240-hour transit

Shanghai 240-hour visa-free transit guide

Best default city for first-time transit travelers because airport access, hotels, rail links, and English service coverage are comparatively strong.

Policy data checked 2026-07-01

Policy noteChina entry rules can change. This page is based on official sources checked on 2026-07-01; travelers should verify the current rule with the relevant airline, port, embassy, or official immigration source before booking.

Who this route is for

Shanghai works for eligible travelers using China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy when the route, port, onward ticket, and permitted stay area all satisfy the official requirements.

Best for

First China stop
Business stopover
Suzhou and Hangzhou add-ons

Sample routes

London -> Shanghai -> Tokyo
Singapore -> Shanghai -> Seoul
Los Angeles -> Shanghai -> Bangkok

Pre-booking checks

The inbound origin and outbound first stop should be different countries or regions.
The onward ticket should have confirmed seat and departure date within 240 hours.
The arrival and departure ports must be designated for the policy.
The stay must remain inside the permitted area for the selected port.

Local notes

Keep the onward ticket to a third country or region ready at check-in and border inspection.
Use Shanghai as the base if the trip is under four days; add Hangzhou or Suzhou if the trip is longer.

Primary sources