China's Transit Visas: A Clear Guide to Layover Rules (2025)

Planning a trip that includes a layover in China? You might be able to leave the airport and explore without needing to apply for a visa in advance. China offers convenient Transit Without Visa (TWOV) policies for travelers from many countries.

This guide will explain how the 24-hour and 144-hour TWOV policies work, who is eligible, and what you need to do to enjoy a visa-free stopover.

Important Disclaimer

Transit policies and their enforcement can be updated. This guide is based on information available as of June 2025. You must always confirm the specific requirements with your airline and the Chinese immigration authorities before you travel.

Part 1: Understanding Transit Without Visa (TWOV)

The most important thing to know is that for a short layover, you likely do not need to apply for a Transit (G) Visa beforehand. Instead, you will use one of the TWOV policies upon arrival.

There are two main types:

  • 24-Hour TWOV: Available to citizens of almost all countries.
  • 144-Hour TWOV: Available to citizens of 54 specific countries, including the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and most of the EU.

Part 2: The Golden Rule for All Transit Policies

To use any TWOV policy, you must be in transit to a third country or region.

This means your itinerary must look like this:

Country A → Mainland China → Country C

  • Correct Example: New York, USA → Shanghai, China → Tokyo, Japan
  • Incorrect Example: New York, USA → Shanghai, China → Los Angeles, USA (This is considered a round trip, not transit.)

Hong Kong and Macau are considered separate regions, so itineraries like USA → Beijing → Hong Kong are valid for transit.

Part 3: The 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit

This is the most flexible policy.

24-Hour TWOV Details

  • Who is Eligible? Citizens of nearly all countries.
  • Where is it Available? At most major international airports in China.
  • Key Requirement: You must hold a confirmed ticket for a connecting international flight departing within 24 hours.
  • Can I leave the airport? If you wish to leave the transit area to explore, you must apply for a "Temporary Entry Permit" at the immigration counter upon arrival. Approval is at the discretion of the immigration officer.

Part 4: The 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit (6 Days)

This popular policy allows for a much longer and more in-depth visit.

Eligibility Checklist:

144-Hour TWOV Requirements

  • 1. Are you a citizen of one of the 54 eligible countries?
    This list includes the United States, Canada, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and 25 Schengen Area countries, among others.
  • 2. Are you entering and exiting through an approved port?
    This policy applies to dozens of specific airports and ports in major regions like Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang, and Guangdong. Popular airports include Beijing (PEK & PKX), Shanghai (PVG & SHA), and Guangzhou (CAN).
  • 3. Do you have a confirmed ticket to a third country or region departing within 144 hours?
    You must present this ticket upon arrival. The 144-hour countdown begins at 00:01 on the day following your arrival.

How to Use the 144-Hour Policy:

  1. Inform Your Airline: When you check in for your flight to China, inform the airline staff that you plan to use the 144-hour TWOV.
  2. Fill Out an Arrival Card: On the plane or at the airport, fill out the "Arrival/Departure Card."
  3. Apply at the Correct Counter: Upon arrival in China, look for the dedicated "144-hour Transit" counter at immigration.
  4. Submit Your Documents: Present your passport, your arrival card, and your confirmed onward ticket to the immigration officer.
  5. Receive Your Permit: If approved, you will receive a temporary entry permit sticker in your passport, and you are free to enter the designated region for your stay.

Pro-Tip

Your permitted area of stay is usually restricted to the province or region you arrived in. For example, if you arrive in Shanghai, you can travel freely within Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang, but you cannot fly to Beijing. Always confirm your permitted area of activity upon arrival.

Conclusion

China's Transit Without Visa policies are an excellent way to turn a long layover into a mini-vacation. By ensuring your itinerary is valid and you have the correct documents, you can enjoy a hassle-free entry and a bonus adventure on your journey.