China to Reopen to Foreign Ministers for First Time since COVID Crisis

China is to resume issuing visas to foreign tourists for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out three years ago. 

From 15 March, foreign offices can process applications for Chinese visas.

The major easing of restrictions comes after the Asian country declared victory over the virus and retreated from a zero-Covid strategy that has hurt its economy.

On Tuesday, The State Department said areas in China that did not require a visa before the outbreak of the pandemic will return to the visa-free entry policy. 

 This includes the southern tourist island of Hainan and cruise ships passing through the port of Shanghai.

Visa-free entry of foreigners from Hong Kong and Macau into Guangdong Province will also be resumed.

The ministry stated that foreign travellers who have visas issued before March 28, 2020, and still valid can use them to enter China.

China, which withdrew its advice to its nationals not to travel abroad in January, added 40 more countries to the list of destinations allowed for groups to travel to, bringing the total number to 60 countries.