Foreign nationals in Singapore applying for Chinese visas must apply in person

IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? The Chinese Visa Application Center in Singapore will require all foreign (non-Singaporean) nationals to file visa applications in person beginning Monday and effective until further notice.

What does the change mean? Foreign applicants should prepare to appear in person at the Chinese Visa Application Center to submit their visa applications, though third-party representatives are permitted to accompany them to provide assistance.

• Implementation time frame: Oct. 9.
• Visas/permits affected: All Chinese visa applications.
• Who is affected: Foreign passport holders in Singapore, such as permanent residents and work pass holders, who are applying for visas to China.
• Business impact: Companies should anticipate that employees will be required to submit visa applications personally.

BAL Analysis: Chinese consular authorities continue to implement changes to visa-issuing policies and application procedures. No official announcement was made, and applicants are reminded that further changes may occur with little notice. BAL is monitoring the changes and will provide updates as soon as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2017 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.