240-hour transit · United States

Can US citizens use China's 240-hour transit?

Short answer: often yes, when you enter through a listed port, stay no more than 240 hours, and depart to a different third country or region.

The three conditions

  • Enter China at a listed transit port.
  • Stay within the 240-hour window.
  • Depart to a different third country or region, not back to the origin country.

FAQ

  • Do I need a visa? Not for a qualifying transit route, but normal visa rules apply outside the transit exemption.
  • Who decides at check-in? Your airline reviews documents before boarding.
  • Can I visit Shanghai and Hangzhou? Regional movement rules can change; verify the current port-region scope before travel.