U.S. and China to Extend Visa Validity Period for Certain Short-term Travelers

Beginning on November 12, 2014, the U.S. and China will begin extending visas for short-term business travelers, tourists and students. This longer validity period will benefit both U.S. and Chinese nationals who regularly travel back and forth between the two countries; they will not have to apply and pay the application fee every year. Businesses will benefit from increased travel and longer visa validity periods will allow students and exchange visitors to more easily return to their home countries during school and work holidays.

The Department of State (DOS) comments that there will be no change in visa application fees. The change, DOS notes, may result in an increase in visa workload for the U.S. Mission in China, as it is expected that these changes will be popular among Chinese travelers.