Correction: Xi'an Xianyang does NOT process classic visa-on-arrival — instead use China's 240-hour visa-free transit or visa-free entry

What Xi'an actually offers

XIY does not issue landing/visa-on-arrival visas to general travelers. But under China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy (expanded December 2024, covering 55 countries, 24 provinces and 60 ports including Shaanxi), eligible transit travelers can stay up to 10 days without a visa when transiting to a third country/region — a very practical option for a Xi'an stopover.

30-day visa-free entry

Separately, China grants 30-day visa-free entry to a substantial list of ordinary passport holders (many European countries, Australia, New Zealand, wide parts of Asia, etc.), with the exact list changing and expanding through 2025–26. Passport holders from these countries enter at Xi'an with no visa at all.

Honest guidance

If you do need a visa, apply in advance at a Chinese embassy/consulate or through an eVisa/visa service — there is no reliable walk-up visa desk. Always verify your eligibility against the National Immigration Administration (NIA) current list before travel, because country lists and durations change frequently. For transit, a return/onward ticket to a third country applies.

Bottom line

• No traditional visa-on-arrival at Xi'an Xianyang (XIY) — don't plan on one.
• 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit applies at XIY for eligible countries when transiting to a third country/region.
• 30-day visa-free entry is available at Xi'an for a growing list of ordinary-passport countries (check the NIA list for your passport).
• If you need a visa, get it before departure through a Chinese embassy/consulate or visa service — no walk-up desk.
• Always verify your status with the National Immigration Administration (NIA) before travel — lists and durations change.

Last updated: September 2026. Xi'an travel.

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