Transit visa requirements

Transit visa-free entry in Chinese cities (e.g., Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hangzhou) requires an entry health declaration QR code, which can be generated via apps like Alipay 24 hours prior. Transit duration of under 5-6 hours is risky due to potential queues at immigration and mandatory security re-screening.

Russian citizens can enter China visa-free for transit. When flying via airports like Yanji with a transfer in Seoul, airlines and border officials may request proof of onward travel (tickets out of the Philippines) and a valid K-ETA if leaving the transit zone in Seoul. If staying airside in Seoul for a direct transfer, a K-ETA is generally not required, though some Chinese border agents may still request to see it at the point of origin.

Russian citizens can utilize the 24/144-hour visa-free transit in China (e.g., Guangzhou CAN, Chengdu TFU). To exit into the city during a long layover, complete the arrival card/electronic form at the immigration area, specify any nearby hotel as temporary accommodation, and state the purpose as transit/holiday. Ensure you have your onward ticket to a third country ready. If transit is international with thru-checked baggage, leave hand luggage at airport storage.

Russian citizens can utilize visa-free transit in China for long layovers (e.g., Beijing Daxing). Passengers can clear customs for temporary entry, leave the airport area, and book nearby hotels. Check if the airline provides complimentary transit hotels for long layovers. Ensure baggage is checked through to the final destination if possible, or carry only hand luggage for easier transit.

Transit through Shanghai Pudong (PVG): 1. Single booking allows baggage to be transferred automatically. 2. Transit zone stay (up to 24 hours) requires no visa. 3. Leaving the airport to the city is permitted for up to 10 days (requires arrival card). 4. If a flight is missed due to airline delay on a single ticket, the airline must rebook the passenger on the next available flight. 5. Lounge access can often be managed via third-party apps or premium banking services.

Russian citizens can transit through China without a visa for up to a certain period, provided they are exiting the country within the transit time. Check current regulations as visa-free transit policies can change.

For travelers transiting through Chinese airports (e.g., Beijing) without leaving the international transit zone, no visa or prior QR code (health declaration) is required. If the transit requires exiting the airport or collecting/re-checking baggage, a QR code for health declaration must be completed upon arrival.