Visa-Free Entry to China via Haikou Meilan Airport: A Guide for Travelers
Are you planning a trip to Haikou, China? Good news! Haikou Meilan International Airport offers visa-free entry for travellers from 59 countries. This means you can explore the beautiful island of Hainan without the hassle of obtaining a visa. You can even come to Hainan without a visa and learn Mandarin in one of our Chinese courses. We also offer Mandarin courses for total beginners.
In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to know about visa-free entry to Haikou Meilan Airport. From the countries eligible for visa-free entry to the requirements and restrictions, we have got you covered. So, let’s dive in and start planning your visa-free adventure!
1. Introduction
Haikou Meilan International Airport, located in Haikou, the capital of Hainan province, is a major gateway to the tropical paradise of Hainan Island. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant culinary scene, Hainan has become a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. To boost tourism and facilitate travel, the Chinese government has implemented a visa-free policy for travellers visiting Haikou Meilan Airport from eligible countries.
2. Eligible Countries for Visa-Free Entry
Travellers from 59 countries can enjoy visa-free entry via Haikou Meilan Airport in China’s Hainan Province. These countries include but are not limited to:
Austria, France, Germany, Norway, Italy, Finland, Holland, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain,
Belgium, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia.
Russia, the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, Monaco, Belarus.
The United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.
South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar.
Australia, New Zealand.
The original official document you can find here.
3. Duration of Stay
Under the visa-free policy, travellers can stay in Hainan for a maximum of 30 days. This allows ample time to explore the island’s diverse attractions and immerse yourself in its unique culture. At the airport, you have to fill in a form. On this form, you must indicate that you are entering Hainan for tourist purposes. Visa-free entry is currently only possible for tourist purposes.
4. Entry Requirements
Haikou is a key city within the Hainan Free Trade Port, a major economic and trade hub in southern China. The visa-free policy is part of the government’s initiative to promote international trade and investment in the region. As a visitor to Hainan, you can also take advantage of the various incentives and benefits offered within the Free Trade Port, making it an attractive destination for business and leisure travellers alike.
To enjoy visa-free entry to Haikou Meilan Airport, travellers must meet certain requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Make sure to check your passport’s expiration date before planning your trip.
Proof of Onward Travel
Upon arrival, you will be required to present proof of onward travel. This can be in the form of a return ticket to your home country or a ticket to a third country.
Accommodation
It is advisable to have your accommodation arrangements confirmed before you arrived in Hainan. You may be asked to provide proof of accommodation during your stay.
Entry and Exit Points
Visa-free entry is only applicable if you enter and exit through Haikou Meilan International Airport. If you plan to enter or exit through other ports in China, a visa will be required.
5. Exploring Haikou and Hainan
Hainan Island has a wealth of attractions to offer visitors. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
Beaches and Resorts
Hainan is renowned for its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Yalong Bay, relax on the golden sands of Sanya Bay, or indulge in the world-class amenities offered by the many beachfront resorts.
Cultural Attractions
Immerse yourself in Hainan’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the historic sites and landmarks scattered across the island. Explore the ancient Haikou Old Town, discover the mystical charm of the Wugong Temple, enjoy hot springs, or admire the intricate architecture of the Five Officials Temple.
Gastronomy
Hainanese cuisine is a culinary delight that should not be missed. Indulge in mouthwatering delicacies such as Wenchang chicken, Hainanese-style seafood, and the famous Hainanese coconut rice. Don’t forget to sample the local tropical fruits, known for their exquisite flavours.
Outdoor Activities
Hainan’s natural landscapes provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Embark on a hiking adventure in the lush rainforests of Yanoda, explore the volcanic landscapes of Wuzhishan, or challenge yourself with water sports like surfing and kiteboarding.
6. Learning Chinese for a Smooth Experience
While we can see a big progress in the internationalization of Hainan English is still not widely spoken. Learning some basic Chinese phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience in Haikou and Hainan. The locals always appreciate simple greetings, thank you, and asking for directions. Consider enrolling in a basic Chinese language course with us.
Very popular with travellers is a 4-week stay in Hainan. Of these, 2 weeks are spent with us in Haikou to gain a basic understanding of Chinese. The students also participate in cultural events and make trips to the interior of the island.
For the last two weeks, the students travel around Hainan on their own and enjoy the richness of Hainan.
7. Tips for a Hassle-Free Visa-Free Trip
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visa-free trip to Hainan, consider the following tips:
Travel Insurance & Medical Aid
It is always advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. This will provide peace of mind in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
If you do need to see a doctor, Haikou has a public international clinic with a doctor from America and also English-speaking Chinese practitioners. A doctor’s visit costs between 13 and 50 RMB.
Currency Exchange
Before your trip, make sure to exchange some currency for Chinese Yuan (CNY) or prepare a credit. Major credit cards are widely accepted at ATMs in Haikou and Hainan, and having some cash on hand can be useful, especially in smaller establishments and local markets.
Alipay
Another useful option is to register with Alipay. Alipay has a special feature for foreigners called Tour Pass, which allows you to use Alipay without a Chinese bank card or account. You can use your currency to top up a prepaid card and pay with Alipay. Tour Pass has a limit of 10000 CNY and a validity of 90 days.
- Download the Alipay app – it’s available for Android and Apple devices.
- Sign up with your phone number
- Choose the Alipay International Version
- Select ‘Tour Pass’
- Enter the amount – this is the amount you’d initially like to load the app with – a kind of prepaid. !!!in case you do not spend all the money: it is not possible to get the money back!!!
- Add your bank card
- Enter your ID information if asked. An important thing to remember here is that you’ll need to enter your ID details in the same way that they’re registered at the bank.
- Complete the load money process.
- Once you’re all set up, you can make Alipay payments in China wherever it’s accepted. Simply scan or show your QR code to pay at the checkout.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Respect the local customs and traditions during your stay in Hainan. Familiarize yourself with basic Chinese etiquette, such as using both hands to accept gifts, removing your shoes when entering someone’s home, and avoiding sensitive topics in conversations.
8. Conclusion
Visa-free entry to Haikou and Hainan via the Meilan International Airport offers travelers from 59 countries a convenient way to explore the wonders of Hainan Island. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant culinary scene, Hainan is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Remember to check the eligibility criteria, entry requirements, and duration of stay before planning your trip. So pack your bags, get ready to experience the tropical paradise of Hainan, and create unforgettable memories.
