Xiamen starts 72-hour visa-free stays

A passenger from South Korea (L) have his passport checked in Xiamen,southeast China's Fujian province, April 2, 2015. The first group of passengers with a 72-hour visa-free stay in Xiamen reached Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport Thursday. Xiamen started to allow 72-hour transit visa exemptions for foreign nationals from 51 countries and regions from Wednesday.[Photo/Xinhua]

The decision was made by the Chinese State Council last December and will allow travelers from 51 foreign nations to visit Xiamen for 72 hours without a visa, providing they are en route to a third country or region via the Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport.

Foreigners are required to bring valid international travel documents when going through Xiamen customs.

Industry insiders believe that the policy will provide a tourism boost for Xiamen and propel the development of the city as an international flight hub. More opportunities and cooperation concerning business, traveling and culture are expected to be brought to the city as a result of the new policy.

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