**Discover Beijing visa-free for 240 hours!** Eligible travelers from 53 countries can explore the capital’s iconic sights like the Great Wall and Forbidden City—just hold onward tickets and stay within Beijing. No visa needed! 🇨🇳✈️
Visa-Free Transit, Beijing Guide, Travel Tips
China’s 144-hour visa-free transit policy (extended to 240 hours in Beijing) offers international travelers a convenient way to explore the capital while en route to a third country. If you’re transiting through Beijing, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this opportunity:
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### **Key Airports for Visa-Free Transit**
- **Eligible Entry/Exit Points**:
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) **or** Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX).
You must enter and exit through the same airport *or* switch between these two airports.
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### **Who Qualifies?**
You’re eligible if:
1. You hold a passport from one of the [53 eligible countries](https://www.nia.gov.cn/En/), including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations.
2. You have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country/region (not your origin country) within **240 hours** (10 days).
3. Your stay is strictly for tourism, business meetings, or short-term visits (*not* work, study, or long-term stays).
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### **Required Documents**
Prepare these for immigration:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- Printed flight itinerary showing entry/exit dates and flight numbers.
- Proof of accommodation in Beijing (e.g., hotel reservation).
- Visa or residency permit for your third destination (if applicable).
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### **Top Things to Do in 240 Hours**
Maximize your stay with these highlights:
- **Cultural Gems**: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace.
- **Modern Beijing**: CCTV Tower, Wangfujing shopping district, 798 Art Zone.
- **Local Flavors**: Peking duck dinners, hutong tours, traditional tea ceremonies.
- **Day Trips**: Great Wall sections (Mutianyu or Badaling), Ming Tombs.
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### **Critical Reminders**
1. **Strict Timeline**: Overstaying even by 1 hour may result in fines, detention, or future entry bans.
2. **No Extensions**: The 240-hour period is fixed. Plan flights carefully.
3. **Register Accommodation**: Hotels will handle this automatically. If staying with friends, report to local police within 24 hours.
4. **Prohibited Activities**: Paid work, journalism, or religious preaching require special permits.
5. **Emergency Contacts**: Save these numbers:
- Immigration Hotline: +86-10-12367
- Police: 110 (emergency), 112 (non-emergency).
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### **If Your Plans Change**
- **Flight Delays/Cancellations**: Contact your airline immediately and notify Beijing Immigration via 12367 to avoid penalties.
- **Early Departure**: No issue, but ensure your exit is recorded properly.
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### **Final Tips**
- **Currency**: Exchange money at airport counters or use ATMs (UnionPay widely accepted).
- **Transport**: Download DiDi (China’s Uber) or use subway/bus (English signage available).
- **Language**: Have your hotel’s address written in Chinese for taxi drivers.
By following these guidelines, you can seamlessly enjoy Beijing’s blend of ancient heritage and cutting-edge innovation under the 240-hour transit policy. Safe travels! 🇨🇳✈️
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**Need more help?**
Visit [Beijing Immigration Service](https://www.nia.gov.cn/En/) or inquire at airport immigration counters.