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Visa requirements for UK

Hi, so I am a British passport holder and planning to visit Beijing for 48 hrs as a stop over on my way back from Seoul, South Korea. It is unclear if I can just apply for the 144hr transit visa on arrival or if need to apply for a proper visa before hand. Please could you assist on this? Also how much does a transit visa cost?

As a British passport holder planning a short stopover in Beijing for 48 hours, you are eligible to apply for China’s 144-hour visa-free transit (TWOV) policy, provided you meet the entry requirements. This policy is specifically designed for transit passengers who are continuing to a third country or region, such as from Seoul to your onward destination.

Here are the details you need to know:

  • Eligibility: The 144-hour visa-free transit is available for British citizens. You must arrive in Beijing and depart to a third country or region within 144 hours (6 days). Returning to the same country of departure does not qualify.
  • Application on arrival: You can apply for the 144-hour visa-free transit on arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport. There is no need to apply for a full Chinese visa beforehand for this short transit.
  • Required documents:
    • Passport valid for at least 6 months.
    • Confirmed onward flight ticket departing within 144 hours to a third country.
    • Completed arrival card, which is usually provided on the plane or at the airport.
  • Cost: There is no fee for the 144-hour visa-free transit. It is free of charge.

Additional notes:

  • The 144-hour transit only applies if you stay in the designated area, such as Beijing Municipality. Traveling outside the permitted region requires a standard Chinese visa.
  • Make sure your onward flight is confirmed and that your travel documents clearly show the destination outside China.
  • If your plans change or you wish to stay longer, you would need to apply for a standard Chinese visa in advance through the embassy or visa center.

In summary, for a 48-hour stopover in Beijing as a British citizen, you can use the 144-hour visa-free transit upon arrival without paying a fee, as long as your onward journey is to a third country and you remain within the permitted area.

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