Temporary closure of all Visa Application centers in China until Feb. 16, 2020

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Applicants seeking to apply for a German entry visa will not be able to lodge their entry visa applications in China. The German Foreign Ministry has issued a partial travel warning to the high-risk regions in China.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate
• Visas/permits affected: Tourist, business, work visas and work permits. Passport and consular offices remain open.
• Who is affected: Visa required nationals living in China and their employers.
• Next steps: Employers should anticipate further restrictions regarding Chinese nationals and travel from China.

Additional information: According to the Robert Koch Institute and the European Center for Disease Control, the risk for the population in Germany is very low. As of today, there are 13 cases of infected people, all in the federal state of Bavaria. They came recently from Wuhan or had close contact to passengers from Wuhan. Passengers who came from the region of Wuhan are being checked at the airport and those with symptoms are isolated under quarantine and monitored for the time of incubation. The health ministry checks and monitors people who have close contact with travelers and informs them accordingly.

Analysis & Comments: Employers of Chinese nationals may experience delays affecting employee mobility. The response to the coronavirus is evolving rapidly, and Deloitte will alert clients to additional changes as necessary.

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