China has temporarily suspended entry of Nigerians into the country and other non-Chinese nationals despite holding valid Chinese visas or residence permits over the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a notice issued on Thursday, the Chinese authorities said its embassy will no longer issue a certified health declaration form for non-Chinese nationals in the country.
It, however, said holders of diplomatic passports, service, courtesy or C visas will not be affected by the regulation, adding that the measures will be reviewed in accordance with “evolving situation”.
“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, China has decided to temporarily suspend entry into China by non-Chinese nationals in Nigeria holding visas or residence permits still valid at the time of this announcement. The Chinese Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria will no longer issue Certified Health Declaration Form for the above-mentioned personnel,” the Chinese notice read.
“Entry by holders of diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas will not be affected. Foreign nationals visiting China for emergency needs may apply for visas at Chinese Embassy or Consulate. Entry by non-Chinese nationals in Nigeria with visas issued after 3 November 2020 will not be affected.
“The suspension is a temporary response necessitated by the current situation of Covid-19. The above-mentioned measures will be assessed in accordance with the evolving situation and any adjustment will be announced accordingly.”
The Chinese embassy in New Delhi, the capital of India recently suspended the entry by foreign nationals from India even with valid visas or residence permits because of COVID-19.
Authorities in Delhi believes the order isn’t specific to India as Beijing being worried about COVID-19 cases, has issued similar orders for other countries. Those with visas issued after November 3 won’t be affected.
Visitors from Britain, France, Belgium, Bangladesh, and the Philippines will face similar restrictions as well.
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