China Revised Visa Regulations for Indian Travellers

In a noteworthy development, China has introduced substantial modifications to its visa rules for Indian citizens, impacting categories such as business (M), tourism (L), short-term family visits to Chinese citizens (Q2), transit (G), and crew (C) purposes.

In a announcement made by the Chinese Embassy in India stated that “From now until December 31, 2023, applicants eligible for single or double-entry visas for categories of business (M) , tourist (L), short-term family visit to Chinese citizens (Q2), transit(G), and crew (C) purposes are exempted from collection of biometric data (fingerprints).”

These changes are set to remain in effect until December 31, 2023. Notable exemptions include individuals under 14 or over 70 years of age, those with recent fingerprint collection by the Chinese Embassy, and those with “uncollectable” fingerprints.

Exemptions and Pre-existing Regulations

As of the recent policy announcement, certain categories of individuals were previously exempt from the aforementioned rules.

These exemptions applied to individuals under 14 years of age or above 70, those who had undergone fingerprint collection by Chinese Embassy authorities within the last five years using the same passport, as well as those whose fingerprints were deemed “uncollectable.”

Cost Variations in Chinese Visas for Indian Nationals

The cost of acquiring a Chinese visa for Indian travellers now varies between Rs 3,800 and Rs 7,800, contingent upon the specific type and validity period of the visa applied for.

For individuals seeking visa-related information and assistance, direct communication channels have been established with the Chinese embassy in New Delhi.

Enquiries can be directed to the embassy’s dedicated hotline at 9999 03673 or communicated via email at [email protected].

Visa Revisions Coincide with BRICS Meeting

The timing of these visa rule modifications is noteworthy, coming just ahead of the scheduled BRICS summit where key leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, are anticipated to participate.

Relations between India and China have remained strained since the Galwan Valley clash in May 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides.

Mandatory Documentation for Chinese Visa Applications

Prospective travellers seeking Chinese visas must adhere to specific documentation requirements, including:

1. Completed the application form and confirmation page from the online visa application process.
2. Original passport with a minimum validity of six months.
3. Availability of two or more blank visa pages in the passport.
4. Submission of photocopies of pertinent passport pages.
5. Submission of photographs.
6. Presentation of evidence validating residential and employment status.

These adjustments to China’s visa regulations for Indian nationals underscore the evolving dynamics between the two nations and the potential for diplomatic progress on various fronts. As the BRICS meeting approaches, all eyes are on the outcomes of these changes and their potential influence on bilateral relations.