China 240-Hour Transit Visa-Free — Guide 2026
Transit visa-free · no visa in advance · stay limited to designated cities
Quick answer: Eligible transit passengers may use China's 240-hour (10-day) transit visa-free arrangement without a visa in advance, but must hold an onward ticket to a third country/region and stay within designated cities.
What is the 240-hour transit visa-free arrangement?
A transit visa-free arrangement allowing eligible transit passengers to stay up to 240 hours (10 days) in designated cities without a visa in advance, subject to conditions.
Which nationalities are eligible?
Eligible countries include the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, and many European and Asian countries. The exact list is subject to the latest published rules of Chinese missions abroad.
What are the conditions?
- Valid passport and onward ticket to a third country/region.
- Stay within designated cities.
- Eligible ports of entry and exit.
Eligibility is subject to the latest policy and on-site determination at the port.
How is the 240 hours calculated?
Counted continuously from 00:00 the day after entry, up to 240 hours; you must leave or proceed to a third country/region within that window.
Which cities can I enter from?
Eligible ports include major international airports and some land ports; the list of allowed stay cities is subject to the official list, not any city nationwide.
FAQ
A: No visa in advance is needed, but you must hold an onward ticket to a third country/region and stay in allowed cities.
A: They apply in different scenarios: transit visa-free for specific transit, 10-year visa is a pre-arranged multiple-entry formal visa.
A: The policy applies to eligible nationals meeting nationality and itinerary conditions, including children, subject to official rules.
A: Stay must be within 240 hours to leave or go to a third country; itinerary changes may affect eligibility. Allow ample connection time and watch official requirements.
Disclaimer: This page is for visa consulting and document preparation reference only. It is not legal advice, does not represent any embassy, consulate, or visa authority, and does not guarantee any visa outcome. Visa policies and document requirements may change at any time; all information is subject to the latest published rules of the relevant authorities and COVA (consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA).
Last reviewed: 2026-09-24
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