Question

Asked by Katherine Pillow from usa | Jan. 22, 2026 10:08

About:24-Hour Visa-Free Transit

China 10-Day (240-Hour) Visa-Free Transit Policy

I have read conflicting information on if Hong Kong is considered an "international transit" for this 10-Day (240-Hour) Visa-Free Transit Policy. For example, one website states that HK is part of the "Great China" and as such is NOT considered an international transit. I have also read articles that say otherwise.
We are US citizens with US passports and would like to visit HK and China Mainland. We would appreciate it if you would let us know if our planned itinerary would qualify: USA to HK and stay in HK for 5 to 7 days, then fly to Beijing, etc. for an 11-day tour (10 days start counting the day after arrival), then fly out of Shanghai directly back to the USA.
I have not been able to find any authoritative language on the Chinese Immigration Administration website that discuss the status of Hong Kong for the policy.
Thank you very much for your help in this matter.

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Answers (1)

Answered by Borut | Jan. 22, 2026 17:01

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The first and the most important detail is that your entire itinerary is definitely and undeniably eligible for 240 hour visa free transit. You are also correct about the length of your allowed stay in mainland China because the day of arrival is not counted against your available 10 days. You can take it for granted. Here just one detail... Your flight Shanghai to US is not allowed to have a landing of any kind in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is considered as eligible territory and consequently it is fine to use it when traveling on 240 hour visa free transit. The city is part of China, but it has its own immigration, financial and other autonomous prerogatives that make it eligible for creating valid 240 hour visa free transit journeys as it is yours. Beside Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau are also eligible territories.

Now, when you know all the necessary details, you can have absolute peace of mind. I wish you a wonderful visit to China.

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