China introduces new 72-hour visa-free options
The China National Tourist Office reports a new policy will take effect on Jan. 1 to enable transit travellers from Canada and 44 other countries to enjoy a 72-hour visa-free stay in Beijing or Shanghai. Citizens of Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Holland, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar will benefit. To enjoy this visa-free stay, transit foreign travellers will be asked to present the following documents once they arrive at Beijing or Shanghai airports (Beijing Capital International Airport, Pudong International Airport or Hongqiao International Airport): valid international travel documents, valid visa of the destination country (region) and air ticket or other proof (with date and seat shown) of the connecting flight to a third country (region) that departs within 72 hours. The policy is aimed at making Beijing and Shanghai more accessible to the world and is expected to attract more overseas travellers. However, visitors without a Chinese visa will not be allowed to travel outside the two cities or stay for more than 72 hours. (http://www.tourismchina-ca.com)
