After locking down the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic, China has now announced it will be lifting its visa curbs on foreigners. As per reports, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China has stated today, March 14, 2023, that the country would once again begin issuing a range of visas to international tourists, students and more
This move by the Chinese government will greatly benefit Indian students. Especially those who had to return back home and put their education on pause due to visa restrictions and COVID lockdowns. As per immigration authorities, the policies regarding the visa application will come into effect from tomorrow, March 15, 2023.
As per an AFP report, in addition to new visas being reviewed and approved, the Chinese Foreign Ministry had stated that the visas issued before March 28, 2020, if still valid, can be used for entry into China.
As per an official statement issued by the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry, all categories of visas will be issued from Wednesday, March 15, 2023, onwards. The statement further added that this decision has been made in order to “facilitate cross-border travel”.
The updated policy for visa issuance in China will also work towards resuming visa-free travel for those arriving on cruise ships to Shanghai and for certain tourist groups from Hong Kong, Macau and countries within the ASEAN regional grouping.
A year ago, the Chinese Ambassador to India had stated that Indian students would be able to resume their studies in the country soon. Due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and strict lockdown, all foreigners were asked to leave the country. As a result, thousands of Indian students had to leave their education and return home.
Not only would these students be able to resume their education in China, other students who aspire to study abroad will be able to now pursue their study abroad dreams and seek admission in renowned Chinese universities.
