- The 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) runs November 5–10, 2025 in Shanghai. To keep participation smooth and efficient, the Shanghai Public Security Bureau (PSB) is rolling out 20 new measures across five areas: immigration, enterprise services, traffic management, venue access, and registration/accreditation. These upgrades prioritize faster entry, simpler documentation, and on-site convenience for international exhibitors, buyers, and visitors.
1. Smarter immigration and visa services
- Electronic Port Visa for CIIE invitees: For the first time, Shanghai-based enterprises and organizations can apply online for e-port visas on behalf of foreign exhibitors and buyers via the official CIIE website or the city’s “Government Online-Offline Shanghai (一网通办)” platform. The Electronic Port Visa Confirmation Letter enables paperless processing, no passport submission, no sticker visa, and expedited customs clearance at designated ports.
- Support for non‑Shanghai exhibitors: Organizations from other provinces/municipalities that invite foreign participants can also use the port visa channel.
- Group tourist visas for international visitors: Overseas tour groups attending or observing the Expo can apply online via domestic travel agencies without appointments.
- Fast-track for returning participants and pros: Streamlined documentation and shorter processing for past exhibitors and professional visitors; multiple‑entry visas are available where eligible.
- On‑site document services: The Service Station for Overseas People inside the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) offers on‑the‑spot help with stay/residence permits and document extensions/renewals; Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan participants benefit from expedited replacement services.
2. Enterprise‑focused facilitation
- Integrated Immigration Service Package: An upgraded service suite for global talent and enterprises, including 24/7 smart visa services for Hong Kong and Macao via the Overseas Talent Direct Connection Platform.
- Stay extension for visa‑exempt arrivals: Visitors eligible for visa exemption can apply to convert their temporary stay into a short‑term residence permit to continue business activities beyond the exemption period.
- ID system integration: Holders of China’s Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card can now use it directly in the official CIIE registration system, simplifying identity verification.
3. Registration and accreditation upgrades
- Credential reuse: Badges from the 5th–7th editions can be reactivated, cutting wait times and production costs.
- Later registration deadline: The cutoff is extended to October 31.
- Urgent registration green channel: A temporary fast track is available for last‑minute personnel changes.
- Faster credential production: Applications submitted by October 30 are processed within 5 working days; those received after October 31 are turned around in 48 hours.
4. Venue access and internal mobility
- Additional security checkpoints: New e‑gates at Hall 4.1H and 8.1H (Gates 12 & 13) will operate during off‑peak hours to shorten queues.
- Hotel e‑gate linkage: A new electronic verification channel at the InterContinental Shanghai Hongqiao NECC Hotel lets registered hotel guests enter the exhibition halls without leaving the premises—ideal for overseas delegations based at the hotel.
- More parking and drop‑offs: 2,803 parking spaces are available inside the NECC (+5% vs. last year), including 900 spaces reserved for exhibitor vehicles in the North Square. The number of on‑site shuttle carts and “drop‑and‑go” points is also being expanded to improve inter‑hall transit.
5. Traffic management, accessibility, and police–enterprise support
- Controlled zone and traffic guidance: From November 4–10, authorities will maintain a 2–3 km² controlled zone around the NECC daily from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with optimized routes and signage to minimize disruption.
- Micro‑mobility access: E Yinggang East Road will no longer restrict non‑motorized vehicles, making it easier for nearby residents and visitors to reach metro stations and shuttle routes by bike or e‑scooter.
- Ride‑hailing and real‑time navigation: Designated “drop‑and‑go” zones will remain available; Gaode (Amap) and Baidu Maps will display “Police Traffic Alerts” to help drivers choose optimal drop‑off points and balance parking demand.
- On‑site “blue whale” business support: The “Blue Whale Business Support Station” will provide incident reporting, business consulting, and security guidance to exhibitors.
- Dedicated police–enterprise channel: A new CIIE Security Service Section on the PSB website collects feedback in real time; the CIIE customer hotline includes a “Police–Enterprise Fast Track” column for priority responses to enterprise needs.
