Entry and exit management for foreigners amid epidemic control

To effectively prevent and control the epidemic, protect the health of entry and exit personnel, and maintain entry and exit order, the National Immigration Administration has adjusted the exit and entry administration regulations.

Q: Are foreigners allowed to enter and leave the country normally during the epidemic prevention and control of pneumonia caused by the novel coronavirus?

A: At present, except the Wuhan port remains closed, the administrations of exit/entry affairs at all levels in China are in normal operation. The visa free policy for foreigners has not been adjusted. Foreigners can enter and leave the country normally at the ports by presenting valid exit and entry documents.

Q: How do foreigners apply for visa extension and residence permit during the epidemic prevention and control of pneumonia caused by the novel coronavirus?

A: During the epidemic prevention and control period, the administrations of exit/entry affairs at all levels will continue to provide visa extension and residence permit processing services for foreigners, so as to ensure that foreigners can stay legally. Special channels will be opened for individual case examination and approval for those who have emergencies during this period. To avoid the crowds, foreigners can contact the local PSB for the visa application appointment.

Q: What about the expiration of visas and residence permits for foreigners during the epidemic prevention and control period?

A: According to China’s Exit-Entry Administration Law, foreigners should leave the country before the expiration of his/her visa and residence permit. Those who need a longer stay in China should go to the local PSB to extend his/her visa and residence permit. Given the relevant laws and regulations and the current situation, if it is difficult to leave the country on time and unable to handle the visa and residence permit extension in time due to the epidemic prevention and control, the immigration administration may, in accordance with the law and regulations, reduce or exempt the penalty of overdue residence.