For visitors planning an international trip with a stopover in China, the visa-free transit policy can facilitate your entry into China for a short stay.
In this guide, I'll guide you through everything about China's visa-free transit policy & things to consider when having a layover in China. Read on!
What Are the Differences between a Visa-Free Transit & a Tourist Visa?
Visa-Free Transit | Tourist Visa |
For transit passengers only | For sightseeing or other travel needs |
No need to apply or pay for a visa | You'll need to apply and pay for your visa. |
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy | Stay longer (e.g., 30 days) |
Only valid if you have an onward ticket to a third country. | No need for a ticket to another country |
What's the China Visa-Free Transit Policy about?
Currently, China allows citizens of 55 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia, to enter China visa-free for transit to a third country or region.
U.S. travelers can use this policy at 65 designated entry and exit ports across 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, and stay in the approved areas for up to 10 days.
To qualify, you must have a valid U.S. passport and confirmed onward tickets with departure dates.
During your stay, you can engage in tourism, business visits, or family visits within the permitted areas. Activities such as working, studying, or reporting news still require a proper visa or prior approval.
Visit China during your visa-free transit stay
What U.S. travelers should pay attention to?
Make sure your itinerary must follow:
- Country A - China - Country B (including Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan, which count as separate regions of China)
Length of visa-free stay during your transit in China:
- no more than 10 days
Pack things you need:
- a valid U.S. passport
- a confirmed onward ticket to a third country
- sometimes proof of accommodation
Check out updated info via the official National Immigration Administration website.
How to Apply for China’s 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?
Shanghai Pudong Airport
Step 1: Arrive with a qualifying itinerary
- Travel route must be U.S. → China → third country/region
- Onward ticket must be confirmed and within the visa-free period
Step 2: Find the visa-free transit counter
- Follow airport signs for “Visa-Free Transit”, “Temporary Entry”, or “240-Hour Transit”
Step 3: Apply on arrival
- Present:
- Valid U.S. passport
- Onward ticket to a third destination
- Arrival/temporary entry form
- Hotel booking or local address (if requested)
No application fee
Step 4: Immigration review
- Officer confirms:
- Eligibility
- Length of stay
- Permitted travel area
Step 5: Receive your entry stamp
- Stamp shows visa-free type and final exit date
- Check the date carefully
Step 6: Enter China
- Clear immigration and customs
- Stay within the approved city or region
Step 7: Depart on time
- Exit before your visa-free stay expires
How to Get around Cities during Your Transit in China?
Use DiDi for ride-hailing in China.
Transport Type | Details | Tips for U.S. Travelers |
|---|---|---|
Metro / Subway | Fast, cheap, covers most major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen) | Buy single-ride tickets or transport card; look for English signs |
Taxi / Ride-Hailing | Taxis are widely available; DiDi app works like Uber | Use DiDi for English support; have passport handy; cash or app payment |
City Buses | Very cheap, but routes can be confusing | Best for locals; metro is easier for tourists |
Connects nearby cities (e.g., Shanghai → Hangzhou) | Book tickets online or at stations; check travel time vs. transit duration | |
Bicycles / E-Scooters | Bike-sharing apps (Mobike, HelloBike) | Apps may require phone with QR payment; wear a helmet for safety |
How Can You Stay Connected and Pay in China During Your Transit?
U.S. travelers can buy a China SIM card or China eSIM before you go. Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, and some allow limited use with foreign cards.
Free Wi-Fi is available in airports, hotels, and cafes, but some networks may require a Chinese phone number. Using a VPN can help access apps or websites that are restricted in China.
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[10% OFF] Where to Stay in China?
China Entry Requirements & Things to Prepare
- 24/240 China Visa-Free Transit: US citizens can stay up to 240 hours in 54 Chinese cities without a China visa when transiting.
- China Plug & Power: China plug uses Type A/C/F (220V). Bring a Type A/C adapter (US plugs sometimes work, but bring a universal adapter for safety).
- Internet Access in China: You need a China VPN for Google/Ins/YT/X, etc. But you can also use a China eSIM with built-in access to overseas apps!
Getting Around & Top Destinations in China
- China Metro Guides: Shanghai Metro | Beijing Metro | Guangzhou Metro | HK Metro
- China Airport Guides: Shanghai Airport | Beijing Airport | Guangzhou Airport | HK Airport Express
- China City Maps: Beijing Map | Guangzhou Map | Shanghai Map | HK Map
- Top Destinations in China: Shanghai Attractions (Disneyland, Bund) | Beijing Attractions (Forbidden City, Great Wall) | HK Attractions (HK Disneyland)
Must-Have Apps in China
- China Map App: I love to use Gaode Map (English supported) or Baidu Map (limited English) for real-time transit and traffic. Or you can still use Google Maps in China, but some data may be outdated.
- China Transport App: Use DiDi (China's Uber) for English address input and cashless payment. I recommend using the DiDi mini-program in Alipay for more convenience.
- China Payment App: Use Alipay or WeChat Pay (link foreign cards before arrival).
- China Booking App: Trip.com for high-speed trains (China HSR Guide), China hotels/flights. Use Trip.com promo codes for USA users.
FAQs about China Visa-Free Transit
Who is eligible for China’s visa-free transit?
U.S. passport holders can use it when transiting to a third country within the allowed time.How long can I stay during my layover in China?
Depending on the city, stays can be 72 hours, 144 hours (6 days), or 240 hours (10 days).Do I need to apply for a China visa in advance?
No. You apply on arrival at the airport through the visa-free transit counter.Can I leave the city during my transit in China?
Yes, but only within the approved city or region. Leaving the area can cause fines or future restrictions.What documents do I need for a China visa-free transit?
A valid U.S. passport, onward ticket to a third country, completed arrival form, and sometimes a hotel booking.