Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei to offer 144 hours visa-free

[Photo by Jia Chenglong/Asianewsphoto]

The cities of Beijing and Tianjin, along with Hebei province, will allow 144-hour visa-free entry for nationals from certain countries and regions by the end of 2017, a vice-mayor of Beijing said on Thursday.

The move is part of the nation's long-term commitment to modernize and upgrade its service industry.

Cheng Hong, a vice-mayor of Beijing, said the policy will extend the visa-free time for travelers from some countries who want to visit the three areas. Currently, the maximum stay in Beijing and Tianjin is 72 hours.

The policy adjustment will facilitate "the free circulation of resources" in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Cheng said.

In 2016, Shanghai, joined by Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, took the lead in permitting 144-hour visa-free entry, which gave foreign visitors from 51 countries and regions more than enough time to travel or attend conferences in the region.

Cheng made the remarks at a news conference on a comprehensive pilot plan, which the State Council promulgated in late July, to further open up the capital's service industry.

Under the plan, the local authorities will reduce investment restrictions in major service sectors, including aviation, culture and arts, publication, banks, legal services, tourism and medical research and development.

By streamlining regulations, Beijing expects to offer one-stop service to foreign investors considering the capital by the end of this year.