Possibility of denial of entry due to illness, etc.
Embassy in China re-announces precautions
Since the 8th, ordinary Korean passport holders have been able to travel to China ‘visa-free’, but diplomatic authorities have warned that some people may still be refused entry due to illness or other reasons.
On the 19th, Yonhap News reported on some recent cases where people were denied visa-free entry into China. Previously, on the 15th, a Korean traveler was denied entry into China.
It was revealed that this Korean had been diagnosed with tuberculosis in China several years ago. Although he was completely cured of tuberculosis, he was said to have been refused entry because he could not prove to the local authorities that he had been cured of tuberculosis during the entry process. In relation to this, the Embassy in China said to the media, “The method of proving cure of tuberculosis will be announced later in consultation with relevant organizations.”
Starting on the 8th, China decided to add 9 countries, including Korea, to its visa-free pilot policy. Yonhap News
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In addition to illness, visa-free entry may also be denied if the purpose of entry is unclear. In fact, it has been reported that since the visa-free policy began, there have been cases where other Korean citizens were unable to enter the country due to ‘unclear purpose of entry.’
The purposes for which Korean citizens can travel visa-free to China until the end of next year include ▲business, ▲tourism, ▲visiting relatives, and ▲transit. If the purpose of entry of a Korean national who arrived in China without a visa is outside the scope or is unclear, the local authorities may not accept it. ‘Unclear purpose of entry’ is also a reason that countries around the world, including Korea and the United States, have used when denying entry to foreigners due to concerns about the possibility of illegal stay or crime.
In a notice regarding visa-free entry, the Embassy in China said, “You must prepare as detailed an explanation as possible regarding the purpose of entry and your stay schedule, including each destination, institution visited, date and time of visit, etc.” and “visits other than business, tourism, visiting relatives, or transit purposes.” He emphasized, “It is necessary to obtain a visa before entering China.”
He also added, “It is a good idea to prepare a return flight ticket or a flight ticket to a third country in advance, as well as accommodation or contact information for acquaintances while staying in China.”
In addition, if you are staying at a relative or acquaintance’s home in China rather than a hotel that provides its own ‘registration of accommodation’ (registration of temporary residence for foreigners), you must register your accommodation at the local police station after arriving in China.
Reporter Lim Joo-hyung skepped@asiae.co.kr
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1. Introduction: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background in travel and tourism?
2. Visa-Free Entry to China: The new visa-free policy for Korean passport holders has been in effect for a few weeks now. How has the response been so far?
3. Denial of Entry: Recently, there have been cases where Korean citizens were denied entry into China under the visa-free policy. What are some possible reasons for this?
4. Medical Conditions: Many Koreans, especially those who have been treated for tuberculosis in the past, are concerned about being denied entry due to medical reasons. What advice would you give to individuals in this situation?
5. Unclear Purpose of Entry: China is strict about accepting ambiguous travel purposes when issuing visas. How does one ensure they meet the requirements for visa-free entry?
6. Documentation: What kinds of documentation should travelers prepare before heading to China under the visa-free policy?
7. Accommodation: If staying with friends or family members instead of a hotel, how should travelers register their accommodation in China?
8. The Future: What challenges and opportunities do you see with the new visa-free policy between Korea and China?
