Transit Visas: Do You Need One?

Which countries require a transit visa for connecting flights.

Staying airside with through-checked luggage usually needs no transit visa. Entering the country (changing airport, collecting bags, overnight) usually does. The US and Canada require a visa even for airside transit.

The US has no separate transit visa — any transit requires a valid US visa or ESTA. Canada needs a transit visa unless you qualify under the China Transit Program (valid US visa, designated airlines/airports).

Singapore offers a 96-hour Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF) for Chinese citizens holding a valid Australia/Canada/Germany/Japan/New Zealand/Switzerland/UK/US visa.