240-hour visa-free transit query

Question

In March I will be flying (on a UK passport) from Delhi to Beijing (3hr stopover in Hong Kong) and then, 4 days later, from Beijing to London (2hr stopover in Xi'an).

My understanding was that the previous 144-hour visa-free transit wouldn't cover that trip, because of the stopover in Xi'an. But I think the cross-province policy under the new 240-hour rules might mean it's now ok - is that correct?

Thanks in advance for any help!

Answer

The 240-hour visa-free transit (TWOV) in China allows eligible nationals, including UK passport holders, to stay in certain cities or regions for up to 10 days without a visa. This is an expansion of the previous 144-hour policy and covers multiple provinces and municipalities under defined rules.

For your itinerary:

Flight from Delhi to Beijing with a 3-hour stopover in Hong Kong: Hong Kong is not part of the mainland China 240-hour TWOV scheme. It has separate visa regulations, but since your stop is only 3 hours and you won’t leave the airport, it does not affect your eligibility.
Beijing stay of 4 days before your onward flight to London via Xi’an: Under the 240-hour TWOV, you are allowed to travel within the eligible provinces that fall under the specific city/region arrangement. Beijing and Xi’an are both included in the 240-hour scheme, but movement across provinces must be within the stipulated regions covered by the TWOV rules.
Key requirement: Your onward international flight must depart from the same city or eligible region, or from another city within the approved cross-province arrangement. Make sure your exit flight from Xi’an is within the cities/provinces allowed under the TWOV cross-province policy.

Important considerations:

Confirm that your flights and entry/exit points match the allowed cities for the 240-hour TWOV. Beijing to Xi’an is considered cross-province, which is now permitted under the expanded 240-hour rules.
Check with your airline and the airport immigration desks to ensure documentation is in order for TWOV. They may ask for proof of onward international travel and accommodation details.
Although your stop in Hong Kong does not affect eligibility, make sure you do not exit Hong Kong during that layover, as it would require a separate visa if you leave the airport.

Conclusion: Based on current 240-hour TWOV rules, your itinerary—entering Beijing, staying 4 days, and exiting from Xi’an—should be eligible for visa-free transit, provided you follow the cross-province rules and your flights are confirmed with proper documentation.

240-hour visa-free transit query

More China Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions