These changes reflect China’s commitment to opening up and supporting high-quality development. Here’s an overview of the key policies.

New Online Processing for Exit-Entry Documents

Starting May 6, 2024, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) will allow applications for new exit-entry documents and the renewal of existing ones to be completed entirely online. This policy covers various documents such as passports and exit-entry permits for Hong Kong and Macao. By moving these processes online, the NIA aims to reduce the time and effort required for individuals to obtain these documents, enhancing the overall efficiency of immigration services. This policy is particularly beneficial for residents living in remote areas, who previously had to travel to specific offices to complete these procedures. The pilot program will be introduced in the following cities: Beijing, Tianjin, Shenyang, Harbin, Shanghai, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Hefei, Xiamen, Jinan, Qingdao, Zhengzhou, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Chongqing, Chengdu, Kunming, Xi’an.

Visa-Free Entry for Cruise Tourists

Effective May 15, 2024, foreign tourist groups arriving in China via cruise ships will be able to enter the country without a visa. This new policy is designed to boost tourism by making it easier for international travellers to visit Chinese coastal cities. According to the policy, any foreign tourist group consisting of two individuals or more arriving on a cruise ship for a trip organized and handled by a Chinese travel agency may enter as a whole into China without visas at one of the cruise ports located in the 13 following cities: Tianjin, Dalian, Shanghai, Lianyungang, Wenzhou, Zhoushan, Xiamen, Qingdao, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Beihai, Haikou and Sanya.

The visa-free entry encourages tour operators to include Chinese ports in their itineraries, thus promoting cultural exchanges and economic benefits through increased tourism.

Multiple-Entry Visas and Simplified Visa Processes

Foreign nationals who need to frequently enter and exit China can now apply for multiple-entry visas. The application process has been simplified, with less documentation required if the information can be verified through official channels. Please refer to this article for more information.

New Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card

China has introduced a new version of the Foreign Permanent Residence Identity Card, known as the “Five-Star Card.” This card offers enhanced data security and can be used as a standalone identification document in most situations, such as booking travel tickets, opening bank accounts, and registering for various services. 

Overall, these changes reflect China’s strategic approach to boosting its economy by making it more accessible and welcoming to international visitors and residents. These reforms are expected to foster greater international cooperation, tourism, and economic growth.

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