China on Thursday announced new measures to facilitate foreign nationals coming to the country for business, study and tourism.

According to the National Immigration Administration, they could be granted a visa on arrival as part of streamlined applications.

Foreign nationals can apply for port visas with invitations and other documentation, if it’s too late to go through the visa application procedures in other countries.

In addition, transit requirements are relaxed for foreigners arriving at nine international airports around the country, including Beijing Capital International Airport and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.

Other measures include making it easier for foreigners to apply for an extension of stay.

The measures take effect immediately.

Liu Haitao, deputy head of the National Immigration Administration, said the new measures will help promote global trade and further benefit foreign nationals.

“To adapt to the efficient and rapid communication and interaction in current international economic and trade activities, especially the trends of liberalisation and facilitation of investment and trade, immigration management agencies continuously optimise the policy for the entry and exit and residence of foreign nationals and actively promote smooth and convenient cross-border travel of people from various countries,” he said. (Additional reporting by AP)
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Last updated: 2024-01-11 HKT 16:43