Which ports does the 240-hour visa-free transit policy cover?

A: It applies to 60 ports, including Shanghai's Pudong and Hongqiao airports, Shanghai Port (Passenger), Nanjing Lukou International Airport and Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport.

Where should I go for border inspection procedures when arriving at the port of Shanghai?

A: The Shanghai Border Inspection Authority has set up special channels for the 240-hour visa-free transit at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Hongqiao International Airport, and Shanghai Port (Passenger). You can follow the signs to the special channels.

How is the duration of the 240-hour visa-free transit calculated?

A: The border inspection station will issue you a temporary entry permit, and the visa-free transit is calculated from 12 am of the next day upon arrival. You can make cross-province travels within the allowed areas for visa-free transit travelers in 24 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) for up to 240 hours.

If I am a citizen of Australia and plan to book a Sydney-Shanghai-Melbourne ticket, will I be eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit?

A: The policy applies to passengers from certain countries who have a connecting ticket to a third country or region with a confirmed seat and date within 240 hours. To ensure eligibility, you are recommended to book an onward ticket from Shanghai to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or other cities out of China and Australia, and then depart for Melbourne.

If I have a valid Chinese visa in my passport and am eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit, but I would like to save the visa for my next trip to China, will the border inspection station use my Chinese visa for entry this time?

A: No. For passengers who are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit and hold a valid Chinese visa, the border inspection station will give priority to the 240-hour visa-free transit. However, if you require to stay in China for more than 240 hours, the border inspection station will handle the formalities with your Chinese visa according to your request.

What should I do if I need to leave the allowed areas for visa-free transit travelers or cannot depart within 240 hours due to special circumstances?

A: If you are under the 240-hour visa-free transit, you are required to stay within the allowed areas for visa-free transit travelers in the 24 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities), and depart within the permitted duration.

Will stay at a Shanghai hotel be a problem under the transit policy?

A: No. The border inspection authority will issue a temporary entry permit sticker, which will be stamped in your passport. The permit will indicate your arrival port, arrival time, permitted duration and region of stay. With this permit, you can check into a hotel or register for your stay.