China Extends 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit to 55 Countries Excluding India

China has expanded its 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy to include Indonesia, raising the total number of eligible countries to 55. This visa-free transit allows travelers from these countries to enter through designated ports in China and stay visa-free while en route to a third country for purposes such as tourism, business, cultural exchanges, and family visits. The policy stems from diplomatic discussions aimed at strengthening regional integration, particularly with ASEAN members, and is part of China's broader strategy to enhance global openness and economic cooperation. Despite this expansion, India remains excluded from the program due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and strategic mistrust with China. The visa-free transit also includes multiple provinces and ports across China, with restrictions on activities such as formal employment or study without a specific visa. This initiative reflects China's commitment to boosting tourism, facilitating smoother international travel, and deepening people-to-people exchanges with participating countries.