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.