Multi-Year, Multi-Entry Visas
The Immigration Inspection Frontier at Shanghai Pudong International Airport has confirmed that multi-year multiple-entry visas issued before 26 March 2020, are still suspended and not valid for entering China.
South Korean and Japanese Nationals – More Details
Meanwhile, South Korean and Japanese nationals are still eligible to enter China, if they hold the following types of valid visa/permit:
- Chinese visa issued after 28 March 2020;
- Chinese residence permit (for work, attending to personal affairs, family reunion and study purposes);
- Chinese Green Card.
South Korean nationals who wish to lodge an application for short-term visas (e.g., business (M) visa, trade/study exchanges (F) visa, and personal matter (S) visa) at the Chinese embassy in South Korea are required to submit an invitation letter issued by the relevant government authorities and bodies.
Considerations for Travel into China During New Year Holiday Period
In view of these updates, we remind individuals who wish to travel in the upcoming holiday season take the following into considerations when planning for their journeys:
- Foreign nationals who hold multi-year multiple-entry visas issued before 26 March 2020, should apply for a new visa based on their purpose for entering China.
- South Korean and Japanese nationals who plan to travel to China on short-term visas in the coming month should monitor the status of Chinese visa applications and plan their travel accordingly.
- International travellers who plan to enter China for commercial activities in the coming month are also advised to check on the operating hours of the overseas Chinese embassy / consulate in their jurisdiction during the Chinese New Year Holiday, and if any new requirements have been introduced in regards to Chinese visa applications.
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It is recommended that travellers to China check travel rules for updates, as changes may occur.
The adjustments in China's policies represent welcome steps to opening up China for the resumption of inbound and outbound travel under eased restrictions and a step-up in processing around visa and entry and exit pass applications.
What we have described is extensive and significant in breadth and scope. If travellers have questions or concerns, they may wish to consult with their travel agent, global-mobility professional, and/or immigration counsel, or a member of the Immigration team with KPMG in China (see the Contact Us section below).
We will continue to closely monitor these and future regulatory updates and will endeavour to keep readers of GMS Flash Alert informed.