Other Briefings
China Upgrades 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit to 10-Day Stay, Adds 21 Ports
China expands visa-free transit policy from December 17, 2024, allowing eligible foreign travelers to stay up to 240 hours (10 days). The update also adds 21 ports, bringing the total to 60 across 24 provinces.
China’s Visa-Free Policies: Latest Updates
In this aritcle, we look at all of the China visa-free policies that are currently in place and clarify who is eligible to benefit from them.
Hong Kong Public Holidays 2025
Hong Kong will observe 17 public holidays in 2025, including five long weekends for Lunar New Year, Ching Ming Festival, Easter, the Birthday of the Buddha, and Christmas.
China Expands Private Pension Scheme Nationwide Following Two-Year Pilot Program
After a two-year pilot program, China has officially expanded its private pension scheme nationwide. Starting December 15, 2024, workers nationwide can participate in this supplementary pension scheme.
China’s Workforce Dynamics and Regional Trends
Despite a declining working-age population, China’s workforce saw a 6.9 million job increase in 2023, driven by policies re-integrating older workers.
Annual Confirmation for China IIT Special Additional Deductions Starts on December 1
From December 1, 2024, the annual confirmation for Individual Income Tax (IIT) special additional deductions begins. Individuals, including expatriates in China, should check their eligibility for these deductions.
Integration of Foreigner’s Work Permit with Social Security Card: What You Need to Know
Effective December 1, 2024, foreign nationals entering China will no longer be required to obtain a physical Foreigner’s Work Permit. Instead, they can apply for an electronic social security card via a designated app.
China Expands Unilateral Visa-Free Policy to 9 Additional Countries Including Japan, Extends Stay to 30 Days
China has expanded its unilateral visa-free policy to include a total of 38 countries, accommodating more entry purposes and extending the stay duration to 30 days.
