In November 2016, the US government introduced the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS), an electronic travel authorization program for Chinese citizens which determines who may enter the country.
However, People’s Republic of China passport holders also need a visa for the United States in addition to obtaining an EVUS authorization.
Chinese passport holders already in possession of one of the valid 10-year US visa types are eligible to enroll for EVUS: B1 (temporary business visitor), B2 (temporary leisure visitor) or the multi-purpose B1/B2 (temporary business and leisure visitor).
To register for EVUS, Chinese nationals are required to fill in a simple online application. To complete the form, applicants must supply basic personal and passport information, and answer a few questions related to security.
Once the EVUS enrollment is complete, the applicant receives an approved US EVUS authorization electronically linked to their passport.
An approved EVUS registration is valid for 2 years from the date of issue and is a multiple entry travel authorization, which means the holder can enter the United States various times during its validity.
Although the majority of EVUS enrollments are quickly processed within a few minutes, applicants are advised to register online well in advance of the intended date of arrival in the US, as processing may take up to 72 hours in some cases.
It is important to note that all Chinese visitors to the United States with a valid 10-year B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa must have a valid approved EVUS or they will not be able to obtain a boarding pass or cross a US land border.
It is necessary to apply for and obtain an approved visa for the USA from an embassy or consulate before a Chinese citizen can complete the EVUS application. However, Chinese travelers with a US visa other than the B-class type do not need to apply for EVUS.