Entry policy · Last checked 2026-05-18
The two policies solve different problems. If your passport has ordinary 30-day visa-free entry, that path is usually simpler. If it does not, the 240h transit policy can still work, but only when your route, port, stay time, and stay area all fit the transit rules.
Use 30-day ordinary visa-free when
Use 240h transit when
Decision table
| Question | 30-day ordinary visa-free | 240h transit |
|---|---|---|
| Needs A → China → B routing? | No | Yes |
| Works for same-country round trip? | Yes, if passport and stay duration qualify | No |
| Requires listed transit port? | No, ordinary immigration rules apply | Yes, use a designated 240h port |
| Best next step | Complete the arrival card and first-night address checklist | Build a Boarding Kit before airline check-in |
The most common mistake is using the 240h mental model when the passport already qualifies for ordinary visa-free entry. That creates artificial routing anxiety: travelers try to force a third-country onward leg even though ordinary visa-free entry would allow a normal round trip.
The reverse mistake is worse: a traveler without ordinary visa-free entry books a round trip and assumes the 240-hour number alone is enough. It is not. For 240h transit, the route shape matters as much as the stay duration.
If the checker recommends ordinary visa-free entry, continue to the Digital Arrival Card guide and save your first-night hotel address. If it recommends 240h transit, generate the Boarding Kit before departure so the airline counter can verify your route quickly.