China’s National Immigration Administration (NIA) has introduced five measures aimed at simplifying the process for foreign nationals visiting the country, signaling a continued commitment to opening up to the world. The measures, effective immediately, include relaxed visa application requirements and streamlined application materials.
The sluggish recovery of international flights and the spread of disinformation against China by Western media have contributed to the slow return of foreigners to the country, according to experts. Despite these challenges, optimism prevails, with expectations of increased visits in the coming year. This surge in tourism not only holds the potential to strengthen trade and people-to-people exchanges but also offers foreigners the opportunity to experience China firsthand, dispelling any misleading narratives propagated by Western media.
Liu Haitao, an official from the NIA, unveiled the measures at a recent conference. Among these measures is the easing of conditions for foreign nationals applying for port visas, facilitating urgent business cooperation, visits, and investments. Additionally, foreign nationals transiting through designated international airports in China can enjoy visa-free transit for up to 24 hours.
Furthermore, the measures allow foreign nationals to apply for visa extensions, replacements, or reissues locally, simplifying the process for those requiring multiple entries. The requirement for extensive paper documentation for visa applications may also be waived for those with accessible accommodation registration records and business licenses.
As China’s economy continues its recovery, the NIA is actively collaborating with relevant authorities to address challenges associated with the entry of foreigners for business, study, and tourism.
Foreigners, especially those engaged in business, see these measures as a game-changer. A British national conducting business in Shanghai highlighted the potential for increased flows of travelers, workers, and commerce due to the eased entry procedures.
Border inspection authorities recorded 210 million visitors entering China in 2023, recovering to 62.9 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Forecasts suggest a further increase in 2024 with the resumption of international flights and cross-border exchanges.
The recent measures align with China’s efforts to foster new drivers of foreign trade, as demonstrated by the visa-free policy offered to six countries last year. The one-year visa-free policy for ordinary passport holders from six additional countries further exemplifies China’s commitment to facilitating international exchanges.
While acknowledging the slow recovery of international flights, experts suggest significant potential for increasing the number of foreigners visiting China. Biased anti-China rhetoric in Western media has contributed to apprehensions, hindering meaningful people-to-people exchanges. The new measures, combined with China’s welcoming attitude, aim to convey that the country embraces individuals with legitimate intentions. Experts believe that firsthand experiences in China will counteract the negative portrayal perpetuated by biased Western media.
I am a big fan of China for its excellent steps.