Short-term visa issuance resumed for Japan

IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Chinese government recently resumed the issuance of new short-term visas to Japanese nationals.

Key Points:

• Japanese nationals are now eligible for port visas, and the 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy has resumed for those traveling to China.
• Previously, the issuance of port visas and the 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy had been suspended since Jan. 11.
• Chinese authorities continue to state they “will take reciprocal measures” for countries that impose COVID-19 entry requirements on travelers from China.

Additional Information: Reports say that South Korean authorities extended their visa restrictions until at least Feb. 28. As such, the Chinese government continues to restrict the issuance of visas for South Korean nationals.

BAL Analysis: Chinese authorities resumed the issuance of short-term visas as Japanese authorities lifted their previously imposed visa restrictions on Chinese nationals. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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