Transit Without Visa in China (2025)
Full Guide Including the New 240-Hour Policy
Important Disclaimer
This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa policies can change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official Chinese government sources or your nearest Chinese embassy/consulate before traveling. The eligibility checker provides estimates only and does not guarantee entry approval.
TWOV Eligibility Checker
If you're traveling through China on your way to a third country, you may not need a visa. Thanks to China's Transit Without Visa (TWOV) policies—including a brand-new 240-hour visa-free transit option—you can now explore major Chinese cities without the hassle of applying for a tourist visa.
This guide explains:
- The 24-hour, 72-hour, 144-hour, and 240-hour visa-free policies
- Who is eligible
- How to apply
- Which cities and airports are included
- What to do during your layover
Let's break it all down—clearly and simply.
What Is Transit Without Visa (TWOV)?
TWOV is China's visa-free policy for travelers in transit through China. You're eligible if:
Eligibility Criteria
- You're flying Country A → China → Country B
- You meet nationality and entry conditions
- You don't return to the country you came from
Example Routes
Valid transit route
Valid transit route
Not valid – same country
Eligible Countries
24-Hour TWOV
All countries are eligible. Available at most international airports, including:
- Beijing Capital & Daxing
- Shanghai Pudong
- Guangzhou Baiyun
- Chengdu Tianfu
- Xi'an Xianyang
72h / 144h TWOV
Applies to citizens from 53 countries including:
Europe:
Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom
Americas:
Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, United States
Oceania:
Australia, New Zealand
240-Hour TWOV (NEW in 2025)
Includes all of the above plus 🇧🇦 Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Allows entry/exit through 60 designated ports across 24 regions.
TWOV Requirements (All Durations)
To enter visa-free, you must:
Eligible Passport
Hold a passport from an eligible country
Confirmed Flight
Have a confirmed onward flight to a third country
Approved Ports
Enter and exit through approved ports only
Time Limit
Stay within the time limit
Documentation
Print your flight confirmation and hotel bookings
Step-by-Step: How to Use TWOV
Book a route Country A → China → Country B
Ensure your itinerary qualifies for TWOV before booking.
Enter China via an approved TWOV airport or port
Check the list of approved entry points for your transit duration.
At check-in, tell the airline you're using visa-free transit
Some airlines may require confirmation of your eligibility.
Upon arrival, go to the "TWOV / Visa-Free Transit" counter
Don't proceed to regular immigration; look for the special transit counter.
Get your temporary entry permit stamped
This will show your permitted stay duration and exit date.
Leave China within your allowed time (24/72/144/240 hours)
Overstaying may result in fines or future entry restrictions.
Top Cities & What to Do During Your Layover
| City | TWOV Options | Must-Do Experiences |
|---|---|---|
| 🏯 Beijing | 144h / 240h | Great Wall, Peking Duck, Forbidden City |
| 🏙 Shanghai | 144h / 240h | The Bund, skyline cruise, dumplings |
| 🕔 Guangzhou | 72h / 144h / 240h | Dim Sum, Canton Tower, Shamian Island |
| 🐼 Chengdu | 144h / 240h | Panda Research Base, Sichuan hotpot, tea houses |
| 🏺 Xi'an | 144h / 240h | Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter, city walls |
🎎Cultural Tip: In Chengdu, locals relax in tea gardens for hours — join them for a slow sip and cultural immersion.
Real-Life Examples (Am I Eligible?)
Valid Example 1
Flight: Canada → Beijing → Thailand
Stay: 8 days
Policy:✅ 240-hour TWOV applies
Valid Example 2
Flight: UK → Shanghai → Japan
Stay: 4 days
Policy:✅ 144-hour TWOV applies
Invalid Example
Flight: Australia → Guangzhou → Australia
Policy:❌ Not eligible (same country)
240-Hour TWOV Entry Ports
Some of the 60+ approved ports include:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply in advance for TWOV?
No, you apply upon arrival at the airport.
Can I leave the airport during a layover?
Yes — if your stay qualifies and you receive a temporary entry permit.
What happens if I overstay my TWOV?
You may face fines, detention, or entry bans.
Can I enter in one city and leave from another?
Yes — for 144h/240h policies, if both cities are in the same region (e.g., Shanghai → Hangzhou).
Discover the Unexpected During Your Transit
From quirky capsule pods to luxury themed suites — explore China's most unique hotel stays and elevate your layover experience.
