China will resume issuing all types of visas for foreigners, including the tourism visa, port visa, and multiple visa-exemption policies starting from March 15, 2023. It is the latest in a series of moves to reopen its border. Inbound travelers are advised to consult with their local China embassies or consulates for more detailed requirements and procedures.
On March 13 and 14, multiple Chinese embassies released the Notice on Further Adjustment of Visa and Entry Policies for Foreigners to China, which spell out multiple important relaxations regarding visa issuance and entry of foreigners into China.
China visa resumption: What are the policy adjustments?
- Valid multi-year multiple entry visas issued before March 28, 2020 by the Chinese visa authorities abroad shall resume function.
- Foreigners may apply for all types of visas (including those for tourism and medical treatment).
- Port visas shall once again be issued in line with the relevant laws and regulations.
- The visa-exemption policy for Hainan, visa-exemption cruise policy for Shanghai, visa-exemption policy for foreigners to visit Guangdong from Hong Kong and Macao, and visa-exemption policy for ASEAN tour groups to Guilin and Guangxi shall resume operation.
These adjustments to China’s visa issuance policy will be implemented as of 0:00 Beijing Time on March 15, 2023.
