Immigration News - Business Visas, Recent Developments, Tourist visas, China China | Fingerprint collection exemption extended Share this article LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) September 11, 2024 Chinese embassies announced an extension of the policy exempting fingerprint collection for certain visa categories until Dec. 31, 2025. Key Points: China temporarily suspended the collection of fingerprints for applicants for certain visa categories in 2023 and the policy has been extended to Dec. 31, 2025. The measure applies to applicants for tourist visas (L), business visas (M), family visit visas (Q2), transit visas (G) and crew member visas (C), with single- or double-entry short-term visas and stays of no more than 180 days. Additional Information: Previously, travelers ages 14-70 have been required to submit fingerprints when applying for a visa to China. To simplify travel, China temporarily suspended the collection of fingerprints for applicants for certain visa categories a year ago. Applicants for long-stay visas — such as family reunification (Q1), family visit (S1) or study (X1) — as well as applicants for multiple-entry visas — such as business visas — will still be required to go to a Chinese embassy, consulate or visa center to have their fingerprints collected when submitting their visa application. This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. Copyright © 2024 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.