Free 24-Hour Stay Permit in China

July 31, 2017

As a Sky Pearl Club member of China Southern Airlines, I know they have the best perks in terms of layovers. I was searching on how to get a transit visa to China since I will be having a 21-hour layover at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport and to my surprise, China is giving 24-hour free temporary stay permit on almost all nationalities!

I also checked Travel China Guide's site and this is what they have posted. (All credits to the said site)

"Under the 24-hour visa-free transit rule, no visa is required for international flight, ship, or train passengers who transit directly through mainland China and will stay for less than 24 hours. This policy is applicable to almost all nationalities. Most airports are eligible, except the airports in Shenzhen, Yanji, Mudanjiang, and Fuzhou. Passengers should hold tickets to a third country or region and have a confirmed seat.

In case that they want to leave the port for city sightseeing or transfer to another port during the 24 hours, they can apply for a Temporary Stay Permit upon arrival. Those who transfer in more than one city of China within 24 hours can also enjoy this policy. For instance, if one's trip is Los Angeles – Beijing – Shanghai – Bangkok and the total time in China is less than 24 hours, the passenger can still enjoy the 24-hour direct transit."

Steps in applying 24-hour permit:

1) Fill up the embarkation card.

2) Go to immigration inspection with your travel documents, boarding pass for the onward journey, and apply for a 24-hour permit. Voila! Here's your free stay permit!