Starting July 1, Shanghai Pudong International Airport will operate 24-hour customs, immigration, and security clearance for all departing international, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan flights.
This major upgrade transforms Pudong into one of the world’s most traveler-friendly hubs, catering to night owls, early risers, and those with tight connections.
What Are 24-Hour Border Services?
24-hour border services mean every outbound processing facility—from customs declaration counters and immigration checkpoints to security lanes, self-service check-in kiosks, and tax-refund counters—remains open around the clock.
Whether you land on a red-eye flight or have a connecting flight at dawn, you can clear all formalities any time after check-in and baggage drop.
Benefits include:
- Unrestricted access to customs and immigration staff
- Continuous operation of security screening lanes
- Full support at self-service kiosks for check-in and baggage tags
- 24/7 tax-refund processing for eligible travelers
Why This Matters for Travelers
Enhanced Flexibility
Previously, international departures in Pudong were bound by specific border-clearance windows.
With the new 24-hour service, you’re in control of your schedule. Late-night and early-morning flights no longer pose a risk of missing clearance cutoffs.
Reduced Waiting Times
Spreading passenger flow evenly across 24 hours cuts peak–time bottlenecks.
Shorter queues at immigration and security mean more time for shopping, dining, or resting in the lounges before your flight.
Building on the Domestic Pilot Program
Pudong’s decision follows the successful pilot of 24-hour domestic departure security screening.
Launched in Terminal 1 before the May Day holiday and expanded to Terminal 2 on May 11, the pilot introduced a “same-day flight, same-day screening” model.
After checking in and dropping baggage, domestic travelers can clear security any time before departure—day or night—boosting convenience for early or late flights.
Key outcomes of the pilot:
- High passenger satisfaction rates
- Smoother traffic flow in terminals
- Proof of concept for round-the-clock border clearance
Peak Summer Travel and Route Expansions
The new border-clearance hours coincide with the summer peak travel season.
From July 1 to August 31, Pudong and nearby Hongqiao airports are set to handle 150,000 flights—a 5 percent increase year-on-year—and serve about 24.55 million passengers, with Pudong handling 15.87 million of them.
Table: New and Expanded Routes This Summer
| Category | Route Type | Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic | New Flights | Kashgar, Yining, Hotan, Kuqa, Manzhouli |
| International | New Services | Almaty (Kazakhstan), Kumamoto (Japan), Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia) |
| International | Resumed Service | Copenhagen (Denmark) |
| International | Increased Frequency | London (UK), Vladivostok (Russia), Hanoi (Vietnam), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) |
How to Make the Most of 24/7 Border Clearance
Follow this step-by-step guide to breeze through the airport:
Pre-Check Documents
- Confirm your passport validity and visa requirements.
- Have tax-refund receipts and boarding pass ready on your phone or printed out.
Arrive Early—Or Late
- With 24/7 clearance, you can avoid peak hours.
- Consider traveling during off-peak windows (e.g., 2 AM–6 AM) for the fastest processing.
Use Self-Service Kiosks
- Save time by printing bag tags and boarding passes.
- Drop off checked luggage immediately after tagging.
Head to Immigration
- Present passport and boarding pass.
- Automated e-gates are available for eligible travelers.
Security Screening
- Liquids and electronics follow standard carry-on rules.
- Look for dedicated lanes if you have pre-check or fast-track status.
Tax-Refund Counter
- Present purchase receipts and passport.
- Claim refunds before heading to the gate.
Relax and Enjoy
- Duty-free shopping, lounges, and dining options are open 24/7 in key terminals.
- Check airport maps or apps for late-night services.
Expert Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Pack Strategically: Place liquids in easy-access compartments for quicker screening.
- Download the Airport App: Real-time gate, lounge, and queue updates keep you informed.
- Join Frequent-Flyer Programs: Many airlines offer fast-track clearance and preferred security lanes.
- Stay Charged: Charging stations are scattered throughout terminals—carry a power bank for peace of mind.
- Plan Lounge Access: Some lounges require advance booking; check availability for late-night hours.
Conclusion
The 24-hour border services at Shanghai Pudong International Airport mark a game-changer for global travelers. By eliminating time constraints on customs, immigration, and security clearance, Pudong offers unprecedented flexibility and smoother journeys.
Coupled with a surge in new and resumed routes, it’s never been easier to explore China and beyond around the clock.
Plan your next trip with confidence: embrace off-peak flight times, leverage self-service kiosks, and stay informed with real-time airport updates. With border services open 24/7, your international travel has never been so convenient.
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