How Can You Use the China Visa-Free Transit Policy?

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?

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.

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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