For the first time since the Covid pandemic broke out three years ago, China will resume issuing visas to foreign tourists.
The easing of restrictions follows Beijing’s declaration of victory over the virus and its changed course from detrimental zero-Covid strategy that harmed its economy.
Beginning on March 15, 2020, valid visas issued before China closed to the outside world on March 28, 2020, will be honored.
Tour groups from Hong Kong and Macau will be permitted entry without a visawhile Chinese consular offices abroad will also resume processing visa applications.
A significant step has been taken toward the return of normal life in post-pandemic China with the lifting of the final cross-border restrictions put in place to combat Covid. On March 15, all adjustments become final.
Prior to the pandemic, China welcomed tens of millions of foreign tourists annually, but the country’s tourism sector has been severely impacted by stringent anti-Covid regulations.
But after it reopens its borders, analysts say the country can anticipate a significant rise in foreign arrivals.
The worst growth in almost 50 years, according to China, was a mere 3% increase in GDP in 2022.
Beijing has set a 5 percent target for this year, and according to new Premier Li Qiang, the world’s second-largest economy is stabilizing and starting to grow again.
Author-Roberta Appiah
