🇺🇸 United States → China: Visa & Entry Guide
⚠️ Transit visa-free only (240h)Transit only
Best entry method
Use 240-hour transit visa-free via major cities.
Requires onward ticket to a third country
Last verified: 2026-03-133 sources listed below
Recommended: 240-hour transit visa-free
How it works
- ✓Transit through China without a visa for up to 240 hours
- ✓Must have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country/region
- ✓Available at 65 ports across 24 regions
Restrictions
- !Must depart to a different country than your origin
- !Passport must be valid for 3+ months
- !Stay limited to approved transit regions
All Entry Options
| Method | Eligible | Max Stay | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa-free entry | No | N/A | Not eligible |
| 240h transit visa-free★ | Yes | 240 hours | Requires onward ticket to third country |
| L visa application | Yes | Varies by visa type | Contact embassy |
Requirements
Passport
Valid for at least 3 months from entry date
Documents
- •Valid passport
- •Confirmed onward ticket to a third country/region
Other
- •Stay within designated transit regions
Entry Ports
Available at 65 ports across 24 regions in China.
Common entry ports include:
BeijingShanghaiGuangzhouShenzhenChengduXi'anKunmingXiamenQingdaoWuhan
!Must stay within approved transit regions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can United States citizens visit China without a visa?▾
Not for a regular visit. However, you can transit through China visa-free for up to 240 hours if you have an onward ticket to a third country.
What counts as a 'third country' for transit?▾
Your onward destination must be different from the country you arrived from. For example, you cannot fly from and return to the same country.
Which cities can I visit under transit visa-free?▾
The 240-hour transit visa-free policy covers 65 ports across 24 regions. You must stay within the approved transit area of your entry port.
How long must my passport be valid?▾
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from your date of entry into China.
Sources & Verification
National Immigration Administration 240-hour transit policy
National Immigration Administration notice on 65 transit ports
Last verified: 2026-03-13. Visa policies can change without notice. Always verify with official sources before traveling.
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