Some foreigners in China reported that due to the impact of the epidemic, their visas to China were about to expire but they were unable to leave China.
In response, Liu Haitao, director of the Department of Border Inspection and Management of the National Immigration Administration, organized the joint prevention and control mechanism of the State Council on 1st March.
According to the press conference, special flexible policies have been introduced.
Below you can read the most important policies introduced:
During the epidemic prevention and control period, the period of stay of foreigners in China may be extended automatically for two months. Within the extended period, there is no need to go through the extension procedure anymore, and you can still stay in China legally or leave the country normally;
For Chinese and foreigners involved in epidemic prevention work (medical assistance, drug development, academic exchange, etc.), local public security exit-entry administrations provide 24-hours expedited visa application services;
- For foreigners who come to China to participate in the exchange and cooperation in epidemic prevention and anti-epidemic or to engage in important business and scientific research activities, if they come to China in a hurry and cannot obtain a visa in advance, they can apply for a port visa at the port of entry.
In order to effectively reduce the movement and concentration of people and reduce the risk of cross-infection, the State Administration of Immigration has introduced “Internet + Government Affairs” service measures.
Foreigners in China, like Chinese citizens, can enjoy online applications, mailed applications, and Real-time inquiry service for the adjustment of immigration policy at home and abroad on the official website of the State Administration of Immigration.