Originally Posted by
EmailKid
CANNOT leave the airport without geting a transit visa :-: Well, unless you have a China visa that is.
But the transit visa is no big deal for those holding western passports and it's free ^ Not sure what particular flavor of "non-preferred" you are, but the list of those allowed transit visa is fairly long.
EmailKid
First bold (by me): Please, do not use the term "transit visa" as it is incorrect, confusing, and misleading. China, at airports for international connections, is giving a "Transit Without Visa" which is legally completely different and has different restrictions and implications for the traveler. Always use the correct terminology to avoid misunderstandings on the forum. The TWOV is a limited-use entry stamp only, not a visa.
A Chinese "G" transit visa is a REAL visa and in most cases, must be obtained in advance, same as a tourist, business or other category of visa.
Second bold (by me): There is no "list" for regular Transit Without Visa. ALL nationalities are allowed 24 hours to make an international connection and at all Chinese intl airports. The "list" is for nationalities who are allowed extended 48 hours' TWOV at SHA/PVG. Another important distinction. People often get confused that only passport holders on the "list" are allowed TWOV at all, and that is not the case.