China introduces 240-hour visa-free transit for Kyrgyz citizens

THE NEWS: Starting August 20, 2026, China’s National Immigration Administration announced that Kyrgyz citizens holding ordinary passports can stay visa‑free for up to 240 hours (10 days) while transiting to a third country, and also enjoy a separate visa‑free regime of up to 30 days on Hainan Island.

DETAILS:

• Travelers must possess a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region to qualify for the 240‑hour transit exemption.
• The 240‑hour visa‑free entry is limited to 65 designated international border checkpoints, including those in Beijing and Shanghai.
• The policy applies exclusively to Kyrgyz citizens with ordinary passports for foreign travel.
• Under the transit scheme, visitors must remain within the areas covered by the 240‑hour policy and cannot move freely throughout China.
• The 30‑day visa‑free stay applies only to Hainan Province.

FAQ

When does the 240‑hour visa‑free transit for Kyrgyz citizens begin?
The 240‑hour visa‑free transit for Kyrgyz citizens starts on August 20, 2026, as announced by China’s National Immigration Administration.

How long can Kyrgyz citizens stay visa‑free in Hainan Province?
Kyrgyz citizens can stay visa‑free on Hainan Island for up to 30 days under a separate regime that took effect alongside the transit policy.

What are the requirements to use China’s 240‑hour visa‑free transit scheme?
Travelers must hold an ordinary Kyrgyz passport, have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country, enter through one of 65 designated checkpoints such as Beijing or Shanghai, and stay within the designated transit areas.

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