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Visitor & short-stay visas

Chinese China G Visa (Transit Visa)

For travellers transiting through China to another country. Some may instead qualify for separate visa-free transit arrangements depending on route and nationality.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Entries and duration for the G visa are set by the issuing mission. The 240-hour visa-free transit policy has eligibility conditions (nationality list, designated ports, onward third-country ticket) that change - the count of eligible countries/ports is not restated here as a fixed figure and should be verified on the NIA notice.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official China government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
G Visa (Transit)
Route type
Transit
Number of entries
Usually single or double entry
Decided by the mission
Duration of stay
Short, for the transit only
Set on the visa; transit is not for extended stays
Visa-free alternative
240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit for eligible nationals
Nationals of the countries covered by the policy who are travelling on to a third country may transit visa-free at designated ports instead of using a G visa
Where to apply
Chinese Visa Application Service Center or Chinese embassy/consulate, via COVA
Cost
Set by the issuing mission; varies by nationality

Who can apply

  • Travellers passing through China to an onward destination

What you can do

  • Transit through China to reach another country

Requirements

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank visa pages
  • A completed, printed and signed online application form with one recent white-background passport photo
  • A through (onward) air, train or ship ticket to a third country or region, showing a confirmed date and seat
  • A valid entry visa for your onward destination, where one is required

How to apply

  • Check first whether you qualify for visa-free transit instead of a G visa (see below)
  • If you need the visa, complete the COVA application form at consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA and upload your documents
  • Submit your passport, the signed confirmation page, your onward ticket and any onward-destination visa to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center or Chinese embassy/consulate when prompted
  • Pay the fee and collect your passport when it is ready

Documents you may need

  • Original passport plus a photocopy of the bio-data page
  • Printed, signed COVA confirmation page and a recent passport photo
  • A confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region (air, train or ship) with the date and seat
  • A valid visa for the onward destination if that country requires one

Frequently asked questions

  • Not necessarily. Since December 2024 eligible nationals travelling on to a third country or region may use China's 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy at designated ports of entry, in which case a G visa is not required. Check the current list of eligible nationalities and ports before you travel, and note that you must hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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