China’s New Entry Policy In 2024

Introduction

With the acceleration of globalization and frequent international exchanges, China’s entry policy is constantly being adjusted to adapt to the new situation.

This article will give you a detailed explanation of China’s latest entry policy in 2024, including visa requirements, epidemic prevention measures, visa validity period, visa-free countries and regions, and return visa-related content.

1. Visa categories and requirements

China’s visa system is one of the most complex in the world, covering multiple types, each with its specific application requirements and approval conditions. In 2024, China will adjust the following common visa types:

Tourist visa: Designed for people visiting China for a short period of time. It is usually valid for 30 or 60 days and can be entered and exited multiple times for those who want to explore Chinese culture and history.
Business visa: Applicable to people entering the country for business activities, such as attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or conducting business inspections. This type of visa usually requires a detailed business plan and invitation letter.
Student Visa: Provided to foreign students who plan to study in China, allowing the holder to study within a specified period of time. The usual validity period ranges from 3 months to 1 year, depending on the applicant and application conditions. Applicants need to provide the school’s admission letter and financial proof.
Work visa: Provided to foreigners working in China, which requires strict review and application procedures. This involves employer and employee personal data, work contracts, and other relevant documents. Depending on the type of job and the employer’s requirements, a work visa may be valid for anywhere from a few months to a few years.
Family Visit Visa: Allows the holder to visit family members living in China. This type of visa usually requires proof of kinship and an invitation letter.

2. New policies for entry epidemic prevention

Currently, people coming to China can choose to take an antigen test within 48 hours before registration, but they are not required to take a nucleic acid test.

After entry, comprehensive and multiple nucleic acid tests and centralized isolation are no longer required. It only requires normal customs declaration and regular quarantine, and it can pass if the inspection is normal.

3. Visa validity period and renewal method

In the new entry policy, the validity period and renewal method of Chinese visas have also changed. According to the latest regulations, most Chinese visas are valid for 3 months or 1 year, depending on the visa type and the applicant’s nationality.

If the visa is about to expire or the stay needs to be extended, foreigners need to apply for renewal or extension to the Chinese embassy or consulate in their country.

In addition, visas obtained before the pandemic are still valid within the validity period, but it is recommended to check and confirm relevant regulations in advance to avoid unnecessary trouble.

4.Visa-free countries and regions

According to the latest policy, people from the following countries or regions can enter China without a visa:

Asia: United Arab Emirates, Belarus, Georgia, Thailand, Iran, South Korea, etc.;
Europe: Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, San Marino, Cyprus, etc.;
Africa: Mauritius, Benin, Eritrea, etc.;
America: Jamaica, Dominica, Haiti, etc.;
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, etc.

It should be noted that visa-free entry does not mean that you can stay indefinitely. The visa-free period varies according to different countries and regions and may be affected by factors such as the epidemic. Therefore, it is recommended to check and confirm the relevant regulations before departure.

5. One-year multiple-entry travel visa

Citizens of certain countries and regions, such as developing countries or countries that have mutual visa exemption agreements with China, can apply for a one-year multiple-entry travel visa.

This kind of visa allows the holder to enter and exit China multiple times, making it convenient for travelers who need to travel frequently between China and foreign countries.

For example, if an American holds this kind of visa, he can freely enter and exit China multiple times within a year, which greatly improves the convenience of entry and exit. This kind of visa is like a “green channel” for travelers who frequently travel between China and foreign countries, allowing them to travel between the two countries more smoothly.