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Transit without Visa question

If I enter China from Thailand I understand I can stay for 240 hours without a visa as long as I have an onward ticket to another country - not back to Thailand.

My question is are there any restrictions on where you can go - for example can you transit to Hong Kong or Taiwan or does the scheme exclude these destinations?

Thanks

The 240-hour visa-free transit (TWOV) in China allows travelers from certain countries to stay in specified Chinese regions without a visa, provided they have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country within 10 days (240 hours). However, there are specific rules regarding the destination and areas you can visit.

Regarding your question about restrictions:

  • The onward ticket must be to a country other than the one you arrived from. For example, if you arrive from Thailand, your next flight must be to a country other than Thailand.
  • Transit to Hong Kong or Macau is generally allowed only if your onward journey continues to a third country outside mainland China. You cannot use the 240-hour transit solely to go to Hong Kong or Macau without leaving mainland China.
  • Transit to Taiwan is not covered under the 240-hour TWOV scheme. Taiwan has its own entry and visa requirements separate from mainland China.
  • You must stay within the designated provinces or municipalities that are eligible for the 240-hour transit visa. Popular regions include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and certain ports in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shandong, etc.

Additional considerations:

  • You need to show proof of your onward travel (flight/train tickets) and may be asked to show your itinerary within China.
  • Although transit to Hong Kong or Macau is possible, the time spent there will count towards your 240-hour limit if you depart from the same port of entry.
  • Always check the local rules before traveling, as regulations can be updated and may differ between entry points.

In summary, while you can travel to Hong Kong or Macau during your 240-hour stay, Taiwan is excluded from this scheme, and you must comply with the designated entry and exit points as well as regional restrictions.

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The attractions mentioned in this question

Guangzhou
Beijing
municipalities
Taiwan
Chengdu
Shandong
Thailand
China
China
country
Jiangsu
Shanghai
Zhejiang

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