Electronic system announced for Chinese nationals holding 10-year visitor visas

Later this year, Chinese nationals holding 10-year visitor visas will be required to enroll in a new Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) that is currently being developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Once the system is implemented in November, Chinese nationals (mainland only) who hold 10-year visitor (B1/B2, B1, and B2) visas will be required to enroll online before traveling to the United States. Travelers will have to renew their enrollment every two years or when their passport expires, whichever occurs first.

In 2014, the U.S. and China reciprocally lengthened the validity period of visitor visas to 10 years, reducing the need for frequent travelers to renew these visas every year. The bilateral agreement contemplated that each country may require the other’s 10-year visa holders to periodically update their biographical information. The CBP has said that it may expand EVUS to other foreign nationals in the future.

BAL Analysis: Chinese nationals are not required to take action now and may continue to travel to the U.S. on valid 10-year visitor visas until EVUS is implemented. Beginning in November, Chinese nationals with existing, valid 10-year business or tourist visas will be required to enroll in EVUS before making their next entry to the U.S. Those applying for new 10-year visitor visas will be required to enroll in EVUS before making their first trip to the U.S.

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