As recently as September, China opened its borders, operating direct flights from 30 countries. However, with the introduction of imported cases to China, China has temporarily suspended issuing of visa and travel from many countries. Some people can still enter, but with great difficulty.
The most notable country mentioned in the UK. Recent lockdown measures have indicated the UK as being high risk. It’s presumed this is a temporary measure. It doesn’t mean UK citizens cannot enter China. It means the visa centres and consulates have suspended issuing visas and allowing UK citizens to on leave flights from UK airports bound for China.
In some cases, UK citizens can still get visas from Chinese Embassies and consulates in other countries and enter China through a third country. As of late, more Chinese consulates embassies are asking for proof of residence if outside your home country.
The ban also extends to any non-Chinese citizen who wishes to travel from the UK to China.
Returning to China with Expired Resident or Work permit
If you have an expired resident or work permit (expired after March 28th 2020), the odds are in your favour. Getting the infamous PU letter and subsequent visa to Enter China are increased dramatically.
While the relevant authorities are reluctant to provide PU letters to new teachers, they are much more sympathetic to teachers who have worked here before the pandemic. Contact Us for job opportunities with schools who can provide a PU letter and get you on a plane to China… Yet, take note, this situation is constantly changing.
Returning to China on a Business Visa 2021
Some teachers are returning on Business (M) visas and then attempting to move to a Z visa when they get to China. Getting a business visa involves getting an invitation letter and PU issued by a relevant entity or individual in China and a PU letter. Getting a PU letter and being successful depends on the industry type and location.
For many, this has been a viable option to return, but it seems these letters are coming harder and harder to come by. China is generally only considering those candidates who are high flying executives of multinationals and those considered of some importance to the Chinese economy.
Had you secured a Z Visa and a teaching job position before COVID restrictions were introduced? Some entry exceptions are being made for those with valid work visas so contact us for more details. We may just be able to help you get to China!
Returning to China with Family / Dependents 2021
Unfortunately, China has not viewed the return of family members (without working visas) as an importance to the economy. When the borders opened back up initially in August 2020, there were no problems with families returning together. It has been documented that the authorities are not sympathetic to families who have a family member inside China who are being separated from their dependents outside. We hope this will change soon.