Corporate Immigration — Visa free entry for six European countries into China
Santa Fe publication date
11 March 2024
Overview
The Consular Department of Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced their decision on expanding the list of unilateral visa free countries on a trial basis to include Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg.
Who will be affected?
This new visa free policy is specifically applicable to ordinary passport holders who are nationals of Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg.
Background
The policy exempts ordinary passport holders from Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg from the requirement of obtaining an entry visa for business, tourist, family and transit through China. Authorised individuals can enter China for up to 15 days for each entry until 30 November 2024. This waiver does not permit employment during the stay.
Impact
With this waiver, ordinary passport holders of Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg can enter China without needing a Chinese entry visa. They are allowed a stay of up to 15 days for each entry from 14 March 2024 to 30 November 2024. There is no limitation on the number of entries allowed during this period of time.
Employment during this period is not permitted under this policy. This policy is an enhancement on Chinese government’s unilateral visa free policy for nationals of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia effective from 1 December 2023 to 30 November 2024 announced on 24 November 2023.
Date of implementation
14 March 2024
Santa Fe recommendation
To optimise the benefits of this visa waiver policy, we recommend thorough documentation preparation, including carrying proof of travel purposes. Awareness of the non-employment condition during stays is crucial for compliance. Proper planning and understanding of its terms are essential for seamless travel under this new policy. Our team is available for any further guidance or queries regarding these changes.
Contact us
Please get in touch with us for further information or clarification:
Connie Wang
Immigration Manager — China
Santa Fe Relocation
connie.wang@santaferelo.com
Robert Day
Group Head of Immigration Operations
Santa Fe Relocation
robert.day@santaferelo.com
About our Immigration Services
Our distinguished immigration services oversee a substantial volume of visa applications annually, catering to a diverse array of international corporations. Our seasoned team of immigration experts and accredited migration agents are entrusted with the meticulous management of the entire immigration process on your behalf. We are committed to delivering streamlined reporting and offering comprehensive guidance on all immigration-related affairs, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for our valued clients.
