China is set to re-establish the 15-day visa-free entry for citizens of Singapore and Brunei starting from Wednesday. This decision comes after more than three years since the visas were suspended as a measure to contain the spread of COVID-19.
The Chinese embassies in Singapore and Brunei announced the resumption, allowing citizens with ordinary passports to travel for various purposes, including business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit.
“From 00:00 (Beijing time) on Wednesday July 26 2023, the Chinese government will resume the 15-day visa free policy for Singaporean citizens holding ordinary passport who enter China for business, tourism, family visit and transit purposes. Visas which have been issued to Singaporean citizens are still valid. Visa applications that have been lodged before will be processed normally.”
said the Chinese Embassy in a Official Notice.
Visa-Free Entry Reinstated
China’s embassies in Singapore and Brunei have revealed that the country will once again permit visa-free entry for citizens of both nations, as reported on Wednesday. The move comes as a significant step, as the visa-free option was suspended over three years ago in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Also Read: China Issues Over 60,000 Visas to Indian Travellers in 2023
Eligibility and Purpose of Visa-Free Entry
According to the official notices released by the Chinese embassies, the 15-day visa-free entry applies to citizens of Singapore and Brunei who hold ordinary passports.
These individuals will be eligible to visit China for various purposes, including business-related activities, sightseeing, visiting relatives and friends, as well as transiting through the country.
Gradual Return to Normalcy
China has been gradually easing its strict COVID-19 measures since December, and the reinstatement of visa-free entry is another indicator of the country’s efforts to restore international travel and interactions. While tourist visas were only reintroduced in March, this recent development signifies a further relaxation of entry restrictions.
Reciprocal Arrangements
In addition to resuming visa-free entry for Singaporean and Bruneian citizens, China has also expressed its interest in achieving visa-free travel for its own citizens to Singapore.
Such reciprocal arrangements could foster increased people-to-people exchanges, enhance business ties, and boost tourism between the two nations.
China’s decision to restore visa-free entry for citizens of Singapore and Brunei demonstrates the country’s commitment to resuming global mobility amidst the ongoing COVID-19 recovery efforts.
The move is expected to facilitate smoother travel and strengthen bilateral relations between these Southeast Asian nations and China. Travellers are advised to check the specific entry requirements and guidelines provided by the Chinese embassies before planning their trips.
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!
