Chinese to Schengen countries to submit biometric data

Chinese visitors take pictures at Stockholm's City Hall in Sweden. European countries have become popular destinations for Chinese tourists. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Chinese must submit biometric data at Schengen countries' consulates or application centers, most of which are in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong's provincial capital, Guangzhou, Chinese online travel-booking giant Ctrip explains.

Germany also has visa-application centers in Sichuan's provincial capital, Chengdu, and Liaoning's provincial capital, Shenyang.

It'll open more in major cities after receiving Chinese authorities' nod.

Spain's consul general in Beijing, Joaquin de Aristegui Laborde, says his country also plans new centers in major cities to make biometric-data gathering easier. Its plan is also pending Chinese approval.

"You only have to do it once in five years," he says.

"It's very accessible. It may seem a bit uncomfortable at the beginning, but it's better for the applicants."

Spain has also upgraded its embassy in Beijing and consulates in Shanghai and Guangzhou to provide biometrics collection.

They're working with travel agencies to accommodate their needs and ensure procedures go smoothly.

Aristegui says Spain issues or denies visas for Chinese within 48 hours on average.

"Chinese travelers love to visit Madrid, Barcelona and Andalusia due to their picturesque views, cultural heritage, delicious cuisines and shopping," he says.

"In the future, there will be more activities between China and Spain. And we will increase the frequency of flights and open flights to more Chinese cities."

Such marketing is Europe hoping to make its imprint on Chinese tourists.