After the announcement by the National Health Commission PRC that the COVID-19 Management Measures are downgraded to those against Class B Infectious Diseases, the National Immigration Administration of China announced the optimization of immigration policies. Also starting from January 8, 2023, eight specific measures will be implemented: 

• Resume the processing and approval of applications for ordinary passports from Chinese citizens for travelling and visiting purposes, and resume the processing of endorsements for mainland residents travelling to Hong Kong.
• Resume the processing of foreigners' applications for
  • the extension, renewal and replacement of ordinary visas,
  • the issuance, renewal and replacement of residence documents and
  • the issuance, extension, renewal and replacement of residence permits.​
• Resume the issuance of port visa, the implementation of the 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, and the issuance of temporary entry permit.
• Resume the issuance of entry and exit permits for the People's Republic of China and resume the issuance of entry and exit permits for border areas.
• The gradual resumption of land crossings (channels) passenger clearance.
• Restore the border crossing express lanes at border control points adjacent to Hong Kong and Macao.
• Gradually resume passenger clearance at water transport ports, allow eligible water transport ports and resume international cruise passenger entry and exit on a pilot basis
• Continue to operate "green channels" for key cargo flights at air ports, "fast channels" for key material vehicles at land ports and border checkpoints, and online self-service procedures for water ports

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