China suspends entry of foreign nationals from India due to COVID-19

New Delhi: The Chinese embassy said that it has decided to temporarily suspend entry into the country by foreign nationals from India holding valid visas or residence permits due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is hereby announced that China has decided to temporarily suspend the entry into China by foreign nationals in India holding valid Chinese visas or residence permits," the embassy said in a note.

"The Chinese embassy/consulates in India will not stamp the health declaration forms for the holders of the above-mentioned categories of visa or residence permits," it said.

The note, posted on the website of the embassy, clarified that foreigners holding Chinese "diplomatic, service, courtesy and C visas are not affected."

"Foreigners with emergency or humanitarian needs to visit China can submit the visa application to the Chinese embassy/consulates in India. The entry into China with visas issued after November 3rd is not affected," it said.

The embassy said the "suspension" is a temporary measure that China has adopted to deal with the current pandemic.

"China will make further adjustment and announcement as per the ongoing pandemic situation in a timely manner," it said.