The short answer is yes — and this is excellent news for travelers looking to experience one of China's most historically rich cities without the hassle of obtaining a full tourist visa. China's transit visa-free policy allows citizens of many countries to visit Xi'an for up to 144 hours (six days) without a visa, provided you meet certain conditions. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about using this policy to explore Xi'an's world-famous landmarks, from the legendary Terracotta Army to the vibrant Muslim Quarter.
China introduced its 144-hour visa-free transit policy to encourage tourism and make short visits more accessible for international travelers. Xi'an, served by Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY), is one of the major cities included in this program. Under this policy, eligible travelers from over 50 countries can enter and stay in Xi'an — and the broader Shaanxi Province — for up to six days without a visa, as long as they hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region.
This means you cannot use the transit visa-free policy to simply fly into Xi'an and then return to your country of origin. The key requirement is that your journey must be continuous: you must be traveling from Country A, through China (Xi'an), to Country B or a special administrative region like Hong Kong or Macau. For example, if you're flying from London to Tokyo with a stopover in Xi'an, you qualify. If you're flying from New York to Xi'an and then back to New York, you do not.
The 144-hour visa-free transit policy covers citizens of approximately 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, most European Union member states, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Brazil, Russia, and several others. The full list is periodically updated by China's National Immigration Administration, so we always recommend checking the latest official requirements before your trip. Citizens of countries not on this list will need to apply for a standard Chinese tourist visa (L visa) through their nearest Chinese embassy or consulate.
To take advantage of the visa-free transit in Xi'an, you'll need to present several documents at immigration upon arrival. First, you must have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity. Second, you need a confirmed airline ticket showing your onward travel to a third country or region — this cannot be a ticket back to your country of departure. Third, you may be asked to provide proof of accommodation in Xi'an, such as a hotel reservation, so it's wise to have this printed or saved on your phone. Finally, you'll need to fill out an arrival card, which is typically provided on your flight or at the immigration counter.
The immigration officer may also ask about your itinerary and the purpose of your visit, so being prepared with a rough plan is helpful. Having a travel insurance policy is not strictly required but is always recommended when traveling internationally.
With up to 144 hours at your disposal, you have more than enough time to experience Xi'an's greatest highlights. The Terracotta Army, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, is an absolute must-see. Located about 40 kilometers east of the city center, this vast underground army of life-sized clay warriors dates back to the third century BC and was built to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
You can also walk or cycle atop the beautifully preserved Xi'an City Wall, which encircles the old city center and offers wonderful panoramic views. The bustling Muslim Quarter is another essential experience, where you can sample local street food, browse traditional shops, and visit the Great Mosque, one of the largest and oldest mosques in China. Other notable attractions include the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Shaanxi History Museum, and the Huaqing Hot Springs near the Terracotta Army site.
For those interested in planning a structured itinerary, we offer a variety of curated Xi'an day tours that cover all the major sights efficiently, which is especially useful for transit visitors with limited time.
There are several critical restrictions to keep in mind. First, the 144-hour policy limits your stay to Shaanxi Province. You cannot travel to other Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu during your visa-free transit — doing so would be a violation of immigration rules and could result in fines, detention, or future visa denials. Second, the 144-hour clock starts at midnight on the day after your arrival, which effectively gives you a bit of extra time. Third, if your stay exceeds 144 hours, you must apply for an extension at the local Public Security Bureau before your time expires.
We strongly advise against cutting your timing close. Book your onward flight with a comfortable margin, and keep your departure documentation easily accessible. Overstaying, even by a few hours, can have serious consequences for future travel to China.
When you land at Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, follow signs for the 144-hour visa-free transit counter. The process is generally straightforward but can take 20 to 45 minutes during busy periods. Having all your documents organized in advance will speed things up considerably. The airport is located about 25 kilometers northwest of the city center and is connected by the Xi'an Metro Line 14, airport express buses, and taxis. A taxi to the city center typically costs around ¥120–150 (approximately $17–21 USD), while the metro is much cheaper at roughly ¥8–10.
Currency exchange is available at the airport, but rates are generally better in the city. Many shops and restaurants in Xi'an accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay, though carrying some cash in Chinese Yuan is always advisable for smaller vendors and street food stalls in areas like the Muslim Quarter.
--- This FAQ is part of our comprehensive Xi'an Travel Guide. For more information about visiting Xi'an, explore our Xi'an Tours or contact us directly. Last updated: May 2026