China's visa-free regime for Kyrgyzstanis excludes Xinjiang region

China has implemented a visa-free regime for citizens of Kyrgyzstan, but this exemption does not apply to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR). The country offers 31 regions with visa-free transit, yet XUAR is not among them. Hong Kong and Macao maintain their own distinct migration policies.

Starting August 20, Kyrgyz nationals holding ordinary passports can benefit from two visa-free options. The first is a 240-hour (up to 10 days) visa-free transit, accessible through 65 designated entry points, including major airports like Beijing and Shanghai. To qualify, travelers must possess a confirmed ticket to a third country or region and remain within the designated transit areas.

Separately, Kyrgyz citizens are eligible for a 30-day visa-free stay in Hainan province. Entry to the island is permitted through designated ports, allowing visitors to explore Hainan for tourism or business purposes without a pre-arranged Chinese visa. This initiative aims to facilitate short-term trips for various purposes, including visiting relatives and private affairs.

However, the visa-free regimes are not applicable to all activities. Individuals planning to work, study, or engage in journalistic activities in China must obtain the appropriate Chinese visa in advance. With the inclusion of Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam, the number of countries eligible for the 240-hour transit visa has risen to 57, while 61 countries now qualify for the 30-day Hainan visa-free entry.