China Visa Update

China focus looks at the New china visa issuing Regulations that have caused a stir amongst China’s foreign business community.

The recent announcement of new issuing regulations for China visas has kept many foreign businessmen surprised and guessing. The fact that business visas (F class) now have to be applied for in the applicant’s home country as well as prolonged processing times and additional documentary proof complicate the visa process significantly. According to a flash survey conducted by the German Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, the majority of respondents expect this to have a substantial negative impact on their businesses. It is, however, important to note that China’s new visa regulations are not stricter or more troublesome than those of many other developed countries. So it is not the change itself that mostly concerns foreign businesses, but the unexpected nature of the measure which reflects a general unpredictability of actions from Beijing.

But what are the reasons for this new policy? Security concerns of the government in view of the upcoming Olympics are certainly one part of the answer. Beijing simply wants greater control over who will be in the country when the world’s eyes are on China. On the other hand, this might also be a measure to prevent foreigners from living and working in China on F visas and thus avoid paying taxes.

• NEW CHINA VISA REGULATIONS AT A GLANCE

• Type of visa: Most new regulations apply to the issuing of F visas. This type of visa is used by most foreigners to conduct business with partners or clients in China during their visits.

• Application process: Applications have to be submitted to the China embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country. Exception: Foreigners who are Hong Kong residents can apply in the SAR. The minimum processing time is four days. The issuing of rush or express visa has been suspended.

• Documentary proof: An original invitation letter by the Chinese government ministry (usually at the local foreign affairs office) has to be applied for by a locally registered entity. This could be the company’s Chinese WFOE or a local Chinese company. Representative offices don’t count as locally registered entities and cannot apply for the letter. In addition to the letter, documents confirming a hotel booking and a return flight have to be submitted.

• Validity & entry terms: All new F visas entitle the holder to a single or double entry and are only valid for 30 days. The option of multiple entries has been suspended. Persons who stay in China for longer than 90 days continuously or more than 180 days in one calendar year should apply for a Z visa, which can then be changed to a residency permit.

• Due to inconsistent information from official sources and different implementation practices, the information above is given under reserve. Fiducia Management Consultants recommends to obtain updated information on China visas at your home country’s Chinese embassy or Consulate.

» Latest News Index
» Subscribe Fiducia Newsletter