China 72 hour TWOV-Travelers holding US and many other passports are allowed to enter China for international transfers lasting up to 72 hours. Upon arrival, it is important to note that the standard immigration line for “Foreigners” should not be used. Instead, there is a separate line on the far right for “Special” passengers, although the signage does not mention TWOV (Transit Without Visa). Unfortunately, some CZ “Transfer” representatives may direct travelers to the longer “Foreigners” line. China has resumed its 24-hour visa-free transit policy as of January 8th, 2023 after a three-year suspension due to the COVID-19 epidemic. This policy allows air, train, and ship passengers transiting through mainland China to stay for up to 24 hours without a visa before continuing on to a third country or region. Most nationalities are eligible for the 24-hour TWOV in China, with some exceptions in certain airports. Passport holders from Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Thailand, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Yemen require a visa when transiting through Xiamen. Syrian citizens transiting through Guangzhou are also not eligible for the 24-hour visa-free transit. If your stay in Chinese mainland is less than 24 hours […]