At a Glance

Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX) is the gateway to China's tech capital and is strategically located just across the border from Hong Kong. It's an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience mainland China's innovation hub while enjoying proximity to Hong Kong during their 240-hour visa-free transit.

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Transit Desk Location

Terminal 3, International Arrivals. Clear English signage for "240-Hour Transit".

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Processing Time

20-40 minutes. Efficient processing with helpful bilingual staff.

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To City Center

Metro Line 11 (40 min, ¥9) or taxi (30 min, ¥80-120).

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Cross-Border Access

IMPORTANT: 240-hour transit does NOT allow crossing into Hong Kong/Macau. Stay in Guangdong province only!

Airport Layout & Terminal

Shenzhen Airport primarily operates from Terminal 3 (T3), a modern, spacious terminal opened in 2013.

Terminal 3 (T3)

  • Main terminal for both domestic and international flights
  • Modern design with excellent English signage
  • Direct metro connection (Line 11)
  • 240-hour transit desk clearly marked in arrivals
  • Efficient layout - easy to navigate
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Metro Integration

Unlike many Chinese airports, Shenzhen's metro station is INSIDE the terminal building. Just follow signs for "地铁" (Metro) or "Line 11" from arrivals - takes 5 minutes to reach platform.

240-Hour Transit Process at SZX

Step 1: Arrive & Navigate

After landing, follow "International Arrivals" signs. DO NOT go to regular immigration yet.

Step 2: Find Transit Desk

Located in the arrivals hall before regular immigration. Look for signs: "24/72/144/240-Hour Visa-Free Transit". Usually has short queues.

Step 3: Document Submission

Required documents:

  • Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Onward flight ticket departing within 240 hours
  • Arrival card (filled out)
  • Accommodation details (hotel booking recommended)

Step 4: Interview & Processing

Officer reviews documents (20-40 min wait). Standard questions: purpose of visit, where staying, departure plans. Straightforward process.

Step 5: Receive Permit & Enter

Transit permit stamped in passport. Verify dates carefully. Collect luggage and welcome to Shenzhen!

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CRITICAL: Hong Kong Border Restriction

You CANNOT cross into Hong Kong or Macau on the 240-hour transit permit!

The permit is valid for Guangdong province only. Even though Shenzhen borders Hong Kong:

  • ❌ Cannot take ferry/bus to Hong Kong
  • ❌ Cannot visit Macau
  • ✅ CAN travel within Guangdong (Guangzhou, Foshan, Zhuhai, etc.)
  • ✅ CAN explore all of Shenzhen

Violating this will result in immediate deportation and possible ban.

Getting from Airport to Shenzhen

🚇 Metro Line 11 (Best Option)

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Fast & Convenient Metro

Cost: ¥7-11 (~$1-1.50) | Time: 35-45 min to city center

  • Operating Hours: 6:30am - 11:30pm
  • Key Stops: Chegongmiao (transfers), Futian, Luohu
  • Station is INSIDE terminal - just follow signs
  • Payment: cash, metro card, or Alipay/WeChat Pay
  • Connects to Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 7 for full city access

🚕 Taxi

Cost: ¥80-120 to city center | Time: 25-40 min (traffic dependent)

  • Official taxi stand outside arrivals
  • Meter-based, relatively affordable
  • Have destination in Chinese characters
  • Didi works excellently in Shenzhen (tech city!)

🚌 Airport Shuttle

Cost: ¥20-30 | Time: 50-70 minutes

  • Multiple routes to different districts
  • Budget option but less convenient than metro

Insider Tips for SZX Transit

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Making the Most of Shenzhen Transit

  • Tech-savvy city: Shenzhen is cashless - get Alipay/WeChat Pay set up. Most places accept foreign cards now.
  • English prevalence: More English speakers than most Chinese cities due to international business presence.
  • Day trip to Guangzhou: Only 30 min by high-speed train (¥75). Great way to see two cities!
  • OCT Loft & Dafen: Art districts worth visiting for creative culture.
  • Seafood in Shekou: Coastal district with excellent seafood restaurants.
  • Metro is key: Extensive, clean, fast. Get a metro card for convenience.
  • SIM card at airport: Available at arrivals. China Mobile/Unicom have tourist packages.

Where to Stay Near SZX Airport

Airport Hotels

  • Hilton Shenzhen Airport: Walking distance, ¥600-900/night
  • Crowne Plaza SZX: Free shuttle, ¥550-800/night
  • Capsule hotels in terminal: For quick rest between flights

City Center (Recommended)

30-40 min from airport by metro. Stay in:

  • Futian CBD: Modern, business district, metro hub
  • Luohu: Shopping, border area (but remember - can't cross!)
  • Nanshan: Tech hub, younger vibe, near universities
  • Shekou: Expat area, waterfront, international restaurants

Hotels range from ¥200 (budget) to ¥1000+ (luxury international chains).