🔥Latest China Visa Free Transit Rules 2025
Trending China Transit Cities
24-Hour Visa-Free Transit: most cities.
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit: Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Qinhuangdao, Dalian, Shenyang, Xiamen, Qingdao, Wuhan, Chengdu, Kunming, Xi'an, Chongqing, Guangdong, Shanxi, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hainan, Guizhou Province
24-hour Visa-free Transit China
China offers a convenient visa-free transit policy for travelers from various countries. Almost all foreign travelers passing through China to a third destination by plane, ship, or train are allowed a visa-free stay of up to 24 hours. So, if you're transiting through China to a third destination and your stay is less than 24 hours without leaving the port of entry, you typically don't need a visa.
However, if you need to leave the port, you'll require a temporary entry permit. For travelers from 54 countries, there's an extended 240-hour visa-free transit policy applicable at 60 ports across 24 provinces in China. These countries include Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, and many more.
Specific policies may change. For the latest guidelines, please visit the official website of the Exit-Entry Administration.
59 Countries Eligible for 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit
Area | Countries |
30 countries in Europe | Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania |
15 other countries in Europe | Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, Monaco, Belarus |
6 countries in the Americas | United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile |
2 countries in Oceania | Australia, New Zealand |
6 countries in Asia | South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar |
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Compare 24 V.S. 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit in China
Criteria | 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit | 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit |
Travel Limitations | Limited to the transit area | Limited to 24 provinces |
Eligible Nationalities | Almost all nationalities | 54 countries |
Means of Transport | Plane, ship, or train | By air, ship, or train |
Arrival and Departure Place | By different ports | Different ports |
Time Calculation | Calculated from the time of arrival in China | Calculated from 00:00 the next day of arrival |
Ports of Entry | Most Chinese cities | Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Qinhuangdao, Dalian, Shenyang, Xiamen, Qingdao, Wuhan, Chengdu, Kunming, Xi'an, Chongqing, Guangdong, Shanxi, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hainan, Guizhou Province |
*All information is from Chinese Visa Application Service Center which updated the newest change on June. 2025. Please check here if want to explore more detail.
How to Apply 240 Hour Visa-Free Transit in China
Documents Required for China Visa-Free Transit
【Document for 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit】
- A valid passport from one of the 54 eligible countries that is more than three months from the arrival date.
- An interline ticket (connecting ticket) with the confirmed departure date and seat number leaving for a third country or region within 240 hours.
- The landing card for foreigners in transit that is filled out upon arrival in China.
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Process
Applying at the Arrival Port | |
Gather Required Documents | Ensure all necessary documents are prepared. |
Notify Carrier | Inform the carrier upon boarding of the intent to use the 240-hour visa-free transit. |
Complete Arrival and Departure Cards | Fill out arrival and departure cards provided during the flight. |
Apply for Stay Permit | Submit all required documents at the designated counter for 240-hour visa-free transit upon arrival at the port. |
Claim Luggage and Clear Customs | Collect luggage and go through customs. |
Applying Online (Shanghai Only) | |
Register on Official Website | Visit the official website, register or log in, and create an account. |
Complete Application Form | Fill out the application form with personal information, accommodation details, contact information, and arrival/departure dates. Submit for a QR code. |
Visit 240-Hour Visa-Free Area | Upon arrival in Shanghai, go to the 240-hour visa-free area, scan passport or QR code, and print Arrival Card completed online. |
Submit Application | Present application, passport, and connecting tickets for examination and approval. Obtain permit after approval. |
【Valid Route】
Passengers traveling on a single return flight, such as Hong Kong to Shanghai and back to Hong Kong, are not subject to transit visa regulations if the destination and place of departure differ. For example:
- USA > Shanghai > Taiwan: Eligible for applying for a 240-hour transit visa in Shanghai.
- USA > Singapore > Shanghai > USA: Eligible for applying for a 240-hour transit visa in Shanghai.
- USA > Shanghai > USA: NOT eligible for applying for a 240-hour transit visa in Shanghai.
