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China transit visa

Does the arrival and departure flight need to be with the same airline when getting a Transit Visa ? I have a E-ticket with Air China London to Shanghai and a E-ticket with China Southern Shanghai to Tokyo that leaves 4 days after arrival.

For a China transit visa (typically the 144-hour or 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit, depending on the city), the airline used for arrival and departure does not need to be the same. What matters is that you meet the conditions of the transit policy, including having confirmed onward travel to a third country within the allowed transit period.

In your case, you have an e-ticket with Air China from London to Shanghai, and a separate e-ticket with China Southern from Shanghai to Tokyo, leaving 4 days after arrival. This situation is generally acceptable for a transit visa, as long as you comply with the following:

  • Your onward flight from Shanghai to Tokyo must be confirmed and departing within the maximum transit visa period (check if Shanghai qualifies for the 144-hour visa, which allows up to 6 days in the city).
  • You must enter China through a city or port that participates in the transit visa program. Shanghai is included in the 144-hour visa program.
  • You must have all necessary documents for your onward travel, including your passport, visa (if required for the next country), and the confirmed e-ticket.

Additional tips and points to note:

  • Even though different airlines are allowed, make sure your baggage handling is arranged properly. If your bags are not checked through to Tokyo, you will need to collect them in Shanghai and re-check them for your China Southern flight.
  • During your stay under the transit visa, you can travel within the city or province, but check the specific rules for permitted areas. Shanghai’s 144-hour visa allows free movement within the municipality.
  • Keep a copy of both flight tickets and your hotel or accommodation booking ready for immigration if asked, to prove your plans within the transit period.

In summary, your different airlines for arrival and departure are fine. Just ensure your stay does not exceed the transit visa period, you enter through Shanghai, and your onward travel to Tokyo is confirmed.

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