China Visa Guide for Foreign Travelers
Everything you need to know about visa requirements, transit policies, and application processes for visiting China.
Visa Types for Visiting China
240-Hour Transit Without Visa (TWOV)
China offers a transit visa exemption for travelers from eligible countries who are passing through designated Chinese cities on their way to a third destination.
Pro Tip
The transit window starts from midnight the day after your arrival, not from your actual arrival time. This gives you more flexibility in planning your stay.
Eligible Countries
Citizens of over 50 countries including USA, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and more are eligible.
Designated Cities
Currently, multiple Chinese cities accept transit visa exemptions, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Xi'an, and more.
Read full TWOV guideFrequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for transit visa exemption?
Citizens of over 50 countries can use the transit visa exemption when traveling through designated Chinese airports and cities. You must have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country.
Can I use WeChat Pay or Alipay with a foreign phone number?
Yes! Both Alipay and WeChat Pay work with foreign phone numbers. You need to download the apps before arriving in China and verify your identity with your passport.
Do I need a VPN in China?
Yes, popular apps like Google, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter are blocked in China. We recommend installing a reliable VPN before arriving, as VPN websites are also blocked in China.
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Warning
For informational purposes only