Editor's note: As the 7th China International Import Expo approaches, the International Services Shanghai presents a special column, CIIE at Your Service. This series offers practical guides to enhance your CIIE experience, covering everything from event registration and customs clearance to payment solutions and dining options. This installation focuses on entry and exit guidelines for foreign participants.

To streamline the entry and exit process for foreign participants attending CIIE, Shanghai has introduced a comprehensive range of services.

Quick and easy visa options

1. Multiple-entry visas: Foreign participants can benefit from streamlined procedures for obtaining multiple-entry visas, making it easier to enter China and participate in business activities.

2. Visa-free extensions: If you arrive visa-free but need more time to conduct business, assistance is available to help you obtain a stay or residence permit, extending your stay beyond the initial visa-free period.

3. Visa extensions for work or entrepreneurship: Planning to stay longer in Shanghai for work or to start a business? Authorities offer streamlined services to extend your visa and guide you through key procedures. You'll also receive personalized support through tailored visits and informational sessions.

4. Service station and 12367 hotline: A service station for foreign visitors at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, along with the 12367 CIIE hotline, provides professional guidance both online and on site. You can also apply for visa extensions directly at the service center, with on-site approval for quick results.

5. Green channel for port visas: Invited participants can use a green channel to apply for a port visa upon arrival at Shanghai ports. If you have not completed your visa application, you or your inviting organization can apply in advance through the port visa office, or present relevant documents like an invitation letter upon arrival to get your visa on the spot—easy and efficient!

Special services at Pudong airport

1. Dedicated CIIE channels: Pudong International Airport has established special channels exclusively for CIIE guests, ensuring a faster and smoother entry process, assisted by experienced staff.

2. Smart devices: New smart verification stations at the Pudong airport simultaneously collect passenger document information and flight details, enhancing efficiency and reducing waiting times. The airport is also equipped with manual/electric sliding gates and an intelligent video analysis system, along with widened inspection lanes to ensure seamless clearance for special passenger groups, such as those in wheelchairs or traveling with children.

3. Volunteer services: Need help with payments, communication, or travel tips? For CIIE, 100 additional multilingual volunteers will be deployed at the airport to assist with everything from payments and travel advice to explaining the 144-hour visa-free transit policy.