As of November 17, 2023, Norwegian citizens can take advantage of China's new and expanded 72/144-hour transit visa-free policy. This initiative, introduced by the Chinese National Immigration Administration, encompasses a total of 54 countries, including Norway.

Expanded City Coverage

Several major cities have adopted the 144-hour transit policy, providing increased accessibility for international travelers. 

Cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Qinhuangdao, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Jieyang, Shenyang, Dalian, Qingdao, Chongqing, and an additional 20 cities like Chengdu, Xi’an, Xiamen, Wuhan, and Kunming now participate in this extended transit visa-free program.

Transit Qualifications

To qualify for this program, Norwegian citizens, along with travelers from other eligible countries, must possess valid international travel documents and a connecting ticket with a confirmed date and seat. 

This grants them a visa-free stay of either 72 or 144 hours. During this period, visitors can engage in various short-term activities, including tourism and temporary business visits.

Application Process

Individuals meeting the specified conditions can apply for the 144-hour visa-free transit at the entry-exit border inspection authorities in 20 designated cities in China. Alternatively, the 72-hour visa-free transit can be applied for in three specific cities. Importantly, application is not possible in cities that have not yet implemented this policy.

Policy Impact

Since its initiation in January 2013, China's 72/144-hour transit exemption policy has positively impacted over 500,000 foreigners, providing increased convenience for international travelers. 

The National Immigration Administration emphasizes its commitment to adapt to the changing global landscape, aligning with international economic and trade standards while fostering continuous reform and innovation in immigration and entry-exit policies.

Evolving Engagement and Globalization

The administration's proactive approach addresses the evolving needs of both Chinese and foreign individuals, facilitating international economic and trade exchanges. 

By meeting new expectations and demands, China aims to contribute to promoting economic globalization and supporting its path to open, innovative, and high-quality development.

Visa-Free Transit Privileges for Norway

In May of the same year, citizens of Norway were granted visa-free entry to China for up to six days, aligning Norway with 53 other nations enjoying similar privileges. 

It's essential to note that individuals intending to benefit from visa-free transit must travel to a third country after departing China, as arriving without continuing the journey will be considered illegal entry by Chinese authorities. 

This extension of visa-free transit privileges reflects China's commitment to facilitating international travel while ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.

FAQ

1. Who is eligible for China's 72/144-hour transit visa-free policy?

Norwegian citizens, among those from 54 countries, are eligible for China's expanded transit visa-free policy.

2. Which cities in China have adopted the 144-hour transit policy?

Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Nanjing, Guangzhou, and others, totaling 23 cities, now offer the extended 144-hour transit policy.

3. What are the requirements for the transit visa-free policy?

Eligible travelers need valid international travel documents and a confirmed connecting ticket, granting them a visa-free stay of up to 72 or 144 hours for short-term activities like tourism or business visits.

4. Where can one apply for the visa-free transit?

Applicants meeting the conditions can apply at entry-exit border inspection authorities in 20 cities for the 144-hour visa-free transit or in three cities for the 72-hour visa-free transit. Application isn't possible in cities without this policy.

5. How many foreigners have benefited from China's transit exemption policy since its launch?

Since its inception in January 2013, the transit exemption policy has provided convenience to over 500,000 foreigners, facilitating their transit through China.

6. What is the objective behind China's proactive approach towards immigration policies?

China aims to align with international economic and trade standards, continuously reform immigration policies, and cater to evolving needs, fostering economic globalization and innovation.

7. What specific privileges were extended to citizens of Norway earlier this year?

Norwegian citizens gained visa-free entry to China for up to six days, similar to 53 other nations. However, it's crucial to note that travelers must proceed to a third country after departing China; failing to do so could result in illegal entry.

8. How does the Chinese government view travelers under the visa-free transit policy?

Arriving in China under the visa-free transit policy without continuing the journey to a third country is considered illegal entry by Chinese authorities.

9. Is there a specific timeline for the implementation of this policy for Norway?

As of November 17, 2023, Norwegian citizens can immediately benefit from China's 72/144-hour transit visa-free policy.