EXPLORECondé Nast Traveler · 3d ago
I Visited China as an American Without a Visa—Here’s How You Can Do It Too
Executive Brief
The 30-second read
U.S. business travelers can leverage China's transit program to enter specific regions for up to 144 hours without a formal visa. Successful entry requires strict adherence to international transit regulations and pre-approved onward travel documentation to a third country.
- 01Utilize the 144-hour visa-free transit program for short-term business engagements in major Chinese hubs
- 02Ensure itinerary qualifies by departing to a third country or region distinct from the departure point
- 03Prepare all required travel documents and confirmed flight bookings for presentation at port of entry
- 04Monitor regional eligibility requirements as transit rules vary between Shanghai and other Chinese municipalities
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London Business News: Executive Guide →AI-generated summary · Verify at source
Writer Matt Ortile tries out China's 10-Day Transit Program on a trip to Shanghai—and offers first-hand tips on what to do (and what not to do).