Wuxi Shuofang Airport starts 240-hour visa-free transit service on Dec 17. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

China has expanded its visa-free policy to add 21 ports, including Wuxi Shuofang Airport, according to the National Immigration Administration on Dec 17. The maximum duration of stay for foreign nationals eligible for visa-free transit has been extended from the previous 72 hours and 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days).

Wuxi, serving as an important city in Jiangsu's efforts to open up to the outside world, has attracted a large number of foreign individuals to do business, work, study, and travel. Expats and international enterprises have emerged as vital contributors to the city's economic development, cultural exchanges, and social progress.

At the beginning of this year, Wuxi published 10 measures to facilitate inbound tourism, and through the proactive efforts of the city, Wuxi Shuofang Airport has been officially recognized as a port for 240-hour visa-free transit.

To better serve international travelers, the Wuxi Immigration Inspection Station at the airport has set up a dedicated area with an exclusive channel for visa-free transit. It also arranged staff members with multilingual skills to provide consultation and guidance, ensuring smooth customs clearance for transit visa-free passengers.

In cases of urgent need, reasonable circumstances, or force majeure, foreigners who need to stay in China beyond the time limit or outside the authorized stay area can apply for a stay permit from the exit and entry department of Wuxi's public security bureau.

In addition, Wuxi Shuofang Airport will also establish a service station for inbound tourism, offering services such as scenic spot reservations, applying for mobile phone cards, and using mobile payment, continuously enhancing the convenience for international visitors.