The disappearing PU letter

Things are getting a bit simpler for many foreigners coming to work in China.

Effective yesterday, June 6, many Chinese consulates abroad are no longer requiring foreigners to submit invitation letters with their applications for Z visas (work visas). The change in policy applies to new employees as well as employees who want to return to China but had their resident permits expire while overseas. This new policy also applies to visa applications for spouses and minor dependents of the new and returning employees.

The invitation letters, commonly called “PU letters”, usually require submitting an application to the local science and technology authorities and then getting an approval from the local Foreign Affairs Office. The elimination of the need for invitation letters could expediate the process of employees arriving in China up to two months. 

Official announcement of the change is policy is expected to be posted on the websites of the consulates that adopt the new policy.

For the time being, foreign business travelers will still be required to get invitation letters to visit China.