Metro Manila, Philippines – The Philippine Embassy in Beijing has advised Filipinos traveling to China to prepare for stricter immigration and visa rules that will take effect on Sept. 15, following China’s implementation of new regulations governing entry, exit and immigration services.
In an advisory issued Sunday, Aug. 23, the embassy said the new rules under China’s State Council Decree No. 841 are not intended to restrict legitimate travel or make ordinary visa applications more difficult, but they reinforce existing requirements on document authenticity and lawful travel purposes.
“These regulations do not restrict legitimate travel or make ordinary visa applications more difficult for compliant travelers. They reinforce existing requirements on document authenticity and lawful purpose,” the embassy said.
The embassy reminded Filipino travelers that the purpose declared in their visa application must match their actual activities in China, warning that immigration authorities may ask for supporting documents, including electronic records, to verify a traveler’s identity and stated purpose.
It also warned that all documents submitted for visa applications must be genuine and accurate.
“Submitting counterfeit materials or making deliberate false representations in any visa application may result in rejection and an entry ban,” the advisory said.
The embassy also reminded individuals issuing invitation letters for visa applications that they are legally responsible for the accuracy of the information they provide under the new regulations.
Meanwhile, Filipinos seeking visa or immigration assistance were advised to use only agencies registered with local Chinese immigration authorities, as the new rules require immigration and visa service providers to register with Chinese authorities.
The embassy urged Filipinos with consular emergencies in China to contact the Philippine Embassy in Beijing or the nearest Philippine Consulate General.
