China Expands Immigration Hotline Services to Include Russian, Japanese, and Korean

The National Immigration Administration (NIA) of China announced the expansion of its phone-based 12367 immigration service hotline to include Russian, Japanese, and Korean languages. This addition complements the existing Chinese and English language services, offering greater accessibility to foreign nationals in China.

The newly expanded services are available immediately. Users can select their preferred language through the voice navigation system when dialing the 24/7 hotline. For those choosing Russian, Japanese, or Korean, the platform will connect them with a translator and a call operator in a three-way voice call.

The 12367 hotline serves as a comprehensive customer service center for immigration-related inquiries, suggestions, and reporting of illegal activities. It offers real-time responses seven days a week and 24 hours a day through various channels, including phone services, a mobile app, WeChat and Alipay mini-programs, and a web portal.

This service enhancement aims to provide more convenient immigration and entry-exit services for foreign nationals in China. The platform has played a crucial role in maintaining orderly entry and exit immigration management, supporting economic and social development, and fostering international exchange.

Since its launch on April 8, 2021, the platform has handled over 14 million calls concerning immigration management, suggestions, and inquiries from users in 156 countries and regions worldwide. It maintains a 99.9 percent first-call resolution rate and a 98.6 percent satisfaction rate.

Looking ahead, the NIA is committed to continuously optimizing the 12367 service platform by expanding its service channels and features. It will proactively address the needs of domestic and international travelers for more convenient services while contributing to high-quality development and a higher level of openness.

In line with its efforts to promote openness, China has also simplified the process for foreign nationals visiting the country. Starting from November 30, 2024, ordinary passport holders from 38 countries within its visa-free arrangement can enter China without a visa for purposes such as business, tourism, family visits, exchanges and visits, and transit, with stays of no more than 30 days.