Beijing, 14 March 2023 (GNP): For the first time since the COVID-19 broke out three years ago, China will start granting visas to visitors from other countries once again.
The significant loosening of restrictions follows Beijing’s declaration of the virus’s defeat and its pullback from a zero-Covid approach, which has been detrimental to its economy.
Chinese visa applications can now be processed by foreign offices as of March 15.
Cruise ships will once again be able to enter Shanghai and Hainan Island without a visa. The ability of tour groups from Hong Kong and Macau to enter without a visa will also be restored.
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Also, valid visas issued before China closed its borders to the outside world on March 28, 2020, will once again be honored.
Prior to the pandemic, China welcomed tens of millions of foreign tourists annually, but the country’s tourism sector has been severely impacted by stringent anti-COVI policies.
But after it reopens its borders, observers say the nation can anticipate a big rise in foreign arrivals.
