We will be flying to the States via transits at both Tokyo and Taipei airports. Does anyone know if Chinese need visas ahead of time for this? We will only be at the airport for 2 hours to change planes and I assume will not need to go through customs at either airport. I would guess visas are not necessary but would appreciate confirmation from anyone in the know. Thanks

In the past you didnt need a visa for transiting in Taibei airport. I did it twice with Chinese collegues no problems.

I think as long as you dont leave the airport and are just transiting you dont need a local visa. This goes for China too.

Hey Colin,

As far as I know, visas are only required when you are entering a country; having a layover or transit at an airport is not considered entering unless you actually go thorough customs. This is true of all countries I believe.

On a side note, Taipei does not require a visa for US citizens provided you stay for 30 days or less. You just have to go through customs and they will stamp your passport which is good for 30 days.