Search
Contact
Login
Share this article
IMPACT – MEDIUM
What is the change? The U.K. has announced it will introduce two-year multiple entry visas to Chinese visitors in January, and move forward with 10-year multiple-entry visas.
What does the change mean? The visas will make it easier for business travelers to make frequent trips to the U.K. without having to renew every six months, as is currently the case.
Background: The U.K. government announced the following package of reforms for Chinese visitors:
The U.K. is competing with other European countries for Chinese visitor traffic and the government noted that the new visas are more attractive than standard Schengen visitor visas which are limited to a maximum of 90 days. The changes provide Chinese visitors “the best offer in Europe,” according to a statement by Prime Minister David Cameron.
Chinese tourists currently contribute £500 million annually to the U.K. economy.
BAL Analysis: The longer-validity visas and other reforms will make travel more convenient for frequent business travelers from China to the U.K.
This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in the United Kingdom. For additional information, please contact uk@bal.com.
Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.
The U.S. State Department suspends visa services in Haiti. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico moves to reduce visa wait times.…
The European Council adopted a revision to the 2011 single-permit directive, paving the way for an improved single work and…
The Romanian government announced updates to its EU Blue Card regulations, as well as changes to work permits, including extending…
The European Council agreed to lift controls at air and sea borders in Bulgaria and Romania in March, and the…