zhejiang province, which is one of the 24 designated regions covered by the 240-hour policy. It's about a 2-hour high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao. Many buyers combine a few days in Guangzhou for the Canton Fair with a day trip or overnight stay in Yiwu. Just keep track of your 240-hour window carefully if you're running a packed itinerary.

I'm an American passport holder. Is the US on the visa-free list? ⌄

Yes. The United States is one of the 6 eligible countries from the Americas. US passport holders can enter China under the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, provided they meet all three entry conditions: eligible passport, confirmed onward ticket to a third country, and a completed Arrival Card.

Note that this is specifically the transit policy. If you want to stay longer than 10 days or make a return trip directly from the US, you'll still need to apply for a standard Chinese visa.

What happens if I overstay the 240 hours? ⌄

Overstaying is treated seriously. Penalties typically include a fine (up to ¥10,000 per day of overstay), potential detention, and a formal record that can affect future visa applications for China. There are no extensions available on the 240-hour transit policy. Once you're in, you must depart within the window. Build a buffer into your departure plans to account for potential flight delays or other disruptions.

Can I use Alipay and WeChat Pay without a Chinese bank account? ⌄

Yes. Both Alipay and WeChat Pay introduced international visitor modes in 2023–2024, allowing you to link a foreign Visa or Mastercard directly. Alipay's international version tends to be more stable for first-time visitors. Set it up before you travel, as you'll need to verify your phone number and card during setup, which is easier to do before landing. Once set up, you can pay almost everywhere in Guangzhou, including the Metro, taxis, restaurants, and wholesale markets.

How many times can I use the 240-hour transit policy? ⌄

There is no official limit on how many times you can use the 240-hour transit policy, but immigration officers have discretion. Repeatedly entering and exiting via transit (for example, three times in the same year with no onward visa activity) can attract scrutiny and risk refusal. If you're visiting China multiple times for business, consider applying for a standard business (M) visa, which typically grants multiple entries over 1–2 years.

Disclaimer

For informational purposes only. The information on this page is provided as a general guide and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa and transit policies are subject to change at any time without notice. You should not rely solely on this article when making travel, business, or immigration decisions.

Not an official source. Zhujianger is an independent travel and trade guide. This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Chinese government, the China National Immigration Administration, any embassy or consulate, or any airline or transport provider. Official and up-to-date policy information should always be obtained directly from the China National Immigration Administration (en.nia.gov.cn) or your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate.

Seek professional advice. If you have specific questions about your eligibility, your travel documents, or the legal implications of entering China under the transit policy, please consult a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer in your country before you travel. Individual circumstances vary and entry is ultimately at the discretion of Chinese immigration authorities.

]]>Sat, 26 Sep 2026 22:57:23 +1000<![CDATA[2025 China Business Visa Ultimate Guide]]>https://www.zhujianger.com/blogs/post/2025-china-business-visa-ultimate-guideChina’s business visa rules have changed for 2025! More countries now qualify for visa-free entry, but some still require an M-Class Visa with an invitation letter or TE Letter. Stay informed on requirements to avoid travel issues.]]>
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Must-see places in Guangzhou

Latest Changes for China Business Visas in 2025

Late 2024, saw a dramatic change in China’s business visa policy, with China unilaterally granting visa-free entry to numerous countries (and extending the duration of the stay).

We expect that that policy may be extended in duration (past the end of 2025) and cover more countries as some bilateral agreements have been signed - yet to come into force.

Entering China for business is critical for successfully doing business in China. It is essential to know the options for which visa method you can enter and how you can smoothly pass through across the Chinese border.

The visa-free option is not available to all countries. Even if it is, it is useful to understand the requirements for an “invitation” letter to apply for a business visa (especially if you intend to stay longer).

If there are any changes, to China’s visa policy, we will update this ultimate guide to China business visas in 2025.


We Keep This Ultimate Guide Up To Date


Though we keep our ultimate guide to business visas up to date, it is always essential to double-check the Chinese embassy or consulate’s website in your city for the latest information.


