China Expands Visa-Free Transit to Indonesia: 10-Day Stays Now Available at 60 Ports

The rhythmic clatter of boarding gates echoes across Beijing Capital Airport as Indonesia’s travelers join a growing wave of global visitors benefiting from China’s expanded visa-free transit policy. Effective immediately, Indonesian passport holders can now enjoy 10-day visa-free stays when transiting through any of China’s 60 designated ports, marking a significant boost to ASEAN-China mobility.

China’s Visa-Free Transit: What It Means for Indonesia

The updated policy allows Indonesian nationals with confirmed onward tickets to third countries to engage in tourism, business exchanges, and family visits during their stay. This expansion—confirmed by China’s National Immigration Administration—now covers 55 eligible countries, streamlining travel for nearly 90% of international transit passengers. As one immigration official stated, “This strengthens China-Indonesia cooperation and simplifies trade and investment flows between our nations.” Ports include major hubs like Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, and Chengdu Tianfu, with full transit privileges activated upon arrival.

Foreign Ministry data reveals the strategic impact: China recorded over 9 million foreign entries in 2024—a 40% year-on-year surge—while new foreign enterprises established in Q1 2025 jumped 12.1%. The policy targets high-value tourism and business networks, with Indonesian travelers now able to explore Beijing’s Forbidden City, Shanghai’s Bund, or Shenzhen’s tech hubs without visa paperwork.

ASEAN Integration and China’s Open-Door Strategy

Parallel to Indonesia’s inclusion, China launched a new 5-year multiple-entry visa for ASEAN nationals (including Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, and Singapore) plus observer Timor-Leste. Business travelers and their families can now stay 180 days per entry, accelerating regional integration. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized: “China will keep expanding visa-free access and welcomes global visitors for business, tourism, and cultural exchange.”

This dual-track approach—short-term transit waivers plus long-term business visas—reflects China’s bid to reclaim its pre-pandemic tourism boom, which peaked at 65 million arrivals annually. Industry analysts note ASEAN travelers could inject $28B into China’s economy by 2026, with aviation routes like Jakarta-Guangzhou and Bangkok-Chongqing poised for 30% capacity growth.

As China accelerates its global connectivity, Indonesian and ASEAN travelers now hold unprecedented access to the world’s second-largest economy. This visa liberalization signals not just streamlined transit, but a gateway to cultural exchange and economic partnership. Verify your eligibility at China’s National Immigration Administration portal and plan your journey today.

Must Know

Q: How long can Indonesians stay in China visa-free?
A: Indonesian passport holders transiting to third countries can stay up to 10 days without a visa across 60 Chinese ports. The stay permits tourism, family visits, and business meetings.

Q: Which ASEAN countries get China’s new 5-year visa?
A: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste qualify for business-focused multiple-entry visas allowing 180-day stays per entry.

Q: Do I need special documents for visa-free transit?
A: Yes. Travelers must show confirmed onward tickets departing within 10 days, valid passports, and entry documents for their destination country.

Q: Can I leave the transit city during my visa-free stay?
A: Absolutely. The policy permits travel to any Chinese city, unlike older transit rules restricting movement to specific regions.

Q: How does this impact China-ASEAN trade?
A: Simplified travel is expected to boost cross-border investment, with 18,000+ new foreign companies established in China in early 2025 alone.