1. Shanghai – Allows Q Visas for Some Visa-Free Nationals
Shanghai Exit-Entry Administration now allows nationals from newly added visa-free countries to apply for a three-month Q2 visa to visit family members who are Chinese citizens or permanent residents.
This policy facilitates family reunions and provides flexibility for foreign visitors.
2. Filipino Workers Require Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
Filipino citizens must obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) before they can leave the Philippines for employment abroad. The OEC application is processed through the Philippine Immigration Bureau and requires either Hague Apostille or embassy certification.
Applicants must present a signed and stamped Chinese labor contract in Chinese for Hague certification. For embassy certification, the company’s legal representative can sign an unenforced contract at the embassy.
3. Updated Requirements for Adding Tax Agents and Invoice Officers
Under new tax authority rules, if the company’s legal representative or financial manager is Chinese, tax agents and invoice officers can be added online.
If both are foreigners, the assigned agents must bring a stamped authorization letter and passport copy to the tax bureau for in-person processing. Furthermore, future invoicing must also be completed in person.
4. Parent’s Nationality Determines Child’s Private Affairs Visa Eligibility
According to the latest immigration policies, children applying for private affairs visas must undergo nationality verification if one parent holds a nationality from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, or a foreign country.
5. First-time Travel Permit Issuance for Non-Chinese Hong Kong and Macau Residents
Non-Chinese permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau entering the mainland for short-term purposes such as investment, family visits, tourism, or business can now apply for travel permits through designated agencies.
These permits allow multiple entries into the mainland over five years, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.
6. 144-Hour Transit Visa Exemption Expanded to 37 Ports and 54 Countries
The 144-hour transit visa exemption policy now applies to 37 ports across China and citizens from 54 countries. This policy simplifies entry procedures for short-term visits by citizens from Europe, the Americas, Oceania, and Asia.
The visa-free transit policy applies to major ports such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and many others, totaling 37 ports.
