China has recently implemented a visa-free policy targeting ordinary passport holders from Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg, in a move aimed at bolstering international connectivity and fostering exchange.
The introduction of this policy was warmly received at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, where the inaugural beneficiaries arrived aboard Flight CA436 from Budapest on March 14. Among the 26 passengers onboard, 11 individuals were the first to reap the benefits of this initiative, seamlessly entering China sans visa requirements.
For Kapornai Istvan, a Hungarian business traveler, the policy signifies a significant simplification in his frequent journeys between Hungary and China, effectively easing the complexities associated with international trade travel. Valid until November 30, this policy allows travelers from the specified nations to partake in business activities, tourism, family visits, or transit within China for up to 15 days without the need for a visa. This strategic move reflects China’s commitment to fostering tourism and trade, following its unilateral visa exemptions extended to nations like France and Germany.
The visa exemption policy has precipitated a notable upsurge in international travel through Chongqing’s gateways. Evidenced by the influx of over 7,000 foreign nationals entering visa-free via Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport since the beginning of the year, representing a staggering 650% increase from the previous year, tourism and business engagements stand as the primary purposes of their visits.
Serving as a pivotal gateway, Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport boasts 21 international routes linking Chongqing with major global hubs such as London, Paris, Sydney, and Madrid. Spanning across continents, these routes reach Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and various Asian regions. With plans underway to introduce additional direct flights, including service to Milan, the airport is poised to further bolster Chongqing’s global integration and facilitate international collaboration.
Wu Dan, Vice Captain of the Chongqing Border Inspection’s second duty team, elucidated the multifaceted benefits of this policy shift. Beyond expediting the visa acquisition process for travelers, it has significantly enhanced border control efficiency, offering a more streamlined entry experience compared to traditional visa-dependent procedures.
In anticipation of sustained growth in passenger numbers, Chongqing Border Inspection has implemented proactive measures, including the forecast of flight traffic, deployment of multilingual personnel, dynamic adjustment of inspection channels, refinement of border examination protocols, and intensified guidance for visa-exempt visitors. These efforts are aimed at ensuring a secure and efficient entry experience at Chongqing’s thresholds.
