From July 1, foreign nationals visiting or living in China for more than 180 days will need a residence permit. Visitor or tourist visas will only be extended once, by a maximum of 30 days, from the permitted 30-day length of stay.
Brent Willie of Global Visas South Africa, says it is important that travellers are aware of the new visa requirements and leave enough time in their schedules to secure a visa. He recommends thoroughly investigating what category of visa is needed.
While not fully finalised, the laws will see several new categories of visas for those looking to move to China on a more permanent basis as well as rules for F visas (current category for business visits) possibly changing. Brent says these details are not yet clear.
