Can you get 2nd time 240 hours transit China visa
Hi! I have a question about the possibility in getting a second time 240 hours transit visa.
We are planning to go from
US - China - India - China - US
Have any of you ever get another 240 hours transit visa for the 2nd visit?
The first visit we’re planning to go to Chongqing & Chengdu area for around 9 days.
The second one we’re planning to go to Beijing-Xi An - Shanghai
Please let me know if any of you successfully get the 2nd 240 hours transit visa. I emailed the embassy but stilll waiting for the reply.
Thank you in advance!!
The 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit (TWOV) policy in China allows eligible nationals to stay in certain cities without a visa, provided they meet the requirements. Regarding your question about obtaining a second 240-hour transit, here are the details:
General Rules:
- TWOV is granted per entry and is not automatically linked to prior entries. In principle, there is no rule preventing a second TWOV as long as each entry meets the eligibility criteria.
- Each application is considered individually at the port of entry, and the final decision rests with the immigration officer.
- US passport holders are eligible for 240-hour TWOV in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and several others.
Practical Considerations:
- When entering China for the second time under 240-hour TWOV, make sure your itinerary clearly shows onward travel to a third country (in your case, from China to India and then back to China before leaving to the US).
- Prepare documentation including hotel bookings, onward flight tickets, and an explanation of your travel route to show immigration officers.
- Although there is no explicit restriction on multiple uses, repeated short-term transit entries in a short period may lead to additional questioning at immigration.
Experience from Other Travelers:
- Many travelers have successfully obtained a second 240-hour transit within the same year, provided they comply with all conditions.
- Some travelers report that immigration officers sometimes ask detailed questions about previous visits, so keeping clear documentation helps smooth the process.
- It is recommended to have a flexible plan in case the second TWOV is not granted for the full 10 days, although this is uncommon if all requirements are met.
In summary, obtaining a second 240-hour transit visa in China is generally possible for US passport holders, but it is discretionary and depends on the immigration officer at the port of entry. Make sure to carry full documentation and a clear travel plan to support your request.
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