Transit Visa
China offers transit visa-free policies at select ports of entry, allowing eligible travelers to stay for limited periods without a visa while in transit to a third country.
Crucial Requirement
Transit visa-free only applies when traveling from Country A to Country B with a transit through China. You MUST have confirmed onward tickets to a third country/region. A round trip (Country A → China → Country A) does NOT qualify. Overstaying will result in fines, detention, and possible entry bans.
24-Hour Transit
Available at all international airports with international transit facilities. Eligible for most nationalities. You must remain in the airport transit area or the designated city area.
72-Hour Transit
Available at select cities including Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an, and others. Stay is limited to the administrative area of the port of entry city.
144-Hour Transit
Available in Beijing (Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei), Shanghai (Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang), and Guangdong Province. Most popular choice for transit travelers.
Key Requirements for All Transit Policies
- Valid Passport
Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay with blank visa pages.
- Onward Ticket to Third Country
You must have a confirmed connecting flight ticket to a third country/region departing within the allowed transit period. Round-trip tickets do not qualify.
- Eligible Nationality
Citizens of over 50 countries are eligible. Check your specific nationality with the Chinese embassy or consulate.
- Designated Ports Only
Entry and exit must be through designated ports. You cannot enter through one port and exit through a non-designated one.
What You Cannot Do on Transit Visa-Free
Travel Outside Designated Area
You must stay within the administrative boundaries of the permitted city or region.
Extend Your Stay
Transit visa-free periods cannot be extended. Overstaying will result in fines, detention, and possible entry bans.
Return to Your Origin Country
The transit must be to a THIRD country. Flights back to your departure country do not qualify.
Work or Study
Transit visa-free is for tourism and transit purposes only. Working or studying is not permitted.
Source: National Immigration Administration of China. Last updated: June 2026. Policies may change; always verify with official sources before travel.