China Visa-Free Transit Guide for Foreigners
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China Visa-Free Transit Guide
China offers visa-free transit policies for citizens of 53 countries passing through designated cities. This guide explains who qualifies, which cities are included, and how to use the policy at the airport.
Who qualifies
Citizens of 53 countries — including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations — are eligible. You must be transiting to a third country (not the country you arrived from).
72-hour vs 144-hour transit
- 72-hour transit: available in cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing.
- 144-hour transit: available in Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and the Pearl River Delta region.
How to use it
- Book an onward ticket to a third country within the allowed time window.
- Arrive at a designated port of entry.
- Present your passport and onward ticket at immigration.
- The officer stamps your passport with the transit allowance.
Important notes
- The onward destination must be a different country from your origin.
- You must stay within the permitted region.
- Always verify the latest policy before booking, as rules and eligible cities change.
Verify the current policy on the official National Immigration Administration website before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transit through China without a visa?
Yes. Citizens of 53 eligible countries can use 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free transit through designated Chinese cities, provided they have an onward ticket to a third country.
What is the difference between 72-hour and 144-hour transit?
The 72-hour policy applies to more cities, while the 144-hour policy is available in major hubs such as Beijing, Shanghai, and the Yangtze River Delta region, giving you up to six days.
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