Chinese consulate in SF explains new exit-entry regulation for foreigners

Chinese Consulate General in San Francisco holds a briefing conference on August 29, 2013, explaining the new exit-entry regulation for foreigners which will be effective on September　1st.

Deputy Consul General Bi Gang said at the conference that the regulation categorizes ordinary visas into 12types, with the new R-visa to be issued to high-level foreign professionals. Another new visa type, the Q-visa, has also been introduced for foreigners who come to China to visit relatives.

According to the new regulation, Chinese visa fall into four types, including diplomatic visa, courtesy visa, service visa and ordinary visa. The ordinary visa is further divided into 16 categories, adding four new visa type, which are S-visa issued to those who are spouses, parents, sons or daughters of foreigners working or studying in China; Q-visa issued to those who are family members of Chinese citizens or of foreigners with Chinese permanent residence; M-visa issued to those who intend to go to China for commercial and trade activities; R-visa issued to those who are high-level talents or those whose skills are urgently needed in China.

Adam Leung, general manager of "Fat Pro Services"company which helps customers go through visas told reporter that the new regulation would facilitate company with categorized customer list. It will make it more convenient for those who would like to stay longer in China for family reunion.

In Silicon Valley, talents are always the hot topic. Wu Yi, Consul at San Francisco consulate general, who is also in charge of visa issues said that China is developing fast with urgent need of high-level professionals. The newly added R-visa is expected to attract more overseas high-tech talents coming back to China.