The former short layover in Beijing (PEK) can now become an appealing mini-vacation: foreign visitors arriving in China’s capital will be allowed to stay without a visa for up to six days.
This extended visa-free window gives travelers the chance to explore not only Beijing’s historic and cultural highlights, but also nearby destinations in the region, including the coastal city of Tianjin.
The six-day allowance is part of a broader effort to attract foreign investment and encourage businesses to relocate to the area. As part of the same initiative, Chinese authorities plan to simplify business registration by reducing required permits from 15 to a single license, streamlining the process for new companies.
Until recently, transit passengers could remain in Beijing for up to 72 hours; that limit was raised to 144 hours in late July. The new six-day, visa-free option will come into effect toward the end of the calendar year and will apply to citizens of Schengen countries, select other European nations, the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, South Korea, Japan, and several additional countries.