Process and logic behind special Invitation letter (PU)

China is allowing foreigners in efforts to rebuild the economy. Entry to foreigners is allowed in a restrictive and controlled manner. One such method is allowing entry through “M” visa issued based on the Special invitation letter (PU letter) from the Foreign Affairs Office of the city.

Process and mentioned criteria for such letters differ city-wise, but overall logic is the same. Applications are invited to filter the entry and prevent the spread of infection. The following are the key points to be eligible for getting an invitation letter.

1. Chinese friend/Company or colleague should take a guarantee for liability that may incur if the infection is spread through the person invited.
2. Record in terms of taxes paid.
3. Role of the person in the organization and how the business is affected by his/her non-presence.
4. The validity of the suspended residence card (not suspended or expired Visa).
5. The inviting entity should have a valid business in China (can be a representative office or mainland registered company).
6. A reason which convinces authorities about business is getting affected due to the non-presence of the invited person.
7. Planned measures to avoid infection are getting spread through the person being invited. (transportation/accommodation etc.)

One key question is whether the invited person can apply for the renewal of a suspended resident card or Visa after entering China.

Application for renewal of resident cards can be made online without being present in China. After entering China, application for renewal of Visa can be made, but approval/rejection depends on the concerned city’s Foreign Affairs Office.

The Chinese embassy in India has started accepting applications for Visa forms accompanied by the special invitation letters through VFS.

Apart from Vande Matram direct chartered flights of the Indian government through Air India, people can travel by transiting through other airports (better to confirm for transit policy of the concerned airport before booking the ticket.)