China Tourist and Business Visas

President Obama recently announced new reciprocity rules for Chinese citizens coming to the U.S. with tourist (B-2) and temporary/business (B-1) visas. Rather than being valid for up to one year – requiring repeated renewals – they may be valid for up to 10 years.

This does not mean the person can stay in the U.S. for up to 10 consecutive years. Usually such a person is only admitted for six months and a six-month extension is possible (but by no means assured). The passport visa stamp will be valid for multiple trips. Since these rules are reciprocal, U.S. citizens will get longer-term visas to visit China.

The impact on EB-5 green cards is twofold. On the positive side, it will be easier for Chinese prospective investors to visit the U.S. and analyze possible EB-5 investments. On the flip side, some Chinese prospective EB-5 investors may choose to only visit the U.S. instead of immigrating. However, the Chinese EB-5 quota is hitting its maximum per year. Less Chinese EB-5s will mean more for those who do apply – a shorter waiting time for EB-5 green cards will encourage more to apply.