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China 240 Visa Reference Hong Kong as a Third Country

I’m a US citizen flying from Korea to Beijing for 5 days then fly to Hong Kong for 4 days and then fly back to Korea. Does this itinerary flying into Hong Kong meet the requirements of a third region?

The 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy in China allows travelers from certain countries, including the US, to enter specific regions of China without a visa, provided they meet the criteria of entering from one foreign country and leaving to a different foreign country or region within the allowed transit period.

Regarding your itinerary:

  • Arrival in Beijing from Korea.
  • Stay in mainland China for 5 days.
  • Fly to Hong Kong for 4 days.
  • Depart Hong Kong back to Korea.

Important points to note:

  • The 240-hour visa-free transit applies to mainland China. Hong Kong and Macau are considered separate administrative regions and are treated differently for visa purposes.
  • For the 240-hour visa-free transit in Beijing, the “third country” rule requires that your entry into China and your exit from China be to different foreign countries or regions. In your case, you enter Beijing from Korea and exit from Hong Kong. Hong Kong is considered a separate region, so this generally satisfies the “third region” requirement.
  • However, you must leave mainland China for Hong Kong before your visa-free transit period expires. Once in Hong Kong, you are subject to Hong Kong’s entry requirements and cannot use the same 240-hour transit period there.

Additional considerations:

  • Ensure your onward ticket from Hong Kong to a third country (Korea in this case) is confirmed, as immigration may ask for proof of onward travel.
  • Check that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned exit from China.
  • Keep in mind that visa-free transit policies are strictly enforced at the port of entry, and final approval is always at the discretion of Chinese immigration.

In summary, entering Beijing from Korea and leaving mainland China to Hong Kong does meet the general requirements for the 240-hour visa-free transit, because Hong Kong counts as a separate region. You should still carry proof of onward travel from Hong Kong and comply with all immigration regulations.

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