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144hour free transit at Shanghai Pudong Airport

I am travelling alone to Tokyo from London with a 2hr 55 min layover at Pudong Airport. Is this enough time to get my 144 hour free transit? I should be arriving and leaving terminal 2. Having read some off the reviews, I am beginning to think I should avoid this layover so would appreciate some recent experience. Thanks

A 2-hour 55-minute layover at Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) is generally not sufficient to make use of the 144-hour visa-free transit (TWOV) program. The 144-hour free transit is designed for travelers who plan to leave the airport and spend time in Shanghai or nearby cities, not for short transit connections between flights.

Here’s why the layover is too short:

  • The 144-hour TWOV process requires you to clear immigration, potentially collect checked luggage (if not through-checked), complete entry formalities, and present proof of onward travel and accommodation. This process can take 30–60 minutes or more depending on queues.
  • Even if you clear immigration quickly, you would technically be entering China and then immediately need to return through security and immigration to catch your flight to Tokyo. This adds extra complexity and risk, particularly with tight transfer times.
  • Airports typically advise a minimum connection time of at least 3 hours for international flights when you stay within the airport. Attempting to exit for a short TWOV visit with under 3 hours may result in missing your onward flight.

Additional considerations:

  • Both your arrival and departure are at Terminal 2, which simplifies the connection, but the terminal is large and navigating between immigration, baggage claim (if applicable), and departure gates can still be time-consuming.
  • Even if technically possible in a very fast, ideal scenario, any delay (flight, immigration lines, security checks) could make you miss your flight to Tokyo.
  • If your goal is to experience Shanghai under the TWOV program, it is better to have at least an overnight or 24+ hour layover to make it worthwhile and safe.

In summary, for a 2-hour 55-minute layover, it is strongly recommended to remain airside and not attempt to use the 144-hour free transit program. Focus on a smooth transfer to your Tokyo flight rather than trying to leave the airport.

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