getting 144-hr transit on multi-leg journey (but only exiting airport in one place)

Question

Example: 1st leg lands in Kunming (7 hours layover)2nd leg lands in Fuzhou (2 hours layover)3rd leg lands in Shanghai (22 hours layover)I have been told this itinerary is not eligible for 24-hour transit waiver in Shanghai because the total amount of time starting from arriving in Kunming is too long. Someone also said that I cannot apply for 144-hour waiver instead, because there are multiple stops. However, I would not be trying to leave the airport at Kunming & Fuzhou, in different regions from Shanghai. The example given on this page mentioned you can only have one but does that mean only one EXIT from airport or only one stop, period? Is it not possible to wait until arriving in Shanghai to apply for 144-hour transit then?

CDKING · Answer

Multiple landings in Mainland china is limited to a total time of 24 hours from scheduled arrival in Kunming and scheduled departure from Shanghai. The 24 hour time includes time on the ground and time in the air so you are way over. You can only transit one region on a 144 hour transit There is no I just wont leave the airport exception. You will be forced to formally enter china upon initial arrival in Kunming as the flights to Fuzhou and Shanghai are domestic flights which are not allowed on a 144 hour transit. Its similar to how it works in the USA where immigration is handled at initial port of initial landing.

CDKING · Answer

To add, Fuzhou Airport does not participate in 24 or 144 hour transits so you need a visa on all fronts. The good news is with USA passport can apply for the 10 year multiple entry (L) visa so as long as you get that before you leave you are good for the next decade. Cost is the same as a single entry visa.

Julie · Answer

Thank you, CDKING! Very clear.

Getting 144-hr transit on multi-leg journey (but only exiting airport in one place)

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