An increasing number of foreign nationals choose to visit China during the Spring Festival to experience the unique charm of this cultural celebration. From January 28 (Chinese New Year’s Eve) to February 4 (the seventh day of the Chinese New Year), a total of 2,559 cross-border flights were handled by the Beijing General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection, with nearly 450,000 inbound and outbound trips recorded, up about 24.4% year-on-year.
Beijing ports already saw a surge in inbound and outbound trips even before the Spring Festival. Passenger volume exceeded 70,000 per day on January 25 and 26, setting a new single-day record. From January 24 to February 4 (the Seventh Day of the Chinese New Year), the number of outbound Chinese tourists surpassed 288,000, with a daily average of over 24,000. This marks a year-on-year increase of 26.3%. Overseas travel has become a popular choice for many Chinese people during the Spring Festival.
During the same period, more than 98,000 exit-entry trips were made by foreign nationals, representing a year-on-year rise of about 45.2%. Notably, over 16,000 entries by foreign nationals were made visa-free, accounting for 36.4% of the total number of entries by foreign nationals. With the implementation of immigration policies such as the 240-hour visa-free transit, an increasing number of foreign friends choose to visit China during the Spring Festival, eager to experience the unique charm of this cultural celebration and the rich and diverse Chinese culture.
Beijing ports witnessed a surge in inbound passenger flow starting from February 4, with 32,000 arrivals recorded on that day. The peak is expected to continue until February 6.
To ensure smooth customs clearance at the ports, the Beijing General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection utilizes flight flow forecasting programs to accurately predict daily passenger traffic. This allows for the proactive deployment of personnel and the timely opening of additional inspection channels to effectively manage sudden spikes in passenger flow. Additionally, a dedicated area for issuing 240-hour temporary entry permits has been set up at the inspection site, equipped with seating for passengers to rest while waiting, further enhancing the overall passenger clearance experience.
It is noteworthy that this year’s Spring Festival travel rush coincides with the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025. To ensure smooth customs clearance for event-related personnel and equipment, the Beijing General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection strengthened communication and collaboration with the organizing committee of the Games. After obtaining information on arrivals and departures in advance, a dedicated channel was established at the immigration inspection site specifically for the Games. Additionally, dedicated personnel were assigned to provide guidance and assist with customs procedures, ensuring the swift inspection and smooth passage of event-related personnel and equipment.
(Written by Zhang Lei)
