Mainland China: Simplification of Entry Requirements for Foreign National Visitors

The National Immigration Administration has implemented a number of changes aimed at simplifying entry requirements for foreign nationals entering Mainland China as visitors. First, foreign nationals who are unable to obtain a visa prior to arrival and are traveling to Mainland China for non-diplomatic, official business activities, visits and exchanges, investment and entrepreneurship, or to visit relatives, among other limited instances, may now apply for a port visa at a port visa authority upon arrival, provided they have an invitation letter and other required documents. Previously, port visas were mainly used for urgent humanitarian, business or rush repair work. Secondly, foreign nationals who are eligible for 24-hour visa-free transit at nine international airports in Mainland China no longer have to undergo inspection procedures. Further, foreign nationals already in Mainland China will soon be able to apply for a visa extension, renewal or reissuance at the nearest public security agency. Currently, a foreign national is required to apply for the extension in the location where the employer who sent the invitation letter for the foreign national’s initial visa is located. Additionally, foreign nationals already in Mainland China can apply for a multiple-entry visa if they can show that this is necessary. Moreover, documentary requirements for visa applications have decreased as foreign nationals whose accommodation registration records, business licenses and other information can be checked through shared governmental systems are exempt from having to present physical certificates of these documents.