In response to China's traveler-friendly visa policies and expanding visa-free options, the Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection has undertaken comprehensive upgrades to facilitate smooth immigration clearance for international travelers, according to a news briefing held by the Shanghai border inspection authority on the sidelines of the 2024 North Bund Forum on Oct 24.

The implementation of policies such as the 144-hour visa-free transit has contributed to a notable increase in international travelers entering the country through Shanghai. Immigration inspection authorities reported that over 3.4 million international travelers have already arrived in the country via Shanghai this year, positioning the city at the forefront nationwide in terms of the number of international visitors arriving by air.

Of this influx, approximately one-third of international travelers entered the country by taking advantage of visa-free options, with an additional 32,000 travelers utilizing the 144-hour visa-free transit program. This marks substantial increases of 367 percent and 178 percent, respectively.

To efficiently manage the growing volume of travelers crossing the border, more than 10 measures have been introduced to streamline the entry and exit processes. One significant innovation includes the introduction of an online system enabling international travelers to submit their arrival cards electronically, thereby reducing the time spent in queues at border checkpoints.

In order to provide timely and effective services, the immigration inspection station has established a round-the-clock service hotline (12367) to address inquiries related to immigration services. Additionally, the "SH-immi" WeChat channel has been launched to offer guidance and up-to-date information in English regarding border entry and exit procedures.

Volunteers proficient in 13 languages, including English, Japanese, Russian, and Korean, are also readily available to provide in-person assistance and guidance to international travelers, ensuring a seamless and welcoming experience for visitors arriving in Shanghai.