Mewati Sitaram – Beijing
Those people from India who were anxiously waiting for the Chinese visa, have reason to cheer. The Chinese consulate in Mumbai, Embassy of China in Delhi and all other consulates have resumed issuance of visas to tourists and other foreigners, a move that will help the country rejoin the world and leave its Covid restrictions behind.
The issuance of visa has begun effective March 15th, 2023. The news of easing restrictions comes after Beijing declared victory over the virus. Those foreigners with valid visas issued before March 28, 2020 will now be allowed to enter China. The country is adjusting its visa and entry policies to facilitate travel across the border, the National Immigration Administration announced.
It is worth mentioning that reopening to tourists is a highly symbolic sign, as China is leaving its absolutist Covid Zero regime behind. The strategy, which involved frequent lockdowns, mass testing and an effectively closed border weighed on economic growth, particularly last year. It was abruptly scrapped in early December, after protests across multiple Chinese cities and as the economic hit worsened.
H.E. Kong Xianhua, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Mumbai (Photo Mewati Sitaram)
Tens of millions of international visitors came to China each year prior to the pandemic, and its tourism industry has been hard hit by strict anti-Covid measures. According to analysts, China can expect a significant increase in international arrivals after it reopens its borders.
Business travellers have been able to apply for visas for China since January 8, when the country took the first major step toward reopening its borders by scrapping mandatory quarantine upon arrival. Since then, foreign nationals have been able to apply for business visas to travel to China for commercial activities. The Chinese citizens will also be allowed to travel on tour groups to 60 countries, up from 20 previously.
His Excellency Kong Xianhua, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Mumbai in his reply to Mumbai Messenger Newspaper said “We resumed certain visa service last year barring tourist visa. Yesterday we resumed all types of visa applications. To facilitate trips to China, starting from March 15, 2023, the policies of visa issuance and entry to China will be adjusted as per mentioned guidelines. The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in India will resume issuing various types of Chinese visas. Chinese visas that were issued before March 28, 2020 and remain within the valid period will be reactivated. For detailed visa requirements you can check the updated Notice on the Requirements for Chinese Visa Application and on the website. Those who want to apply for a visa can check the link below for complete clarification.
http://mumbai.china-consulate.gov.cn/eng/zytz/202303/t20230315_11041972.htm
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
