Timeline

1994

Shenzhen becomes first mainland city to introduce 72-hour convenient-visa policy for foreigners via Hong Kong. Visa procedures are streamlined but not scrapped entirely.

2000

Convenient-visa trial in Shenzhen extended to nine cities in Guangdong province, with limit of stay increased to 144 hours.

January 2013

Beijing and Shanghai introduce 72-hour visa-free stay for citizens of 45 countries.

June

State Council approves launch of visa-free policy in Chengdu, provincial capital of Sichuan, but local tourism authority says it needs time to prepare.

August

Guangzhou introduces 72-hour visa-free policy. Visitors can visit anywhere within Guangdong province under the policy.

September

Chengdu introduces 72-hour visa-free policy.

October 16

State Council approves launch of visa-free policy in Chongqing.

November

Transit visitors from 45 countries will be able to stay in Chongqing for three days without a visa.