Prepare three key documents for China's transit visa exemption: your onward ticket showing departure to a third country or region, hotel reservation if staying overnight, and a valid passport. Immigration typically asks about stay duration and onward travel proof.
You can travel around most of China during the transit visa exemption period. The policy no longer restricts you to the port of entry region. After entering through Shanghai PVG, you can visit Nanjing, Suzhou, or travel by train to distant cities like Chengdu.
US citizens can enter China without a visa through the 240-hour transit exemption policy. This guide explains how American travelers can use this visa-free transit option by flying from one country to China and exiting to a different region like Hong Kong or Macau.
Hong Kong counts as a valid third region for China's transit visa exemption because it operates a separate customs and immigration system from mainland China. Routes like US to Shanghai to Hong Kong qualify for visa-free transit entry.
Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) is a designated entry point for China's 240-hour transit visa exemption. This guide explains the arrival process, documents required, and what immigration officers typically ask.