Temporary entry permit - changing airports in Shanghai

Question

Hello, I have an Egyptian passport. I have a trip back from south korea with a 13 hr transit in Shanghai, but I have to change airports from Hongqiao to Pudong. I saw on the immigration site that any nationality can apply for a temporary entry permit to enter Shanghai for less than 24 hour if they have a connecting flight. as I understand, I have to collect my luggage from Hongqiao and go to pudong to check in again. does anyone have a similar experience to this and got granted the 24 hour temporary entry permit especially if your passport originaly requires a visa to enter china? the lack of info online is making me very anxious.

Answer

For travelers with a nationality that normally requires a visa to enter China, like Egyptian passport holders, there is indeed a process for obtaining a temporary entry permit for short transit stays in Shanghai. This is especially relevant if you need to switch airports from Hongqiao (SHA) to Pudong (PVG) during a long layover.

Here is a detailed explanation based on official guidance and traveler experiences:

Eligibility: The temporary entry permit, sometimes referred to as a 24-hour transit entry permit, allows nationals of any country to enter Shanghai for less than 24 hours for purposes such as connecting flights, provided the traveler has confirmed onward travel documents.
Application Process: You typically apply for this permit at the immigration counter upon arrival at Shanghai. Prepare the following documents:
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months).
- Confirmed onward flight ticket departing within 24 hours.
- Visa application form or transit permit form, if required at the counter.
- Hotel or transit plan is optional but can support your application.
Switching Airports: Since you need to collect your luggage from Hongqiao and transfer to Pudong, the temporary entry permit allows you to leave the airport legally. It is crucial to ensure your layover time accommodates airport transfer, security, and check-in requirements. The taxi or metro transfer between Hongqiao and Pudong takes approximately 1–1.5 hours under normal traffic conditions.
Granted Experiences: Travelers in similar situations report that immigration officers generally grant the 24-hour temporary entry permit if the connecting flight is confirmed and your documents are in order. However, approval is at the discretion of the immigration officer, so having all supporting documents ready is essential.

Additional tips and considerations:

Arrive early at immigration and explain clearly that you are transiting and need to switch airports.
Check with your airline in advance to see if they can assist with luggage transfer or provide guidance on transit procedures between the two airports.
Have a plan for transport between the two airports, whether by taxi, ride-hailing app, or airport shuttle. Avoid relying solely on public transport if timing is tight.
Keep copies of your onward flight ticket and passport readily accessible for the immigration officer.
Even with a temporary entry permit, ensure you return to Pudong in plenty of time for security and check-in for your next flight, as lines can be long.

In summary, as an Egyptian passport holder, you are eligible to apply for the temporary 24-hour entry permit at Shanghai immigration, which allows you to leave Hongqiao Airport and transfer to Pudong. While approval is at the discretion of the immigration officer, having all supporting documents and a clear transit plan greatly increases the likelihood of being granted the permit. Make sure to allocate sufficient time for airport transfer and security checks.

Temporary entry permit - changing airports in Shanghai

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