A Tourist Visa isn’t a Business Visa


If you are conducting business in China, whether it's visiting a trade fair or factory, it is essential that you enter on a business visa rather than a tourist visa.

If you have entered China for purposes other than tourism, there is a risk that your visa is cancelled; or any future visa application is rejected.

This ultimate guide is for business visas and not about international crew (D-Class), the “green card” (F-Class), cultural exchanges (G-Class), media (E-Class), tourists (L-Class), family reunion (Q-Class), talent (S-Class), visiting family (T-Class), temporary (X-Class) or study (Z-Class).

Many Western countries’ travel advisories for the mainland, Hong Kong and Macau are at Level 2, ‘exercise increased caution’. The scale is from Level 1 (exercise normal precautions) to Level 4 (do not travel). With increased concern about arbitrary rules, exit bans and the extent of consular services, it's prudent to take steps to protect yourself.

Even if you are entitled to visa-free entry into China, the documentation required for burdensome forms of business visa application is critical for minimising the risks associated with international travel.

Whether you enter China on a short-stay visa, visa-free or on an M-Class Business visa your business trip must be for ‘business’.

  • Negotiating contracts.
  • Visiting suppliers.
  • Overseeing the supply chains.
  • Building long-term partnerships.

To minimise business travel risks, even if you enter visa-free you should nonetheless prepare to have supporting documentation for doing business in China.


Russian Tour Groups Visa Exempt to China for 15 Days


Russians can join organised licensed travel company tour groups that are visa-exempt for 15 days. This ultimate guide relates to individual business travel rather than tour groups.


Entering Hong Kong/Macau and the Mainland are Different


Due to the ‘one country, two systems’ policy, there are different visa rules for Hong Kong and the mainland. Hong Kong grants a visa exemption to passport holders from over 170 countries (up to 90 days depending on your passport).

It is essential to consider how to enter the mainland as it is distinct from entering Hong Kong. Hong Kong is an important international travel hub (often with different air routes and airline ticket fees). Hong Kong is worthy of consideration in travel plans to the mainland.


Taiwan & Hong Kong


This guide does not consider the circumstances for Taiwan or Hong Kong travellers to enter the mainland.


The 5 Methods for Entering China on a Business Visa


There are several methods to obtaining entry into mainland China. These are subject to your nationality, entry duration, port of entry and business proof.


Visa-Free to Hainan


1. Visa-free entry is available for many nationalities to visit China’s tropical island province of Hainan. Hainan is a tourist destination and entry is restricted to the province. Therefore, it isn't practical as it isn’t China’s manufacturing hub.


24-144 Hour Visa On-Arrival for Selected Ports of Entry


2. The Short-stay transit visa is up to 144 hours for certain passport holders for entry at various ports. This visa on arrival is for a short visit. You can attend a trade show in the city you are transiting through. As such, it is not ideal for most business travellers as it is too short.


Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Card


3. The APEC business visa is an elite 5-year, 30-60-day multiple-entry visa for passport holders from ‘participating’ APEC economies. This is only available for 19 countries and requires business travellers to demonstrate their need for the visa by conducting significant APEC-related trade.


15-30 Day Visa-Free Entry for 53 Countries


4. Twenty-five countries, with mutual agreements have a 30-day visa-free exemption. This year, China has unilaterally granted a further 38 countries visa-free entry for about 30 days until the end of 2025.


Long Stay “M” Class Business Visa


5. The ‘M’ Class business visa is the most common type of visa obtained by business people to conduct business in mainland China. To successfully apply for an 'M' visa; you require an “Invitation Letter”.


But wait… Some Countries Require the “TE Letter” (Verification of Identity Letter)


It is important to note that some passport holders from emerging countries will have an additional requirement that the invitation letter be issued by a Chinese local authority (the “TE Letter”).


China Business Travel Visa Decision-Matrix


This is Zhujianger’s China business travel visa decision matrix to help you apply for the right for you.