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit 60 Ports
Province/Region | Eligible Port | Permitted Stay Areas |
Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region | Beijing Capital International Airport | Beijing Municipality, Tianjin Municipality, Hebei Province |
Beijing Daxing International Airport | ||
Tianjin Binhai International Airport | ||
Tianjin Port (Passenger) | ||
Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport | ||
Qinhuangdao Port | ||
Liaoning | Shenyang Taoxian International Airport | Liaoning Province |
Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport | ||
Dalian Port (Passenger) | ||
Shanghai Region | Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport | Shanghai Municipality |
Shanghai Pudong International Airport | ||
Shanghai Port (Passenger) | ||
Jiangsu | Nanjing Lukou International Airport | Jiangsu Province |
Su'nan Shoufang International Airport | ||
Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport | ||
Lianyuangang Port (Passen | ||
Zhejiang | Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport | Zhejiang Province |
Ningbo Lishe International Airport | ||
Wenzhou Longwan International Airport | ||
Yiwu Airport | ||
Wenzhou Port (Passenger) | ||
Zhoushan Port (Pa | ||
Anhui | Hefei Xinqiao International Airport | Anhui Province |
Huangshan Tunxi International Airport | ||
Fujian | Fuzhou Changle International Airport | Fujian Province |
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport | ||
Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport | ||
Wuyishan Airport | ||
Xiamen Port (Passenger) | ||
Shandong | Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport | Shanding Province |
Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport | ||
Yantai Penglai International Airport | ||
Weihai Dashuipo International Airport | ||
Qingdao Port (Passenger) | ||
Henan | Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport | Henan Province |
Hubei | Wuhan Tianhe International Airport | Hubei Province |
Hunan | Changsha Huanghua International Airport | Hunan Province |
Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport | ||
Guangdong | Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport | Guangdong Province (Exits available at all open ports across the province) |
Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport | ||
Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport | ||
Nansha Port (Passenger) | ||
Shekou Port (Passenger) | ||
Hainan | Haikou Meilan International Airport | Hainan Province |
Sanya Phoenix International Airport | ||
Chongqing Municipality | Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport | Chongqing Municipality |
Guizhou | Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport | Guizhou Province |
Shaanxi | Xi'an Xianyang International International Airport | Shaanxi Province |
Shanxi | Taiyuan Wusu International Airport | Taiyuan City and Datong City |
Heilongjiang | Harbin Taiping International Airport | Harbin City |
Jiangxi | Nanchang Changbei International Airport | Nanchang City and Jingdezhen City |
Guangxi | Nanjing Wuxu International Airport | A total of 12 cities: Nanning, Liuzhou, Guilin, Wuzhou, Beihai, Fangchenggang, Qinzhou, Guigang, Yulin, Hezhou, Hechi, and Laibin |
Guilin Liangjiang International Airport | ||
Beihai Fucheng Airport | ||
Beihai Port (Passenger) | ||
Sichuan | Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport | A total of 11 cities: Chengdu, Zigong, Luzhou, Deyang, Suining, Neijiang, Leshan, Yibin, Ya'an, Meishan, and Ziyang |
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport | ||
Yunnan | Kunming Changshui International Airport | A total of 9 cities and autonomous prefectures: Kunming, Yuxi, Chuxiong, Honghe, Wenshan, Pu'er, Xishuangbanna, Dali, and Lijiang |
Lijiang Sanyi International Airport | ||
Mohan Railway Port (Passenger) |
*All information is from Chinese Visa Application Service Center, Please check here if want to explore more detail.
Shanghai Express: Free Shanghai Layover Tour
Specific details may change. Please refer to the Trip.com official website for the most accurate information.
What is Shanghai Express Free Layover Tour?
Shanghai Express is a free half-day layover tour designed to allow international travelers to explore the charm of Shanghai during their layovers or waiting times. Throughout the 5-6 hours layover tour, we provide transportation, guides, and internet services - all FREE of charge. Travelers will have the opportunity to visit the Bund, Yu Garden and other famous attractions in Shanghai, and to experience the city's history, culture, and cuisine.
What Free Service & Benefits You Can Get?
