Chongqing's skyline gleams through the night. [Photo/VCG]

Southwest China's Chongqing municipality started the 144-hour visa-free transit service from Dec 1 to provide convenience for passengers engaged in short-term visits from all over the world.

Passengers from 53 countries can enjoy the visa-free service with their valid international travel certificates and tickets to a third country or region when arriving at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport or Wanzhou Wuqiao Airport.

Chongqing has equipped the airports with special areas to issue temporary entry permits. Staff members are able to provide English, Russian, German, Japanese, French, and Korean language services to help overseas passengers with their entry.

In addition, a Chinese/English bilingual hotline is available for passengers to consult the visa-free transit service.

The service is expected to attract more international and transit passengers, as well as boost Chongqing's tourism development.