International travelers are continuing to face Covid-19 entry requirements, however, China has recently announced that it will simplify its visa applications for foreign nationals who have been vaccinated against COVID-19, specifically Chinese-made COVID-19 vaccines.
According to the Chinese embassy located in the Philippines, they will be returning to pre-pandemic visa requirements for those fully vaccinated. China officials have also announced streamlined visa procedures for vaccinated foreigners entering Hong Kong.
China continues to restrict entry by foreign nationals, for example, for those entering on the basis of a work assignment. For travelers who are able to be successfully admitted into China will remain subject to relevant Chinese quarantine regulations and screenings post-admission.
The Chinese Embassy in the United States will provide facilitation for visa applicants fully inoculated with Chinese COVID-19 vaccines under the following conditions:
- Vaccine must be administered at least 14 days prior to the submission of the visa application, and
- Must show proof of the vaccination certificate.
Current eligibility criteria for visa applications will be broadened as appropriate. For example, foreign family members of Chinese citizens or permanent residents, including spouse, parents, children, or close relatives, may submit a visa application for purposes of reuniting with family, or to fulfill caretaker responsibilities.
Finally, holders of valid APEC business travel cards may apply for the M visa by simply presenting the original valid APEC business travel card and an invitation letter issued by the inviting party from China.
Originally Published by Mayer Brown, March 2021
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