Suspension of entry by foreign nationals

27 Mar 2020 / China

Due to the rapid global spread of COVID-19, from tomorrow (28 March), China is temporarily suspending the entry into the country by foreign nationals holding valid visas or residence permits. Entry by foreign nationals with APEC business travel cards will be suspended as well.

The announcement of the suspension by the Foreign Ministry and the National Immigration Administration yesterday states that China is compelled to take this temporary measure in light of the outbreak situation and the practices of other countries.

Port visas, 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, Hainan 30-day visa-free policy, 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign cruise-group-tour through Shanghai Port, Guangdong 144-hour visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong or Macao SAR, and Guangxi 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups of ASEAN countries will also be temporarily suspended.

Entry with diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas will not be affected and foreign nationals coming to China for necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities or out of emergency humanitarian needs may apply for visas at Chinese embassies or consulates.

Entry by foreign nationals with visas issued after the announcement will also not be affected.

For further details and updates, as well as information about operations in China, contact GAC China at [email protected]

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