Starting November 5, Guangdong Province in the southern Chinese mainland has expanded its 240-hour visa-free transit program to five additional ports. This move aims to streamline travel for overseas visitors flocking to the 15th National Games, taking place from November 9 to 21 across Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao.
The program now covers the following gateways:
- Guangzhou Pazhou Ferry Terminal
- Hengqin Port
- Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Port
- Zhongshan Port
- West Kowloon Station of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link
With a 10-day window, travelers can land at any of these ports and stay visa-free for up to 240 hours (10 days). Whether you’re an esports fan heading to the stadium, a digital nomad scouting China’s tech hubs, or a cultural explorer eager to savor Cantonese cuisine, this transit policy cuts red tape and amplifies flexibility.
Data highlight: Since its launch, Guangdong’s visa-free scheme has welcomed tens of thousands of travelers. Adding five more ports is projected to boost short-term visits by 20% during the National Games.
Travel tips:
- Register your stay online or at local authorities within 24 hours.
- Plan your itinerary across Guangdong’s coastal cities and neighboring Hong Kong and Macao to maximize your 240-hour stay.
- Check transport schedules for the high-speed rail and ferry links connecting these ports.
By cutting visa barriers, the Chinese mainland’s southern gate is tossing the door wide open—inviting young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and sports enthusiasts to dive into a vibrant blend of tech innovation, cultural heritage, and world-class events.
Reference(s):
Guangdong expands 240-hour visa-free transit to 5 additional ports
cgtn.com