Why You Should Know About the “TE Letter” & Hainan visa, even if you don’t need it


All countries have different visa policies regarding other foreign citizens entering their borders. To gain insight into business travel to China, even if you don’t need a “TE Letter” or a visa to Hainan - they are instructive.

Unsurprisingly, visa policies of any country are linked to the citizen's nationality and which passport they are holding. Business visas are generally onerous compared to tourist visas and may require proof of hotel bookings, flights, the ability to support yourself during your stay and an itinerary.

Furthermore, a visa may impose restrictions on the activities that a person who is visiting another country can conduct, whether that be work, education, or where within a country a person can travel. In short:

·The “TE Letter” requires significant documentation to verify that you are conducting genuine and substantial business. Understanding the TE Letter gives an appreciation for the form of the ordinary invitation letter - required for the M Class business visa; and business travel even if visa-free.

 

·The Hainan visa is limited to travel within the island province and restricts movement off the island. Similarly, the “G Class” transit-without visa (TWOV) restricts movement to the port of entry.


You Need to Demonstrate Business Proof for Business Visas


China requires many passport holders from ‘emerging’ economies to demonstrate an additional need to come to China for business. These include Afghanistan, Iran, Türkiye, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and some Middle Eastern and African countries.

Advanced / OECD economy countries generally don’t need the TE/PU Letter; however, the M-Class business visa requires an ‘invitation’ letter.

The “TE Letter” is the toughest requirement to demonstrate that you are doing business with China. It requires an “inviter” (factory, trade fair, or partner that is relevantly licenced) to apply for an invitation letter and be a guarantor – to apply to its local government’s Foreign Affairs Bureau for a Verification of Identification Letter.

To minimise business risks of travel, it’s sensible to have supporting documents about your bone fides for doing business in China.


How to Apply for a TE/PU Letter for an invitation letter to obtain a business visa to China


The verification letter is required for M-class business visa applications from certain emerging economies. A Chinese company must act as the inviter and request their local government foreign affairs office issue the Verification of Identity Letter (邀请核实单). You will need:


1. Your travel documents

2. The dispatch letter from the invitee’s company

3. A letter from the inviter, inviting you

4. A letter from the inviter, guaranteeing your visit


Note: The TE/PU Letter was a Covid-era document that served the same purpose. Today it is correctly referred to as the Verification of Identity Letter.

For the Chinese company to successfully apply to its local foreign affairs office sufficient supporting documentation is required to verify your identity as a genuine businessperson.


There are Risks for the Potential Inviter, and an Invitation Letter doesn’t Guarantee a Visa


There is a risk to the potential invitee company as they must act as guarantees for you and maybe liable for you. The verification letter does not in itself guarantee that ultimately the M-class visa will be granted.


Why you won’t be granted a TE/PU Letter (or M-Visa)


Without being able to demonstrate that you are doing a significant volume and value of trade; adequate documentation – and being able to verify your identity risks the TE/PU Letter or visa not being granted.

Therefore, you must prepare your TE/PU Letter and visa application thoroughly and with sufficient supporting documentation (in the right form). Even if you are travelling visa-free you should have these documents on hand to minimise business travel risks.

For example, a major listed company can dispatch more of its employees for a long duration - compared to a small private company (if it can at all).


How to Write a Quality Invitation Letter?


The factors relevant for consideration for granting the verification letter are supporting documents that are certified/notarised:

  •  Your passport and identification documents.
  •  Your company letter dispatching you to China to meet with the inviter on behalf of your company.
  •  Your company’s license, proof of business address, and taxation record.
  •  Your proof of doing business in international trade with China, and with the inviter company (invoices, contracts, purchase orders, factory/office visits, trade fair attendance, shipping records, bills of lading)
  •  Your itinerary, flights, hotel bookings and transportation arrangements.
  •  Your financial records of your ability to afford to travel.
  •  Your inviter’s company licence, compliance record and tax record


Know your Chinese Embassy/Consulate & Port of Entry


Whether you are applying for a visa or entering visa-free; you should know your respective local Chinese embassy/consulate or port of entry. Why?


