Shanghai simplifies visa regime for foreign business travelers

The Chinese authorities have announced the introduction of new visa rules for foreign entrepreneurs who regularly visit Shanghai for business purposes. The new measures are aimed at strengthening international cooperation and creating more comfortable conditions for doing business.

Foreign businessmen actively involved in the development of trade and investment in Shanghai can now apply for a five-year multiple-entry M visa with the possibility of staying in the country for up to 180 days per trip. Visa holders are also exempted from mandatory fingerprinting, and their spouses and children are authorized to enter and stay in China. To reduce the financial burden on applicants, fees are only charged for an annual multiple-entry visa.

To obtain such a visa, applicants need to issue a special invitation from the Shanghai Municipal Foreign Affairs Office and apply at a Chinese consulate or embassy in their home country.

Also, the inviting organization should submit the application on the official website of Shanghai Municipal Foreign Affairs Office. The documents are then reviewed by the local authorities and a special invitation is issued within one week - with no additional processing fee.

Stay up-to-date on all visa policy changes and get up-to-date travel planning advice by following the news on Visa-Navigator.com.