Your Passport into Post-Pandemic Potential :
The Ultimate China Visa Guide
to Reopened Borders

The business community took a 180-degree turn when the global pandemic hit worldwide, closing their borders and enforcing travel bans. But as the situation slowly recuperates, more and more countries are reopening their frontiers and welcoming back international entrepreneurs to do business in their respective regions.

China is one of the countries that recently lifted its travel restrictions after three years of strict border controls. And as of 15 March 2023, they started reissuing visas – such as business visas, tourist visas, work visas, and more.

Get ready to map out your next venture in China and discover endless possibilities beyond the Great Wall. Maximise your travel experience in China with valuable insights and tips shared in this business-savvy blog :

• The Hidden Business Opportunities in China
• 5 Powerful Benefits a China Visa Holds
• 3 Most Popular Visas in China
• Essential Checklist for China Visa
• Fly High with AsiaBC

China’s vast natural resources and skilled workforce solidified its position as the second-largest economy in the world. They emerged as the key player in global trade for manufacturing and exporting goods. But the region’s significant role in the business world is more than meets the eye :

• Huge market potential. Its large population of over 1.4 billion people presents a high demand for goods and services, creating an enormous opportunity for businesses to expand and tap into a new market.
• Economic production costs. Earn higher profits by taking advantage of China’s readily available materials, low labour costs and efficient manufacturing processes.
• Foreign-friendly business policies. The Chinese government simplified administrative procedures and reduced red tape to attract international investments and enterprises to set up and operate in the country. 

Applying for a visa is more than gaining entry to a desired country. It demonstrates the purpose and intent of your visit, highlighting your commitment to comply with immigration’s legal framework.

For foreign entrepreneurs who are expanding overseas, particularly in China, here are the five benefits of why holding a China visa can build a positive influence on your business : 

• Entrepreneurial opportunities. Discover various business prospects and meet potential partners at trade shows, buyer and supplier meetings, and other events.
• Enhanced credibility. By complying with Chinese immigration laws and regulations, you can demonstrate your business’s trustworthiness to Chinese counterparts.
• Longer stays. Extend your time in China to establish and grow your business, conduct research or complete extended projects.
• Cultural understanding. Acquire knowledge of Chinese customs, traditions, and etiquette to foster better communication, learning, and appreciation of Chinese culture.
• Stronger business relations. A China visa shows your dedication to forging long-term and mutually beneficial partnerships with Chinese business owners, promoting cooperation and goodwill.

China visas hold a specific purpose for international travellers seeking to enter the country — business, employment, leisure, etc. Here are three of the common visas issued by the Chinese embassy : 

1. Business (M) Visa – Issued to foreign visitors for doing business in China – attending trade fairs, client meetings, etc.

• Entry type : Single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry.
• Duration of stay : 30 days up to 60 days.

2. Tourist (L) Visa – This visa is for those who plan to visit China for vacation, leisure travel, or visiting friends and family.
   

• Entry type : Single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry.
• Duration of stay : 30 days up to 90 days.
• US and Canadian citizens are eligible for multiple entry with 10 years of validity.

3. Work (Z) Visa – Suitable for individuals who have secured employment in China and plan to work in the country. 

• Entry type : Single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry.
• Duration of stay : 30 days up to 60 days.
• Work (Z) visa holders must apply for a residence permit in the Public Security Bureau (police station).

Planning a business trip to China can be overwhelming when you need to juggle meeting preparations and travel necessities — flight details, hotel reservations, transportation and more. Let’s ease your worries and make things simpler for you with this guide in preparing your visa application.

Requirements 

• Printed visa application with signature
• Original passport valid for 6 months
• Copy of passport’s information page
• Passport size photo
• Copy of HKID (if any)
• Business licence
• Business invitation letters from Chinese business partners, institutes or trade fairs

*Note : The business invitation letter must contain the applicant’s full name, birth date, passport number, the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, places to be visited. For the inviter’s details, it should have their name, contact number, address, signature, and official stamp.

Procedure

1. Book an appointment. Visit China Visa Application Service Center to set a schedule.
2. Submit documents. Physically hand in all paperwork at the given time. All mailed requirements are only accepted if residing in Taiwan. 
3. Fingerprint collection. It is a mandatory step for first-time applicants but no longer required for those under 14 and over 70 years old.
4. Pay & pick up. Settle the service fee and claim your visa on the specified date. 

Processing Time 

• China visa approval takes around 7 business days. 

As cross-border countries slowly open their frontiers and welcome back international entrepreneurs, applying for a visa can be complicated and time-consuming. A China visa is no exception to its complex procedure. But holding such a travel pass is a valuable asset that gives a new window of opportunities to expand your business venture and tap into a larger market. 

ICYMI AsiaBC is now offering a China visa service to support you in building a successful and sustainable business in China. Make your 7-day stay in Hong Kong worthwhile and apply for your China visa. Our team of experts will assist you in gathering the necessary paperwork and ensure everything is in order for a smooth and convenient application process.

Ready to take on a journey beyond the Great Wall of China? Our proactive advisors are just one message away. Connect with them through WhatsApp +852 6547 1314 or business@asiabc.com.hk and make your next business trip to China or Hong Kong productive.