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Transit

If I fly Tokyo to Hangzhou with a 2 1/2 hour layover and connect to Air China on same ticket to Chengdu when do I have to clear immigration? Do they make me do it at first stop in China or my final destination when I seek to exit airport? Looking to use a transit no visa required.

When transiting through China on a same-ticket itinerary, whether you need to clear immigration depends on whether your connecting flight is considered a domestic or international transfer and whether your luggage is checked through to your final destination.

For your specific case: Tokyo → Hangzhou (first flight) and connecting to Air China to Chengdu:

  • If you remain in the international transit area in Hangzhou and your luggage is checked through to Chengdu, you usually do not need to clear immigration at Hangzhou. You stay in the transit zone until your domestic connecting flight.
  • If your luggage is not checked through or you want to leave the airport during the layover, you would need to clear immigration at Hangzhou, which may require a visa or qualify for the 24/144-hour visa-free transit if eligible.
  • Since your final destination is Chengdu (domestic leg), typically you clear immigration at your first point of entry into China if you are entering the country officially. But with a through-ticket and proper transit procedures, Hangzhou airport should allow you to stay in the transit area without needing a visa.

Other practical considerations:

  • A 2½ hour layover is usually sufficient for an international-to-domestic transfer at Hangzhou, but check if both flights are in the same terminal; some airports may require a short transfer between terminals.
  • Confirm with your airlines that your luggage will be checked through to Chengdu to avoid needing to collect and recheck it.
  • Always verify with the airline and Hangzhou Airport regarding the current transit visa policies and procedures, as rules can change.

In summary, if both flights are on the same ticket and your baggage is checked through, you likely will not need to clear immigration at Hangzhou and can use the visa-free transit for connecting flights. Immigration is only required if you formally enter China or collect your luggage before the next flight.

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