Each embassy/consulate or port of entry may have a different way of processing your visa or entry.

1. If there is no Chinese embassy/consulate in your city or country. You need to check which of the nearest embassy/consulate processes visa applications from your location.

 

If you are applying outside of your relevant embassy/consulate, you might need to provide further evidence of your current address which is within the responsibility of that embassy/consulate.

 

2. China borders 14 other countries and has an array of border crossings: international airports, rail ports, ferry ports, road crossings, bus crossings and land ports. As such, the rules at each port differ and you need to be aware of the nuisances of crossing the border at that point.


You should be obtaining an application from your Embassy/Consulate to which you are applying


You should complete the application form from the embassy/consulate that you need to apply (and the latest version). This illustrates the need to know your embassy/consulate as they are likely to only process that embassy/consulate’s form (download it from the specific embassy/consulate website).


Hainan Visa-Free


Since the island province of Hainan, in the South China Sea, has become a ‘free trade port’ – up to 30-day visa-free entry has been granted for 59 countries:

·All European Union members of the Schengen Visa scheme (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden).

·Albania, Argentina Australia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Iceland, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The key condition is visa-free entry must be via a direct flight to Hainan, and travellers are limited to Hainan province itself. Therefore, the Hainan visa free option is unlikely to the best for business travellers.

With many of the same countries with Hainan visa-free status, the new China wide visa-free entry largely makes the Hainan visa-free status redundant.


Transit-Without-Visa (TWOV)


Though the Transit-Without-Visa is available for up to 54 countries it’s essential to check the port of entry for its specific rules. Different ports of entry have different rules as some ports may permit entry to different passport holders for varying durations.


The Short-Stay Visa is Restrict to the City Around the Port of Entry


Other than time, the key limitation to the short-stay visa is that the visa holder is restricted to the city of the port of entry. Therefore, if you enter Beijing or Shanghai – you must stay in that city as it is merely a transit visa and you must be on your connecting journey.


54 countries can visit for a short-stay transit visa for business


Passport holders of 54 nationalities in Europe Schengen Visa Scheme (40), the Americas (6), Oceania (2), and Asia (6) can enter China without the need to apply for a Chinese visa with a short-stay transit visa.

These countries that are eligible for a “G Class” Transit visa upon arrival are:

Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States


Story-Stay Visas Require Valid Travel Documents to a Third Country


If they hold valid international travel documents and possess a third-country visa along with an interline ticket with a fixed date and seat to a third country (or region) within 72/144 hours upon arrival (as well as hotel accommodation receipts).

To ‘apply’ for the short-stay visa is as simple as ticking a box on the arrivals card if you hold one of the passports granted a short-stay visa.


You must check the requirements of the specific port of entry


You must check the requirements of the *specific* port of entry that you intend to enter China as each port has different requirements.

A port may allow a different visa-free period compared to another port for the same passport holder. One port may allow a specific passport holder to enter, while another port the passport holder isn’t eligible for entry.

The visa upon arrival is merely that; a short-stay visa, for transiting through China. The availability of entry visa-free for a day or few is subject to the rules of that port of entry and your passport. You need to check the specific rules are your intended port of entry and have a ticket book that leaves before the short stay expires.


The APEC travel card


The Asia Economic Cooperation (APEC) allows VIP entry through a green channel at border crossings and visa-free access across participating APEC economies including China.

The APEC business travel card (ABTC) offers streamlined entry and visa-free travel for up to 60 and 90 days over a five-year lifetime.

The participating APEC economies are Australia, Brunei, Chile, Mainland China, Hong Kong Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand and Vietnam.

The US and Canada are both transitional though they are APEC economies they are merely ‘transitional’ APEC economies for the purposes of the ABTC (and as such, the ABTC isn’t available for the US or Canada).


Visa Free


There are 53 countries eligible for visa-free travel to China and more are expected in 2025. There are two types of visa-free entry:

· 25 countries now have mutual visa agreements with China allowing for up to 30 days of visa-free travel to the mainland and the scheme is indefinite as it is reciprocal in nature.ti

 

· 38 countries have unilateral visa-free entry to China in 2025 (the scheme ends on December 31, 2025).

