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China’s 24-hour transit without visa: How To Qualify?

Ikky Ma February 24, 2024
24-hour-TWOV

Air passengers (from almost all countries) transiting in mainland China for no more than 24 hours before departing for a third country or region, do not require a visa. This is known as China’s 24-hour transit without visa (24-hour TWOV).

In this blog post, we will explore in details who and how to qualify for such 24-hour TWOV visa.

What are the eligibility requirements for China’s 24-hour TWOV?

Almost all countries offer 24-hour visa-free transit, but some countries have exceptions in certain airports.

Visas are required for passport holders of the following countries transiting in Xiamen airport or Urumqi airport:

  • Afghanistan
  • Azerbaijan
  • Iran
  • Iraq
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Malaysia
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Sri Lanka
  • Syria
  • Thailand
  • Turkey
  • Turkmenistan
  • Yemen

There is no 24-hour visa-free transit for Syrian citizens transiting through Guangzhou.

Can you tell me what the port restrictions are?

While a majority of international airports in China participate in the 24-hour TWOV, passengers transiting through the following airports will need a visa regardless of how long their layover is:

  • Fuzhou
  • Huangshan
  • Mudanjiang
  • Shenzhen
  • Urumqi
  • Yanji

Required Documents for a TWOV

  • A valid passport for at least 3 months after entry
  • An Air ticket with confirmed seat and date for onward travel
  • Obtained a visa for a third country or region (if necessary)

Is it possible to leave the airport during a layover?

Those who wish to leave the restricted transit area to claim luggage, take a connecting flight, or explore the city can apply for a 24-hour visa-free entry permit that shows the length of their permitted stay on their passport.

It is important to note that your application for a 24-hour visa-free transit may be declined if:

  • You lack any of the required documents listed above
  • Your route does not qualify
  • You have a history of overstaying in the country or visa refusals

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Ikky Ma

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