China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit, Explained (2026): Countries, Ports & Rules

The 240-hour (10-day) transit policy is China's visa-free route for travellers whose passports aren't on the 30-day list — and it's widely misunderstood. Here's how it actually works.

What it is

Citizens of 55 countries — including the United States, Mexico, and much of Europe — can enter China visa-free for up to 240 hours (10 days) when transiting onward to a third country or region.

The rule everyone misses: it's transit, not a round trip

You must have an onward ticket to a destination different from where you came from. Flying in from your home country and back home again does not qualify. Adding an onward leg — Hong Kong, Macau, or any third country — does. Hong Kong and Macau count as third destinations.

Where you can enter

Through one of 65 approved ports across 24 provinces — covering Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an, Hangzhou and other major hubs. Entry and exit must both be via approved ports.

30-day list vs 240-hour transit — which applies to you?

If your passport is on the 30-day unilateral list (most of Europe, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Korea, the Gulf, much of Latin America), use that — it's simpler and doesn't require onward travel. If it isn't (e.g. the US), the 240-hour transit route is your visa-free option. FirstChinaTrip's checker sorts this for your exact passport and trip.

Disclaimer

This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. China's visa and transit policies change frequently — always confirm your specific situation with the National Immigration Administration (nia.gov.cn) or your nearest Chinese embassy before booking.