Following the spike of Covid-19 cases in Europe, China has decided to temporarily close its borders to foreign nationals holding visas or residence permits (work, personal affairs and family reunification residence permit). This new measure affects eight countries: Russia, Italy, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Philippines, India, and Bangladesh.
On Thursday November 5th, the Chinese Embassies announced on their website that the entry into China of holders of diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas will not be affected. Foreign nationals visiting China for emergency needs can still apply for their visas at the Chinese embassy or consulates. The entry into China of foreign nationals with visas issued after November 3rd, will not be affected. The embassies specified that the measure will be reassessed according to the evolution of the situation.
Last Friday, Chinese health authorities reported 30 imported cases in the most recent 24-hour period, including 15 in Shanghai. That number increased the total number of imported cases up to 3,510. That same day, also several European countries reported an uptick in the number of coronavirus infections, forcing governments to impose stricter measures and new lockdowns. Businesses across the continent have been severely hit from a slump in demand.
