China Transit Visa

China, a vast and diverse nation, offers a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and futuristic modernity. From the Great Wall and the Forbidden City in Beijing to the bustling skyline of Shanghai, China’s rich culture, iconic landmarks, and unique cuisines attract millions of travellers every year. For travellers planning a short layover or en route to another destination, exploring top spots like Guangzhou, Chengdu, or Shenzhen is now easier with a China Transit Visa.

Whether you’re in Beijing for 24 hours or stopping over in Shanghai for a connecting flight, the China Transit Visa allows travellers to explore select cities during their layover. If you’re applying for a China visa online, make sure to check the China transit visa cost in advance. While you’re in China, don’t miss trying the best foreign currency exchange options at major airports and city centres for a smooth travel experience. A China Visa not only connects you with your next destination but also gives you a peek into one of the world’s oldest civilizations.

What is China Transit Visa?

The China Transit Visa (G Visa) is a short-term visa that allows foreign nationals, including Indian citizens, to transit through China for a limited period before continuing to a third country. This visa is ideal for those with connecting flights and who wish to leave the airport to explore the city during their stopover.

There are specific rules under the China in transit visa category:

24-Hour Transit Visa Exemption: Available at most international airports for passengers with connecting flights within 24 hours.
72-Hour and 144-Hour Transit Visas: Offered in select cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu for certain nationalities including Indians.

If you’re booking cheap flights to Beijing from India, you can easily apply for the China transit visa for Indians through the China visa application online platform. Make sure your Indian passport is valid; if not, you can apply for Indian passport online before proceeding to apply for China visa from India.

Transit Visa Eligibility

To be eligible for a China Transit Visa, you must:

Be traveling to a third country or region (not returning to the country of origin).
Hold a confirmed flight ticket for onward travel within the visa validity period.
Possess valid documents (visa/residence permit) for the destination country.

Types of China Visas include Tourist (L), Business (M), Transit (G), Work (Z), and Student (X), but the China Transit Visa is ideal for short layovers.

Indian travellers looking for comfort during their stopovers can book the best hotels in Shanghai near major airports. While applying for the transit in China visa, ensure you check all specific requirements applicable for China visa for Indians.

Requirements and Documents for China Transit Visa

To apply for a China Transit Visa, you’ll need to gather specific documents. Here’s your complete China visa document checklist:

Valid Indian Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Completed China Visa Application Form
Passport-size photograph (as per China visa photo size – 33mm x 48mm)
Confirmed air tickets showing onward travel within transit period
Visa/residence permit of the destination country
Proof of accommodation in China (if leaving the airport)
Travel itinerary

Refer to the official China visa guide to stay updated with changing rules. It’s essential to check China visa eligibility, track your China visa status, and stay informed with China visa tracking updates after submitting your application.

Planning to explore the city during your layover? Make your journey hassle-free and book car rental services in advance for airport transfers and short excursions.

How to Apply for a China Transit Visa

Follow these steps to apply for a China Transit Visa:

Check Eligibility: Confirm if your transit route qualifies for the G Visa or exemption.
Fill China Visa Application Form: Complete the online form accurately.
Book an Appointment: Schedule an interview at the Chinese Visa Application Centre (CVAC) in India.
Pay Visa Fee: Refer to the latest China visa rules and fee structure.
Submit Documents: Carry all originals and photocopies to your visa appointment.
Collect Your Visa: Once approved, collect your passport and visa from CVAC.

Note: China Visa on Arrival is not applicable for most nationalities, including Indians. Transit travellers must obtain the visa in advance unless eligible for the visa exemption policy.

China Transit Visa Processing Time

The standard China Transit Visa processing time is 4-5 working days after submission. Expedited processing (2-3 days) is available at an additional cost, but it’s advisable to apply at least 10 days in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

China Transit Visa Fees for Indian Passport Holders

The China Transit Visa fee for Indian passport holders is approximately INR 4,900 (USD 60). This fee may vary slightly based on the service provider and processing time.

When applying, make sure to check:

China visa for Indians fees
China visa photo size (mandatory)
Latest China visa rules for transit travellers

Always confirm the final fee with the Chinese Visa Application Centre or authorized agencies.

China Transit Visa Validity

The China Transit Visa is typically valid for:

24 to 144 hours, depending on the city and transit policy.
Valid only for the specified entry city mentioned in your application.
Single entry use; once you leave China, re-entry requires a new visa.

Ensure your travel plans align with the China visa validity to avoid overstay penalties.

China Transit Visa Application Process

The complete China Transit Visa application process includes the following:

Preparation – Review eligibility, gather required documents, and check validity of your passport and onward tickets.
Application Form – Fill out the China visa application online accurately.
Appointment Booking: – Schedule an appointment with the Visa Centre.
Document Submission – Submit application form, passport, photo, and supporting documents.
Visa Fee Payment – Pay via cash/card or online as per the centre’s instructions.
Tracking & Status – Use the China visa tracking system to monitor application status.

Visa Collection – Collect passport and China Transit Visa once approved.

FAQs:

Q.What is China's Transit Visa and who needs it?

A Transit Visa (G Visa) allows foreign nationals to pass through China en route to a third country. Travelers from countries not eligible for visa-free transit or those planning to stay beyond the visa-free period must obtain this visa.

Q.What is the 240-hour visa-free transit policy?

China expanded its visa-free transit policy, permitting eligible travellers from 54 countries to stay in China for up to 240 hours (10 days) without a visa when transiting to a third country.

Q.Which countries are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit?

Citizens from 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and most European Union nations, are eligible for this policy. A comprehensive list is available on official Chinese immigration websites.

Q.What are the requirements to utilize the 240-hour visa-free transit?

Travelers must: Hold a passport valid for at least three months from the date of entry. Have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country (not the country of origin). Possess a visa for the destination country if required. Enter and exit through one of the 60 designated ports across 24 provinces.

Q.Can travellers move between cities during the 240-hour visa-free period?

Yes, travellers can move within the specified regions permitted under the visa-free transit policy. It’s essential to verify the allowed areas upon entry, as they may vary by port of entry.

Q.Is the 24-hour visa-free transit still available?

Yes, the 24-hour visa-free transit policy remains in effect for travellers of most nationalities transiting through China to a third country, provided they depart within 24 hours and meet other entry requirements.

Q.How is the 240-hour period calculated?

The 240-hour period typically starts from 00:00 (midnight) following the day of entry, giving travellers slightly more time than a strict hour-by-hour calculation. However, it’s advisable to confirm this upon arrival, as practices may vary by port.

Q.What happens if a traveller overstays the visa-free transit period?

Overstaying can result in fines, detention, or deportation. It’s crucial to adhere strictly to the permitted duration and depart China before the visa-free period expires.

Q.Can travellers apply for a regular visa if they don't meet visa-free transit requirements?

Yes, travellers not meeting visa-free transit criteria must apply for an appropriate visa, such as a Transit (G) Visa, at a Chinese embassy or consulate before traveling. This process involves submitting an application form, passport, photo, and other supporting documents.

Q.Are there any recent changes to China's visa policies?

Yes, as of December 17, 2024, China extended its visa-free transit stay to 240 hours and increased the number of eligible entry ports to 60 across 24 provinces, aiming to attract more foreign visitors.