China Transit Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
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CN
transit visa

China Transit Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

Transiting through China offers a unique opportunity to explore major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu without a full tourist visa. Depending on your nationality and the length of your layover, you may qualify for the 24, 72, or 144-hour visa-free transit policy. This system allows travellers from over 50 countries to enter China for a limited period provided they have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country. For those who do not meet the criteria for visa-free entry, or for stays exceeding the short-term limits, a 'G' Category Transit Visa is required. This must be obtained through a Chinese Embassy or Visa Application Centre before your departure. Understanding the specific requirements for your route is essential, as the 'third country' rule is strictly enforced—your departure point and destination must be different countries or regions (Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan are considered third regions for transit purposes). Please note that visa policies are subject to change. Always verify the latest requirements with the official Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your jurisdiction before finalising your travel plans.

Key highlights

  • 72 and 144-hour visa-free transit options available for eligible nationalities.
  • The 'G' Visa is required for longer transits or non-exempt travellers.
  • Transit without visa (TWOV) is applicable at major hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
  • Requires a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region.
  • Eligible travellers may leave the airport and explore the city during the stay.
  • Specific ports of entry must be used for visa-free transit eligibility.
  • Processing for the G Visa typically takes 4-5 working days at an embassy.

Processing time

4-5 working days for G Visa

Visa-free transit permits are issued on arrival. G Visas applied for at an embassy usually offer an express service for an additional fee.

Rush option available

Estimated cost

$50 - $200

  • Consular Fee (varies by nationality)$30 - $140+
  • Service Center Processing Fee$20 - $60

Requirements

  • Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages.
  • Confirmed onward ticket to a third country (not the country of origin).
  • Nationality must be on the approved list for 72/144-hour visa-free transit.
  • Maximum stay duration depends on the specific port of entry (24, 72, or 144 hours).
  • A valid visa for your final destination country, if required.
  • No prior record of visa violations or illegal entry into China.
  • Arrival and departure must be from designated ports of entry.
  • Travel must be a continuous journey (Country A -> China -> Country C).
  • Mandatory registration with local police (usually handled by your hotel).

Documents you'll need

  • Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • Completed China Visa Application Form (COVA)
  • One recent colour passport photo (white background)
  • Confirmed onward flight tickets to a third country
  • Valid visa for the final destination country (if applicable)
  • Proof of hotel reservation/accommodation in China
  • Previous Chinese visas (if any)

How to apply, step by step

  1. 1

    Determine Eligibility

    Check your eligibility for the 24, 72, or 144-hour visa-free transit based on your nationality and transit port.

  2. 2

    Complete Application Form

    If not eligible for visa-free transit, complete the online COVA application form for a G Visa and book an appointment.

  3. 3

    Verify Flight Route

    Ensure your flights are booked as A to B to C; transit does not apply if you are flying A to B to A.

  4. 4

    Submit Documents

    Attend the Visa Service Centre or Embassy to submit documents and provide biometric data if required.

  5. 5

    Pay Fees

    Pay the consular and service fees at the time of submission or collection, depending on the centre's policy.

  6. 6

    Collect Visa or Permit

    Collect your passport with the G Visa, or if using visa-free transit, proceed to the '144-hour' desk upon arrival in China.

Tips to avoid refusal

  • Ensure Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan are treated as 'third regions' for the purpose of your transit route.
  • Double-check that your layover time does not exceed the allowed hours from 00:00 the day after arrival.
  • Print all flight confirmations and hotel bookings; digital copies are not always accepted at immigration.
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
  • Informing your airline at check-in that you intend to use the visa-free transit policy can prevent boarding issues.
  • Remember that you cannot leave the designated transit area (city or province) without a standard visa.

Frequently asked questions

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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.

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