Change in China Visa Applications for PRs and other foreign nationals

Some of you may have started to experience or have heard about the change in visa applications to China.

In short, the Chinese government will not issue anymore multiple entry visas since last Monday March 31st. This will stay in effect until the end of the Olympics. To quote the SCMP page one article yesterday: “Travelers are now restricted to single- or double-entry visas valid for 30 days. Multiple-entry visas that have not expired are still valid.”

THIS AFFECTS PERMANENT RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG AS WELL. Don’t think you’re exempted. DH exiting to China for the purpose of going back the same day -- this may not be the best strategy -- check Macao entry requirements instead.

Travel agents were informed, but the rest of the business community has been hearing about it as they found applications for multiple-entry visas were being denied. Some believe the ban could last well into October.

Also, pricing has been changed (raised). Now:

Single entry/Double entry
British nationals: $850 / $1,050
Australians, Canadians, most Europeans $500 / $600

Some are also reporting longer processing times.

So please do be aware and check with your travel agent well in advance of traveling to China to ensure less hassle when traveling.