6 Entry & Exit Facilitation Measures Launched for 8th CIIE

As international trade cooperation deepens and cross-border exchanges grow more frequent, a increasing number of overseas exhibitors and visitors are traveling to Shanghai for the China International Import Expo (CIIE).

Building on practices from previous editions – especially last year's 7th CIIE – the Shanghai Public Security Bureau has rolled out an upgraded "service package" of entry-exit facilitation measures.

Pudong airport welcomes peak arrivals of exhibitors with one-stop customs clearance for the 7th CIIE.

These initiatives are tailored to better meet the specific needs of international participants.

1. E-Port Visa Access for Foreign Exhibitors Invited by Shanghai-Based Organizers

For the first time, the e-port visa policy is being extended to cover the CIIE. Foreign exhibitors invited by Shanghai-based organizers can apply for such visa through the "Government Online-Offline Shanghai" service.

The process is fully online, requires no paper documents or physical passport submission, eliminates the need for visa stickers and allows for fast-track customs clearance.

2. Port Visa Access for Foreign Exhibitors Invited by Companies Outside Shanghai

Foreign nationals invited by companies participating in the CIIE but based outside of Shanghai – who have not had time to apply for a visa abroad and intend to enter China via a Shanghai port – may submit their application materials directly to a Shanghai port visa office, either by themselves or through their inviting company, to obtain a corresponding port visa upon arrival.

3. Group Port Visas for Overseas Visitors Traveling to the CIIE in Tour Groups

Ordinary overseas visitors traveling to China as part of a group to attend the CIIE can apply for a group tourism port visa through a local travel agency. The entire process can be completed online, with no need for appointments.

Chinese and international journalists at the media center of the 7th CIIE

4. Streamlined Document Requirements for Returning Exhibitors and Professional Visitors

The port visa instructions published by the CIIE bureau on the official CIIE website will serve as the basis for the Shanghai Public Security Bureau to streamline procedures. Returning exhibitors and professional visitors will benefit from reduced documentation requirements, a simplified application process and easier access to multiple-entry visas.

5. Enhanced Service Capacity of Service Station for Overseas People of Shanghai Public Security Bureau in NECC

Foreign exhibitors with business, trade or negotiation needs can receive on-site assistance with applying for stay or residence permits. Exhibitors from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan can access expedited services for renewing or reissuing their entry-exit documents.

6. Integrated Support via the Shanghai Public Security International Talents Direct Connection Platform in the Hongqiao CBD

The platform will proactively connect with domestic and international talent to provide entry-exit and other public security-related services.

During the CIIE, it will organize "Experience the CIIE" integration activities for key institutions and talents.

In addition, it will offer 24-hour self-service machines for Hong Kong and Macau travel permit endorsements to support Chinese companies participating in the expo and looking to expand abroad.

Source: City News Service