An “F” visa was issued to a Macau foreign resident last Friday 5 March by the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in Macao SAR. It is the first visa issued by the Office since March 2020, when China suspended the entry of foreign nationals holding visas or residence permits.
“In light of the latest situation of COVID-19 Pandemic Prevention and Control in Macao and the need for cultural exchanges and economic development,” the Office has resumed accepting visa applications for foreign residents of Macau to enter mainland China.
At this stage only “M” and “F” visas have resumed, allowing the holder one entry within three months of issue and a stay of up to 30 days.
Application materials include a Macau resident identity card (Permanent or non-permanent) and proof of stay in Macau for at least two consecutive months before the date of application. An invitation letter from a trade partner in China or from trade fairs is additionally required for an “M” visa, while an invitation letter issued by a relevant entity or individual in China is required for an “F” visa.
Currently, China allows foreign nationals holding valid Chinese residence permits for work, personal matters and reunion to enter. Foreigners holding Chinese diplomatic, service, courtesy and C visas are allowed to enter as well.
Precise entry policies vary between provinces. Since 31 December 2020, Guangdong has implemented a 14-day quarantine upon arrival policy, followed by a 7-day community-management period.
Macau eased its policy on 1 December 2020 to allow foreigners who have been in mainland China for over 14 days to enter. The policy applies to spouses or children of Macau residents, foreign workers and their spouses with permits, persons who have obtained a resident permit, students who are admitted by local colleges, and other individuals for business, academic or specific events.
