Yunnan 144-Hour Free Visa Transit Policy

Yunnan has recently expanded its 144-hour visa-free transit policy, making it the latest region in China to offer travelers the convenience of staying for up to six days without needing a visa. This policy is ideal for those transiting through China and looking to explore some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures in Yunnan.

Who Can Apply for a 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Stay in Yunnan?

As of July 2024, the Yunnan 144-hour visa-free transit policy applies to citizens from 54 countries who hold valid international travel documents and a ticket for onward travel to a third country or region. This ticket must have confirmed seats and a departure time within 144 hours.

Eligible travelers can enter Yunnan through the Kunming Changshui International Airport, Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, or Mohe Rail Port. Once in Yunnan, you can explore the designated regions without worrying about obtaining a visa, provided you stay within the administrative areas of Kunming, Lijiang, Yuxi, Pu'er, Chuxiong, Dali, Xishuangbanna, Honghe, and Wenshan.

What Countries are Eligible for the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

As of July 2024, citizens from 54 countries can enjoy this visa-free stay in Yunnan, including:

Europe (40 countries): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Monaco, Norway.

America (6 countries): the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.

Oceania (2 countries): Australia, New Zealand.

Asia (6 countries): South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar.

What are the Eligible Transit Ports?

Eligible travelers can enter Yunnan through the following transit ports:

1. Kunming: Kunming Changshui International Airport
2. Lijiang: Lijiang Sanyi International Airport
3. Mohe: Mohe Rail Port

Travelers must remain within the administrative regions of Kunming, Lijiang, Yuxi, Pu'er, Chuxiong, Dali, Xishuangbanna, Honghe, and Wenshan for the duration of their stay.

What are the Restrictions of the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

The 144-hour visa-free transit policy is specific to certain conditions:

1. It applies only to citizens from the 54 eligible countries.
2. Travelers must transit through one of the eligible ports in Yunnan and cannot use this policy if their trip is a round-trip between their home country and Yunnan.
3. The destination and place of departure must be different. For example:

 Not Eligible: US ⇒ Kunming ⇒ US
 Eligible: US ⇒ Kunming ⇒ Veitnam/Hongkong

What Materials Do You Need to Prepare?

To ensure a smooth entry under the 144-hour visa-free transit policy, travelers should have the following documents prepared:

1. A valid passport (with at least six months of validity remaining).
2. A confirmed onward ticket to a third country (or region) with a departure within 144 hours.
3. A visa for the third country if required.
4. A completed Entry/Exit Card, which can be filled out upon arrival.

How to Apply for 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

If you qualify for the Yunnan 144-hour visa-free transit, the application process is straightforward:

1. Upon arrival at one of the eligible transit ports, present your passport, onward ticket, and any required visa for the third country.
2. Complete the “Arrival Card for Temporary Entry Foreigners.”
3. Apply for the 144-hour stay permit at the “24/144-hour International Transfer” counter.
4. Claim your luggage (if applicable).
5. Pass through customs and begin your journey in Yunnan.

How is the Duration of the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy Calculated?

The 144-hour period begins at 00:00 on the day following your entry into Yunnan. For example, if you arrive at Kunming Changshui International Airport on a Monday at 10:00 AM, your 144-hour period starts from 00:00 on Tuesday, giving you until 23:59 on Sunday to explore Yunnan.

How to Spend a 144-Hour Layover in Yunnan?

Yunnan offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from vibrant city life to serene natural landscapes. Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your 144-hour stay:

Day 1: Kunming
- Explore Green Lake Park and take a Citywalk along Huang Gongdong Street.
- Visit the Yunnan Provincial Museum.
- Head to the Western Hills for sunset views over Dian Lake.

Day 2: Lijiang
- Fly or take a high-speed train to Lijiang.
- Spend the day in Lijiang Old Town, visiting the Dongba Cultural Museum and Black Dragon Pool Park.

Day 3: Lijiang
- Take a day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or visit nearby Shuhe Ancient Town.

Day 4: Dali
- Travel to Dali and explore the Old Town, Three Pagodas, and Erhai Lake.
- Consider hiking Cangshan Mountain or taking a boat ride on Erhai.

Day 5: Xishuangbanna
- Fly to Xishuangbanna and visit the Tropical Botanical Garden.
- Explore the local Dai culture and, if visiting during the right season, participate in the Water Splashing Festival.

Day 6: Return to Kunming
- Return to Kunming and prepare for your onward journey.

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