China will again be issuing passports and extending residence permits already given out. The country is preparing for a full transition out of the pandemic, almost 3 years after the closure of the borders.

Since Jan. 8, 2023, China will gradually begin to optimize its immigration policy. In particular, it will resume the issuance of passports for residents of mainland China, as well as ordinary visas and residence permits for foreigners. This was announced by the National Immigration Administration of China (NIA).

Major changes:

  • Residents of mainland China will again be issued passports. That is, the country will once again begin to accept and consider applications for ordinary passports to enable travel abroad; mainland Chinese residents will also be able to request permits to visit Hong Kong.
  • Foreigners will again be able to apply for visa services. Foreigners will again be able to apply for the extension, renewal and reissuance of ordinary visas; the issuance, renewal and reissuance of residence permits; and the issuance, renewal, and reissuance of residence permits.
  • Port visas will be available again. NIA will resume issuing port visas, implementing a 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, and issuing temporary entry permits as required by law.
  • Land ports and channels will resume operation. Passage of passengers at land ports/canals will be reopened; and exit and entry of passengers and border zone residents through land ports and corridors for border zone residents will be resumed.
  • Quick channels at the ports adjacent to the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions will start operating again. Those who are permitted to enter Hong Kong and Macao will be able to go through the fast-track immigration screening channels.
  • Water ports will resume their work, and passenger processing at these ports will also resume. Passengers of the liner will be allowed to leave and enter through water ports that meet the relevant requirements; passengers of international cruises will be able to leave and enter at selected ports.

What do all these changes mean? With the restoration of the former rhythm of life and travel, it will be much more convenient for tourists to travel to and from China; foreign investors will establish closer relations with their managers and employees in China; and those who want to enter the Chinese market will now be able to promote their business ideas locally more effectively.