According to the Shaanxi General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection, Xi'an port witnessed a significant surge in inbound and outbound traffic, reaching over 1.3 million people as of Dec 19, marking a 121-percent increase year over year.

More than 9,600 inbound and outbound flights were processed, reflecting a 76-percent growth compared to the previous year.

Staff members of the Shaanxi General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection check the passageway for travelers. [Photo/Xi'an Daily]

This surge is attributed to China's expanding network of visa-free agreements, which have made travel easier for foreign nationals. As international flights gradually resume and new routes are added, Xi'an port has become a prominent gateway for global travelers.

Xi'an has also gained significant recognition as a prime international destination due to hosting major events, including the 8th Silk Road International Expo and the 14th China-US Tourism Leadership Summit.

According to Lyu Bin, director of the border inspection department at the Shaanxi General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection, "As of Dec 19, over 129,000 foreign nationals have entered Xi'an this year, a 140-percent year-on-year increase, with more than 53,000 utilizing visa-free entry, representing an eightfold growth."

To ensure seamless border processing, the station has enhanced passenger flow monitoring, dynamically adjusted staffing levels, and opened additional inspection lanes during peak times. A strict policy ensures that Chinese citizens wait no more than 30 minutes for processing. Close coordination with airlines and Xi'an Xianyang International Airport has supported increased and more frequent international routes.

The station has also provided continuous assistance via the 12367 immigration service hotline, which is available 24/7 and has handled over 5,000 calls this year, with a 100-percent satisfaction rate.