For two years, Jian, whose real name is something else, has been in Borås and worked for a company.

Now the work is over and he wants nothing better than to go back home.

But despite the fact that over a month has passed, he has not managed to get a ticket.

The work permit has expired, and the Chinese embassy has, according to Jian, just said: Wait. 

- It feels really hard.

Many in the same situation

The reason many Chinese are unable to return is strict rules due to the corona pandemic.

There have been no flights from Sweden to China so far this year, according to Swedavia.

That makes sense for Jian, who in pure desperation contacted SVT Nyheter Väst.

He is currently in Borås without a permit and believes that there are several hundred Chinese in the same location as him, many around Gothenburg and Stockholm.

They support each other in a chat group.

- We can not stay here forever.

We are now a few hundred who can not take us home.

For about half, the visa has expired.

The embassy confirms

The Chinese embassy confirms by e-mail that it is Chinese students and workers who have not been able to return and writes that they "take this seriously", but can not answer when or how the Chinese could go home.

Or exactly how many people are involved.

Instead, they write that Chinese authorities will take up air traffic "at an appropriate time, based on the covid situation in China", and appeal, in their response, to Swedish authorities to make it easier for Chinese citizens, for example by extending residence permits and visas.

Feeling powerless

Jian says that it is also not possible to trust a transfer via another country, as air traffic to China is unstable from other countries as well.

Covid tests and a special health certificate before departure are also required, which must be applied for through a Chinese embassy.

He may risk being trapped elsewhere, then without a network of contacts.

- I'm powerless and can do nothing.

It feels sad.