In July, Shanghai immigration inspection authorities recorded 467, 000 inbound foreign visitors, August 5, 2026. (Photo: Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection)
In July, Shanghai immigration inspection authorities recorded 467,000 inbound foreign visitors, a year‑on‑year rise of 19.4 %. According to the Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection, 296,000 of them benefited from visa‑free entry policies and the 240‑hour visa‑free transit policy.
"China Cool" and "Chinamaxxing" have become trending new hashtags among international visitors sharing their trips on social media.
Rather than just checking off tourist attractions, many foreign travelers are venturing into local alleyways, museums and bustling street markets. They sample traditional Shanghai cuisine such as xiaolongbao, experience intangible cultural heritage crafts, and get a taste of smart city life. In doing so, they discover a China that is ancient yet modern, open‑minded and full of vitality.
Shanghai's immigration department is taking measures to ensure smooth and quick entry procedures for the foreign visitors.
In July, 314,000 passengers went through entry‑exit procedures at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, August 5, 2026. (Photo: Shanghai Hongqiao Immigration Inspection Station)
For example, at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, a "Hongxing" Volunteer Team is on site. They offer multilingual assistance to travellers, and help to keep the airport safe, orderly and running efficiently.
“When passenger numbers surge, we open and close inspection lanes flexibly and re‑deploy staff to cope with crowds,” said Zhang Yin, Team Leader of Duty Team 3 at Shanghai Hongqiao Immigration Inspection Station. “In addition, special priority lanes are always available at inspection points. Elderly, sick, disabled and pregnant travellers and other vulnerable groups receive thoughtful support for smooth clearance.”