China fully resumes border service in low-risk areas of COVID-19

A Chinese immigration officer working on border documents for a foreigner during the novel coronavirus outbreak. /SIA

China's State Immigration Administration issued 10 measures on Thursday to adjust its border policies and strike a balance between epidemic control and economic development.

COVID-19 has seen a downward trend in confirmed cases on the Chinese mainland. To restore economic vitality, China has been rolling out a raft of measures to resume production.

Service windows will be orderly resumed supporting normal trade, economic and sci-tech activities for Chinese and foreigners. Based on a differentiated epidemic control policy, public security exit-entry windows in low-risk areas will be fully resumed starting Thursday, February 27, while those in medium-risk areas will be resumed in the near future. High-risk areas are offering reserved services for emergency applications.

Border checking amid the novel coronavirus outbreak in China. /SIA

Foreigners working in the fields of innovation, starting business, science and technology researches in the Chinese mainland can have their visas or staying permits automatically extended for two months, without needing to process any documents.

Chinese and foreigners who are needed by companies as they resume production can enjoy priority and fast-track border document service. Foreigners coming to China for urgent affairs like investment, starting business or trade can enjoy preferential policies in visa or temporary entry permits. Priorities will continue to be given for import and export of epidemic control goods and international cooperation.

Chinese immigration officers check documents of a cargo ship during the COVID-19 outbreak. /SIA

Chinese and foreign personnel involved in epidemic control activities like medical service, drug discovery and intellectual exchange can enjoy 24-hour urgent border document service. Vehicles carrying epidemic control goods, imported and exported goods, fresh and live agricultural products can enjoy "zero-waiting" inspection and passing.

But still, the administration says all border service windows and gates of the country will adopt strict epidemic inspection and quarantine measures. Free face masks will be offered to those who forget to wear masks.

Meanwhile, online applications and mail-in service will be provided.