‘Super Priority’ Visa Service for Chinese Visitors
During a recent visit to Beijing, Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne announced measures to simplify the visa application process for Chinese visitors.
The new procedures include several changes:
- A new 24-hour ‘super priority’ visa service available from 2014
- The opportunity for Chinese nationals visiting both Europe & the UK to forego submitting a separate UK visa application if they book with selected Chinese travel agents
- An expansion of the existing VIP mobile visa service now operating in Beijing and Shanghai
With more than 210,000 visas issued to Chinese nationals last year and over 600 Chinese businesses already maintaining a presence in the UK, Mr Osborne recognises the economic value of Chinese-led investment. His government, therefore, is hoping these small changes will persuade more Chinese companies to invest in the UK and also lessen the burden of paperwork placed on would-be Chinese tourists seeking entry to this country.
