China has once again suspended the entry into China of foreign nationals holding valid Chinese visas or residence permits. Chinese Embassies in India, the United Kingdom, Philippines, and Belgium have made official announcements in this regard citing the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason. 

The Chinese Embassy and consulates in these countries will no longer issue stamped Health Declaration Forms for the above-mentioned personnel, the notices said. At a press briefing today in Beijing, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson termed it a reasonable and legitimate move and said China has adjusted its measures learning from other countries’ practices. He further said the Chinese embassies in relevant countries will publish timely notices in accordance with the evolving situation hinting that other countries may get affected soon.

Entry by holders of diplomatic, service, courtesy of C visas will not be affected. Foreign nationals visiting China for emergency reasons may apply for visas at Chinese Embassies or consulates in their respective countries.

Also, as per the notices, it is a temporary measure, and entry into China with visas issued after 3rd November 2020 will not be affected.

China has once again tightened control at its borders as it has been citing ‘imported cases’ as a major reason for its COVID numbers in recent times, notwithstanding local outbreaks in Dalian, Qingdao, Beijing and Urumqi and Kashgar in Xinjiang.