The Chinese embassies in Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Pakistan, Vietnam, Republic of Belarus, Gabon and so on will streamline visa application procedure for foreigners who have been inoculated with China-produced vaccines, in an effort to resume normal personnel exchanges in the post-epidemic era, according to the notices issued by the embassies recently.

Starting from March 15th, people visiting China for business purposes and have been inoculated with Chinese COVID-19 vaccines can prepare materials and apply for visas according to requirements in pre-epidemic times, said a notice issued by the Chinese Embassy in Japan.

Screenshot of the notice issued by the Chinese Embassy in Japan

Foreign family members of Chinese citizens or permanent residents who go to China for emergency humanitarian needs, including spouses, parents, children and other close relatives, if the reason for visiting China is a family reunion, visiting relatives, funeral or caring for critically ill patients, can apply for visas once their vaccination certificates are obtained.

 Screenshot of the notice issued by the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan

Foreign nationals with APEC Business Travel Cards can also resume visa applications with invitation letters, according to the statements by the embassies in Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

On March 14th, China simplified its visa policy for foreigners applying to enter the Chinese mainland via Hong Kong who have received China-produced COVID-19 vaccines.

 Screenshot of the notice issued by the Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong

The Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region issued a notice on March 12th exempting foreign visa applicants who have received a Chinese vaccine from having to provide health certification. Chinese experts said it can be seen as a trial for China to explore vaccine visas and hopefully can be expanded to other parts of the world.

Source: Global Times & GDToday