Henan offers a 240-hour (10-day) transit visa exemption for eligible foreign visitors, valid for entry via Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport and permitting travel anywhere within Henan’s administrative jurisdiction.
Eligible Persons
Nationals of 54 countries (including the US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, the UAE, etc.). Requirements: holders of valid international travel documents and confirmed onward connecting tickets with fixed dates and seats departing within 240 hours, who transit through Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport en route to a third country or region.
Duration of Stay
The exemption period was extended from 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days) in December 2024. Qualified visitors may move around Henan for short-term stays including tourism, business trips and family visits.
Policy Exclusions
This scheme does not cover arrivals via land ports such as high-speed rail terminals and road border checkpoints. It is unavailable to those whose final destination is mainland China, as the policy is solely for transit. Visas are mandatory for work, study, journalistic reporting and other relevant purposes.
Bilateral Mutual Visa Exemption
China has concluded ordinary passport mutual visa waiver agreements with several countries (e.g., Serbia, the UAE, Maldives). These nationwide arrangements are not unique to Henan. Visitors entering under such bilateral waivers and staying only in Henan must abide by China’s national visa exemption rules, with a standard maximum stay of 30 days.
Reminder
Travellers not qualifying for transit exemption or any bilateral visa-free arrangement must apply for a Chinese visa in advance. Before travelling, check the latest regulations on the official website of the National Immigration Administration or with Chinese embassies and consulates abroad.