Do I need visa during my 2 stays in Shanghai

Question

Hello,

I have New Zealand passport, I bought return ticket from Auckland to Shanghai 24th of Oct - 27th of Nov,

and also bought return ticket from Shanghai to Milan 26th Oct - 13th Nov, do I need visa during my 2 stays in Shanghai :

24–26 Oct → only 2 days

13–27 Nov → 15 days

Thanks a lot

Answer

For your situation as a New Zealand passport holder, visa requirements for China depend on the type of entry and duration of stay.

1. First stay: 24–26 Oct (2 days)

If you are entering Shanghai directly from Auckland and not leaving the city or traveling elsewhere in China, you may be eligible for the 144-hour visa-free transit (VFTF) in Shanghai. This allows short stays within certain cities for tourism or business without a visa.
Requirements include having a confirmed onward ticket to a third country (Milan, in your case) within the 144-hour period, and your passport must be valid for at least six months.

2. Second stay: 13–27 Nov (15 days)

The 144-hour visa-free transit only applies for short stays. Since your second stay is 15 days, it exceeds the 144-hour window.
You will need to obtain a tourist visa (L visa) before arrival for this period. This can be applied for at the Chinese embassy or consulate in New Zealand or through a visa service.
Ensure your visa dates cover the entire duration of your 15-day stay, from 13–27 Nov.

Practical Tips:

Keep all flight confirmations and hotel bookings available in case immigration asks for proof.
Check that your passport validity meets the six-month minimum rule for entry into China.
Confirm the exact city coverage for the 144-hour visa-free transit, as it typically applies to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and some other major cities only.

In summary, your first short stay may not require a visa under the 144-hour rule, but your second 15-day stay will require a standard tourist visa issued in advance.