2022-06-23-KPMG_Global-People_s_Republic_of_China_–_Cancellation_of_the_Invitation_Letter_Requirement_4页_328kb

GMS Flash Alert - Immigration Edition Summary

Core Content

The GMS Flash Alert, dated June 23, 2022, highlights a significant change in China's immigration policy regarding the requirement for an invitation letter (PU letter) for work-related visa applications. Effective from June 6, 2022, foreign nationals can now apply for work visas and dependent visas without the need for a PU letter, provided they have a Work Permit Notification Letter and other standard documents. This change applies to several visa categories, streamlining the visa application process and reducing lead times.

Main Points

• Cancellation of PU Letter Requirement:

  • Starting from June 6, 2022, foreign nationals applying for work-related visas in China do not need a PU letter.
  • The Work Permit Notification Letter and other standard documents are now sufficient for the application.

• Visa Categories No Longer Requiring PU Letter:

  • Working in China with a Work Permit Notification Letter: Z visa
  • Family members of foreign nationals working in China: S1/S2 visa
  • Study: X1/X2 visa
  • Family reunion: Q1/Q2 visa
  • High-end talent or specialists: R visa
  • Crew members for flight, aviation, and shipping: C visa

• Visa Categories Still Requiring PU Letter:

  • Business visit: M visa
  • Academic exchanges: F visa
  • Participation in a major project: M/F visa

• Impact on Application Process:

  • The removal of the PU letter requirement shortens the application process by at least one month.
  • This change reflects China's efforts to support economic recovery and attract foreign talent and investment.

Key Information

• KPMG Note:

  • The policy change is part of a broader initiative by Chinese government authorities to facilitate enterprise operations and attract foreign talent during the post-pandemic recovery.
  • KPMG advises companies to review and adjust their assignment and talent allocation policies accordingly.

• Recommendations for Applicants:

  • Check the official websites or WeChat accounts of Chinese embassies in their country for the latest updates.
  • For countries where the policy change has not been announced, applicants are advised to contact the embassy directly via email to confirm the current process.

• Contact Information:

  • For further assistance, contact Michelle Zhou, Tax Partner at KPMG.
  • Email: michelle.b.zhou@kpmg.com
  • Phone: +86 (21) 2212 3458

Related Resources

• This summary is excerpted from the article "China Immigration Policy Updates – Cancellation of the Invitation Letter Requirement for Foreigners Entering China" published in the China Tax Alert (Issue 12, June 2022).

Disclaimer

• The information provided is from the KPMG International member firm in the People's Republic of China.
• KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee.
• Each KPMG firm is a separate legal entity and does not provide services to clients directly.

Footnotes

1. See, for example, "Notice on new adjustments for Chinese Visa Applications" on the website of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Canada at: http://ca.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/sgqq/202206/t20220616_10704018.htm.
2. See, for example, "Notice on the Current Visa Application Procedures" (updated June 13, 2022) on the website of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America at: http://us.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zytz/202206/t20220614_10702581.htm.