China's Foreign Ministry and National Immigration Administration announced on Wednesday that foreign nationals holding valid Chinese residence permits in three categories are allowed to enter the country from September 28 with no need to apply for new visas, an adjustment six months after the country took a proactive measure to restrict border entry to curb the surge of imported COVID-19 infections.
Effective September 28, foreign nationals holding valid Chinese residence permits for work, personal matters and reunion are allowed to enter China with no need to apply for new visas.
If the three categories held by foreign nationals expired after March 28, they may apply for new visas by presenting their expired residence permits and documents to Chinese embassies or consulates, on the condition that the purpose of the holders' visit to the country remains unchanged, the statement said.
The authorities noted that those foreigners shall strictly abide by Chinese regulations on epidemic prevention and control.
The new adjustment is in view of the current COVID-19 situation, which is basically under control in China, and the need for epidemic prevention and control, it said.
The statement also said while ensuring effective epidemic control, the Chinese government will continue to resume people-to-people exchanges in a step-by-step and orderly manner.