To ‘apply’ for the visa-free is as simple as ticking a box on the arrivals card if you hold one of the passports granted a short-stay visa.


Reciprocal Visa-Free Entry


The mutual visa-free entry countries for mainland China:

·Albania, Armenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, San Marion (90 days)

·Mauritius (60 days)

·Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Dominica, Ecuador, Fiji, Georgia, Grenada, Kazakhstan, Maldives, Mongolia, Qatar, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Suriname, Thailand, Tonga, United Arab Emirates (30 days)


Unilateral Visa-Free Entry


Temporary scheme for visa-free entry countries for mainland China:

In 2025, Malaysia, Oman, Solomon Islands, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan are expected to have a mutual agreement that will become operative.


M-Class Business Visa


Business travellers to China must obtain an “invitation letter,” to apply for an M-Class Business visa. An invitation letter is a letter from a licensed Chinese factory, trade fair or partner inviting you to visit.


What should an invitation letter be for a China business visa?


A China business invitation letter must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a formal, signed letter on the company's letterhead
  • Include the company's full address and phone numbers in China
  • State the date the letter was issued
  • Include the applicant's full name, date of birth, gender, and passport number
  • State the applicant's relationship to the inviting company
  • Include the first entry and exit dates in China
  • State the purpose of the visit
  • List the cities to be visited
  • State the source of financial support
  • Include the company stamp and signature 

The person signing the letter must include their full name and position in the company. The name and signature must match the one on their passport.


How Can I Get an Invitation Letter if I don’t have a Chinese Partner or have Never Been to 

China?


The process of doing business with China starts before you get there. Begin to reach out to potential partners in China in relevant product categories. Investigate relevant trade fairs for the product category. Locate potential sourcing agents, freight forwarders and quality control agents.

Through this process, you will meet a potential Chinese business partner who is likely to be able to provide you with an invitation letter – as you are doing genuine business that satisfies the standard required.

You should not be paying for an invitation letter. You are doing real business with a Chinese partner not purchasing a service.


What should support an Application for an M-Class Business Visa to China?


Prepare required documents

·Passport with at least six months validity (and sufficient blank pages for the visa and entry stamps).

·Completed visa application form (get a fresh form directly from the embassy/consulate website).

·Passport-sized photo meeting visa standards.

·Proof of travel and accommodation arrangements.


Application Tips For an M-Class Business Visa to China


1. You might only be granted a short stay on your first trip with a single entry. Subsequent visa applications might be granted for between 30-60-90 days for single or multiple entries.

 

2. Compiling all the supporting documents takes time, apply as early as possible.

 

3. Consider the strength of your supporting documents in demonstrating verification of your identity, your business, and your Chinese partner and the persuasiveness of your business case.

 

4. Be aware of when Chinese national holidays are held and if the embassy/consulate/visa processing centre is closed.

 

5. The application fees vary from country to country, check your local Chinese embassy/consulate.

 

6. Processing times can be expedited for additional fees and you should consider how long your local wait time is expected to be.


Visa-Extensions


Coming into the last week before your visa expires, you can attend the local Exit & Bureau in China and seek a visa extension.


Tips for Crossing the Border


Every border crossing is different, and you may be entering mainland China for the first time or on a new visa or passport. Therefore consider the following:

 

· When does the passport expire and is there sufficient time to complete the permissible stay on the visa?

· First-time travellers are required to scan their faces and fingerprints at machines after disembarking and before transiting through customs.

· Frequent business travellers should register for the E-Channel for streamlined customs processing.


Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available sources and best practices as of the date of publication. Visa policies and regulations are subject to change without notice and may vary depending on individual circumstances, consulate locations, and government updates. We strongly recommend verifying all details with official Chinese embassies, consulates, or immigration authorities before making travel plans. The authors and publishers of this blog are not responsible for any decisions made based on this information.

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