FAQ on China's Temporary Border Closure Policy (Updated as of April 12, 2024)
Q1: When will China's temporary border closure policy be lifted?
A: As of now, the Chinese government has not released any official information regarding when the temporary border closure policy will be lifted. Given the government's stringent stance on COVID-19 prevention and control, it is anticipated that this policy will remain in place for some time.
Q2: My work visa was extended until May 2021, and a new visa was issued on April 10, 2024. Can I use this visa to exit and re-enter China?
A: No. According to Shanghai Customs regulations, only visas issued outside China (by Chinese embassies or consulates) after March 28, 2020, can be used for entry into China. For foreigners holding work visas, even if the visa was extended while they were abroad, they cannot re-enter China after exiting.
Q3: I am a foreigner, and my wife is Chinese. I have a family reunion visa issued in Shanghai one year ago that is still valid. We are currently in Italy. If my wife returns to China, can I enter with her?
A: No. Your wife, as a Chinese citizen, can enter China smoothly. However, as a foreign national holding a family reunion visa, you are currently unable to enter.
Q4: My work permit (employment certificate) and work visa are about to expire and need renewal, but I am currently abroad. How can I proceed?
A: Even if you are abroad, you can apply for a work permit renewal remotely. Once the work permit renewal is successful, you can apply for a business visa to enter China after the temporary border closure policy is lifted. Upon arrival in Shanghai, you can then convert the business visa into a work visa.
Q5: I am currently in Shanghai with a valid work visa. Can I travel to other cities in China? Will I need to quarantine upon returning to Shanghai?
A: Yes, you can travel without quarantine. Currently, only Beijing requires inbound travelers to provide a negative nucleic acid test result. Other cities have no restrictions on inter-provincial travel. However, it is advisable to check the latest policies before departure, as prevention and control measures may be adjusted at any time.
Q6: I hold a one-year multiple-entry business visa with a 60-day stay per entry. I entered China on March 10, and my stay is valid until May 9. Can I extend my stay?
A: Yes. The Chinese government has automatically extended the stay of all foreigners currently in China by 60 days. You can stay until July 9 without needing to apply for any formalities.
Q7: I am currently in Shanghai, and the 60-day automatic extension is about to expire. I do not wish to leave China. Can I extend it further?
A: It is recommended that you visit the Shanghai Exit-Entry Administration Bureau (Address: 1500 Minsheng Road, Pudong, Phone: 28951900) to apply for a humanitarian visa extension. Explain your situation, such as difficulties in booking a flight, and the staff may consider extending your stay for an additional 30 days on a case-by-case basis.
Q8: I am currently abroad and plan to work in China after the temporary border closure policy is lifted. What preparations can I make in advance?
A: It is advisable to prepare some documents that require authentication by the Chinese consulate in advance to shorten the processing time for your work permit (some consulates still offer authentication services). Required documents include:
- Bachelor's/Master's degree certificate (permanently valid after authentication)
- Criminal record clearance certificate from your home country (valid for 6 months from the date of issue)
- Reference letters for previous work experience (issued by former employers)
Q9: I am a foreign shareholder of a company in Shanghai, holding a 10-year business visa with a 90-day stay per entry. As I have not signed an employment contract with the company, I have not previously applied for a work permit or work visa, but I am interested in doing so in the future. Can I apply?
A: Yes. As a company shareholder, you are fully eligible to apply for a work permit and work visa. You can choose to apply as an employee or an investor.
Entrust CHV with Your China Visa Application
- Professional and efficient China visa application services
- Easy and convenient online purchase
- Safe, reliable, and time-saving
Contact Us
- Phone: 518-956-5673
- Email: chinahaiyavisa@gmail.com
- Website: www.chinahaiyavisa.com