As proud sponsors, Trip.com Group is delighted to provide this shanghai layover tour for free. Don't worry about transportation, tickets, or internet access - we've got these covered so you can just focus on enjoying your time in Shanghai. Here are what we offer for free:
Benefits | Description |
Free Tour Guide | Experienced bilingual guides accompany participants, providing insightful commentary during the tour. |
Free Transportation | Hassle-free transportation is provided to and from the airport and between attractions. |
Free eSIM Card | Participants receive a complimentary eSIM card, ensuring access to mobile data throughout their exploration. |
Free Attraction Tickets | Entrance tickets to top attractions like Yu Garden, The Bund, and the Huangpu River night tour are included. |
How to Join Shanghai Free Layover Tour
【Who Can Join】
Currently, Shanghai Pudong International Airport allows visa-free entry for international travelers from certain countries and regions for up to 240 hours. For travelers from other countries and regions, if your country has signed a reciprocal visa waiver agreement with China or if you hold a 24-hour temporary entry permit issued by the airport border inspection, you're more than welcome to join us on this exciting adventure! Passengers eligible for the Shanghai Express must have a layover of at least 8 hours at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
【How to Join】
Procedure | Details |
Check Your Schedule | Choose a tour route based on your schedule and interests. |
Meeting Point | Upon arrival at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, head to the designated meeting point for registration. |
Begin Your Hassle-free Tour | After registration, professional guides will pick you up to start your tour. |
【Meeting Point】
Please head to the Trip.com Group currency exchange counter on Island A in the 3F Departure Hall of Terminal 2 at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport (near Gate 21).
If you cannot locate the counter, please inquire with airport staff at the following address: 浦东机场T2航站楼3楼A岛（近出发层21号门）携程集团外币兑换柜台
Our guide will be available at the counter one hour before the start of the tour to assist with the registration process.
Meeting Point
Shanghai Free Layover Tour Routes
Shanghai Free Layover Tour | Travel Period | Travel Routes |
Shanghai Highlights City Tour | 9:00-14:00 | Shanghai Pudong Airport-Yu Garden-The Bund-Shanghai Pudong Airport |
Strolling Under the Trees Citywalk Tour | 16:00-22:00 | Shanghai Pudong Airport- Wukang Road- Yu Garden-The Bund-Shanghai Pudong Airport |
Huangpu River Cruise Sightseeing Night Tour | 18:00-23:00 | Shanghai Pudong Airport-Huangpu River-Yu Garden-Shanghai Pudong Airport |
Top Attractions to Visit During Free Layover Tour
- The Bund 🌆 Enjoy a relaxing walk along The Bund, a famous waterfront area in Shanghai. Marvel at the beautiful skyline and historic buildings that blend Western and Chinese styles.
- Yu Garden 🏯 Experience the tranquility of Yu Garden, a traditional Chinese garden 🌳. Explore classical pavilions, rockeries, and ponds in this serene oasis away from the bustling city streets.
- Huangpu River Cruise 🚢 Hop on a cruise along the Huangpu River and witness Shanghai's vibrant nightlife 🌃. Admire iconic landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Shanghai World Financial Center as they light up the night sky. Get a unique view of Shanghai's stunning architecture from the river.
Beijing Express: Free Beijing Layover Tour
Specific details may change. Please refer to the Trip.com official website for the most accurate information.
It is similar to Shanghai Layover tour for participating requirements. While the route and meeting point may be different by following below:
【Meeting Point】
Please head to T3C International Arrivals exit on the 2nd floor (next to the Manner coffee shop) of the Beijing Capital International Airport
If you cannot locate the counter, please inquire with airport staff at the following address: T3C二层国际到达出口manner咖啡店
Our guide will be available at the counter one hour before the tour.
【Tour Routes】
FAQs about China Visa Free Transit
Do I need a visa for transit through China?
You may not need a visa to transit through China if you stay for less than 24 hours and do not leave the airport, but you might be eligible for longer visa-free transit (up to 144 or 240 hours) depending on your nationality and which city you are transiting through. Requirements for visa-free transit include a valid passport and a ticket to a third country or region.Is 240 hours visa-free transit in China?
The stay duration for foreign nationals eligible for visa-free transit has been extended from the previous 72 hours and 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days). Additionally, 21 ports of entry and exit have been added for visa-free transit individuals, further expanding the allowed areas for visa-free transit travelers.Can I transit China with a connecting flight?
No, it is not necessary for the arrival and departure flights to be with the same airline. However, travelers must have a confirmed departure flight to a different (third) destination before arriving in China.How to apply 144 hour visa-free transit in China?
To apply for China's 144-hour visa-free transit, you must be a citizen of an eligible country, have a valid passport and an onward ticket to a third country within 144 hours. Upon arrival at a designated port, you will need to complete an arrival card and submit your documents to immigration to receive the transit permit. The time period begins at midnight on the day you enter.