China Notifies Japanese Travel Agencies to Suspend Visa Processing for Travel to China Following South Korea

Travelers leaving the departure hall of Narita Airport, Japan [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Amid China's complete suspension of short-term visa issuance for South Korean nationals, Kyodo News reported on the 10th that China has also halted visa processing for travel to China from Japan.

Kyodo News, citing multiple Japanese travel agency officials, stated, "Chinese authorities have notified Japanese travel agencies of the suspension of visa processing," but did not specify the exact suspension period or reasons.

The notice of visa processing suspension by China appears to be a retaliatory measure following the Japanese government's strengthening of quarantine measures for arrivals from China starting on the 30th of last month. Previously, the Japanese government announced that from the 30th of last month, travelers arriving from China must submit a negative COVID-19 test certificate within 72 hours and undergo COVID-19 testing. Additionally, those who test positive will be subject to a 7-day quarantine.

Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy in Korea announced on the same day the suspension of short-term visa issuance for South Korean nationals traveling to China and stated, "The above matter (suspension of visa issuance) will be adjusted according to the situation of South Korea canceling discriminatory entry restrictions against China."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.