China's 72-hour and 144-hour visa-free transit policies have been extended to visitors from 54 countries, with Norway being the latest addition to the list, an official from the National Immigration Administration said on Friday.
The Foreign Ministry said on Monday that China will continue to improve its visa policies and actively create more favorable conditions to boost cross-border travel.
Chinese and expat professionals holding certain overseas occupational qualifications will be prioritized in receiving support, including obtaining work permits and adequate housing in Shanghai, in the latest effort announced by the city on Wednesday to attract talent from around the world to further boost its vitality.
A new version of the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card will be officially launched and issued on Dec 1.
Foreigners will be able to make appointments and inquiries related to their visas and other documents starting from Oct 9 on the government service platform of the National Immigration Administration.
China will continue to optimize visa policies to better facilitate cross-border travel as the country has seen a steady increase in inbound arrivals.
The National Development and Reform Commission, China's economic planner, released 24 new measures on Aug 16 that will help the Hongqiao International Opening-up Hub attract more multinational companies' regional headquarters.
Shanghai will build itself into a world-class cruise hub by 2035 and aim to draw in 3 million cruise tourists annually by 2025.