Transitvisa for US citizen - separate flight booking

Question

Hello, it is not mentioned in the latest ruling that the 3rd country (exiting China) must be in the same flight booking . We are wondering if the following arrangements be permitted

Spore to Beijing - one way flight

10 days later

Guangzhou to Hong Kong - high speed train

We are aware we need to secure confirmed train/flight tickets departing China to 3rd country. Just need to clarify if it's ok to book it separately. Thanks for any input.

Answer

For U.S. citizens planning to use China’s transit visa (such as the 144-hour or 72-hour transit visa, depending on the city), the key requirement is that you are in transit to a third country or region. The visa does not explicitly require that your departing flight from China be on the same booking as your incoming flight.

Based on your proposed itinerary:

Arrival: Singapore → Beijing (one-way flight)
10 days later: Guangzhou → Hong Kong via high-speed train
From Hong Kong: onward flight to a third country

Consider the following points:

Separate bookings: It is generally acceptable to have separate bookings, as long as you can show confirmed tickets or reservations for exiting China to a third country or region. The authorities want proof that you will leave China within the visa validity period.
High-speed train as part of transit: Traveling by train from Guangzhou to Hong Kong is considered domestic travel and does not affect your transit visa eligibility, provided your ultimate departure from China is to a third country or region.
Documentation: Be prepared to show both your train ticket and confirmed onward flight from Hong Kong when requested by immigration officers. Make sure your travel plan fits within the visa’s allowed duration (for example, 144 hours in Beijing and surrounding areas).
Timing: The visa validity period starts upon entry, not necessarily from the flight arrival, so ensure your total stay in China (including any domestic transfers) does not exceed the permitted time.

In summary, booking your exit to a third country separately from your inbound flight is generally acceptable for the transit visa, as long as you have confirmed tickets and your overall travel schedule adheres to the visa’s conditions. Carry all necessary proof of onward travel to present at immigration checkpoints.

Transitvisa for US citizen - separate flight booking

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