Transit visa 72 hours with separate bookings
Hi,
I have a question as a British if I have two separate bookings with different airlines from country A to C via 3 days layover in mainland china (e.g. Shanghai) , will I be allowed to travel and able to apply for 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit at aiport in China?
PNR: X, Airline Y: London to Shanghai
and after 72 hours
PNR A, Airline B: Shanghai to Tokyo
The 144-hour visa-free transit (VFT) in China, which covers Shanghai, is available for certain nationalities, including British citizens. However, there are strict conditions that must be met regarding your travel arrangements.
Key points to consider when you have separate bookings:
- The visa-free transit is intended for travelers with an onward ticket to a third country within 144 hours (6 days). The onward flight must be confirmed before arrival in China.
- Ideally, your onward flight and initial arrival should be on a single PNR or at least clearly linked, showing you are continuing to a third country. Separate bookings can be accepted, but you must be able to show both tickets at immigration.
- The transit must be through one of the designated ports, such as Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA). Your entry and exit must remain within the permitted cities of the Shanghai Municipality.
Additional requirements and advice:
- Prepare printouts or digital copies of both your arrival and departure flight confirmations.
- Ensure your onward flight from Shanghai to the third country (Tokyo in this case) is within the 144-hour window from your entry time.
- Carry your passport and any supporting documents that prove you will leave China within the allowed time.
- Immigration officers have discretion; while separate bookings are often accepted, there is a small risk of refusal if documentation seems inconsistent.
In summary, as a British citizen, you can apply for the 144-hour visa-free transit in Shanghai even with separate flight bookings, as long as you can prove onward travel to a third country within the allowed time frame and comply with entry requirements.
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