Don't need a visa to depart Shanghai Pu Dong Airport for a Hotel

[watgate]

I have a 15 hour layover in Shanghai Pu Dong Airport and would like to get a hotel for the night outside the airport. Is it correct that you don't need a temporary visa to leave the airport to get a hotel close by the airport?

[TheSiemReaper]

No. If you pass through immigration - you need a visa. Depending on your nationality; you may be able to get a visa on arrival for 48/72 hours (can't remember which) but no visa = no hotel.

[Upnotover]

Have a google of "China 72 and 144 hour visa-free transit".

[allane]

A few years ago in Beijing, they stapled a piece of paper in my passport which allowed me to leave the airport. I think it was good for 24 hrs., and I think it was free.

[saakura]

There are two hotels inside the airport which i use regularly, they are both directly connected fron arrivals & departures by a pedestrian walkway, advance booking is very strongly recommended. You must possess a visa and clear immigration and customs.

[watgate]

I am confused now. I googled China 72 and 144 hour visa free transit and it said you can leave Shanghai PuDong Airport without the need of a visa providing you could show the authorities you have a flight continuing to a 3rd country. Now I am being told you need a visa to use 2 hotels inside the airport. Talk about conflicting info.

[asanee]

Use brains and READ: it will depend on your nationality. Its in general pretty unwise to ask about visa/entry rules etc without stating yours. That linked site will provide all info. NOte: you mostly have to show a printed ticket/travel itinerary to the immigration officials and may need to use a separate gate/post for it. Ask before joing long lines.