Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your questions about visa-free travel to Shanghai.

Visa & Entry

What are the requirements for the 144-hour visa-free entry?

Nationals of 54 countries are eligible for a visa-free stay of up to 144 hours (6 days) when entering through designated airports/ports with an onward air ticket to a third country. South Korean nationals are included.

Can I travel from Shanghai to another city without a visa?

The 144-hour visa-free transit is only valid for stays within Shanghai, Jiangsu Province, and Zhejiang Province. A visa is required if you travel outside of these areas.

What documents are required upon entry?

You will need a passport valid for more than 6 months, an airline ticket to leave for a third country (including connecting flights), and a hotel reservation confirmation. You may be asked about your purpose of stay during immigration screening, so please prepare a brief explanation.

Payment & Currency Exchange

Can I travel in China without cash?

Setting up WeChat Pay or Alipay will cover most of your payments. However, some street vendors or small shops may require cash, so be sure to have a small amount of Yuan on hand.

Can foreigners use WeChat Pay/Alipay?

Yes, starting in 2023, foreigners can also connect and use overseas credit cards. After installing the app, passport verification and card registration are required.

Where is the best place to exchange currency?

You can exchange currency in advance in Korea or use the currency exchange at Shanghai Airport. City banks are also an option, but they may require a passport and take time.

Transportation & Mobility

How do I get from the airport to the city center?

You can take the Maglev train (8 minutes, 50 yuan), subway line 2 (approximately 1 hour), or a taxi (approximately 200 yuan) from Pudong Airport to the city center. We recommend the Maglev + subway combination.

Is it difficult to use the Shanghai Metro?

It is very convenient. English guidance is well provided, and QR code payments are possible with Alipay or WeChat. Purchasing a transportation card is also a good option.

Are there any precautions to take when using a taxi?

Use official taxis (brightly colored vehicles) and make sure the meter is running. Using the DiDi app is more convenient and can help avoid fare disputes.

Internet & Communication

Can I use Google and KakaoTalk in China?

It is blocked by default. You can use it freely by installing a VPN in advance or using a Hong Kong SIM card/roaming.

Where can I purchase a SIM card?

You can purchase a Chinese SIM card in advance in Korea, or at the airport. We recommend an unlimited data plan.

Is it okay to use public WiFi?

WiFi is available in hotels, cafes, etc., but avoid important tasks for security reasons. We recommend using roaming or a SIM card.

Still can't find the answer you're looking for?

Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions.

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