This year, with adjustments to entry and exit policies and the implementation of various visa-free policies, the number of passengers entering and leaving through Xiamen Port has steadily increased. As of June 5, the total number of passengers inspected at Xiamen Port this year has surpassed 2 million, representing an increase of nearly 110% year-on-year and reaching this milestone three months earlier than last year. The 24-hour visa-free transit policy has benefited over 38,000 passengers from more than 110 countries and regions.
"It's very convenient!" Mr. Joseph, an Irish passenger who arrived in Xiamen on June 4 aboard flight MF812 from Amsterdam, praised the visa-free policy. He was dispatched to Xiamen on a business trip due to his company's expansion and had pre-booked his flight knowing that China grants visa-free entry to Irish citizens.With increasing international exchanges and stronger trade relations, China's network of visa-free arrangements is expanding. Many foreigners, like Joseph, have benefited from visa-free entry to China. Statistics show that over 170,000 foreigners have entered China through Xiamen Port this year, up more than 235% year-on-year, with over 60,000 of them entering visa-free, accounting for about 35% of all foreign entries.
"This year, multiple international conferences and events are being held in Xiamen, and there are numerous cultural and tourism activities during holidays. As a result, the number of foreigners using the visa-free policy to visit Xiamen for business, cultural exchange, and tourism has significantly increased. In May alone, visa-free entries accounted for over 40% of all foreign entries, setting a new record," said Chen Jinlai, Director of the Border Inspection Office at Xiamen Gaoqi Border Inspection Station.
In addition to the 2 million passenger milestone, international transit operations have also seen significant growth. As of June 5, the 24-hour visa-free transit policy has benefited over 38,000 passengers from more than 110 countries and regions, with peak daily transit passenger numbers exceeding 500. Among the five newly added airports offering this convenience this year, Xiamen ranks second. Moreover, the Gaoqi Border Inspection Station has provided 144-hour and 24-hour visa-free transit services to over 15,000 inbound passengers. These convenient policies are attracting more travelers to transit through Xiamen, effectively aiding in the construction of a more efficient and smooth international passage.
