Transit through China without a visa — up to 6 days, 10 major cities.
Here's everything you need to know.
Policy Overview
China's 144-hour transit visa exemption allows passport holders from many countries to enter China for up to 6 days (144 hours) without a visa, as long as you are in transit to a third country.
You can freely explore the designated city (or region) during this window — visit attractions, dine, shop, and experience China authentically without the usual visa paperwork.
144
Hours maximum stay
10+
Eligible port cities
50+
Qualifying nationalities
3rd
Country onward ticket required
Passport from an eligible country (check official list)
Valid onward ticket to a third country
Arriving and departing through the same designated port
No existing Chinese visa or residence permit
Must stay within the designated city/region boundary
Cannot extend stay beyond 144 hours
These cities have dedicated 144-hour visa-free zones. Each has its own boundary rules.
Shanghai
Most popular
HotBeijing
History & culture
Guangzhou
Gateway to south
HotChengdu
Pandas & spice
Xi'an
Ancient capital
Hangzhou
West Lake + tech
Kunming
Spring city
Wuhan
Central hub
Shenyang
Northeast gateway
Guilin
Karst landscapes
* Always verify current eligibility with official Chinese immigration authorities before travel.
First-time China visitors
Perfect way to get a taste of China without full visa application.
Stopover travelers
Your flight has a long layover in a Chinese city? Make the most of it.
Food & culture explorers
Three to six days is enough to experience authentic local cuisine and sights.
Business travelers
Quick city visit between international meetings without visa hassle.
Tight schedule travelers
Only have 2–3 days? 144h works perfectly.
NOT for long trips
If you want 7+ days or multiple cities outside the zone, you need a real visa.
Ready-to-use trip plans for visa-free transit travelers.
Beijing
Discover China's ancient wonders on this 7-day Heritage Grand Tour. Explore Beijing's imperial palaces and the Great Wall, then journey to Xi'an for the Terracotta Warriors. Book your mid-range cultural adventure!
Explore China's stunning natural landscapes on a 7-day budget adventure! Discover Guilin's karst mountains, cruise the Li River, hike Longji Terraces, and experience authentic local culture.
Book your onward ticket first
Immigration will ask to see proof of your onward journey. Have your booking confirmation ready.
Arrive with cash or set up Alipay before landing
China is cashless — WeChat Pay and Alipay are essential. Set up your account before you arrive.
Download offline maps
Google Maps doesn't work in China. Download Baidu Maps or Apple Maps offline tiles.
Get a SIM or pocket WiFi
Your home SIM won't work for most apps. A local SIM or VPN is crucial.
Stay within the zone
Each city's 144h zone has boundaries. Leaving the zone (e.g. to another province) voids your exemption.
* Tick off as you prepare. This checklist is not saved.
Pick a city, choose an itinerary, and start packing. China's easier to visit than you think.