‘Ideological disparities and discrimination’ to blame for Chinese trouble getting visas, says consular official

Amid ongoing complaints from Chinese mainlanders about the tiny number of no-visa entry destinations offered by their passports, a Foreign Ministry official says “discrimination” and ideological differences are to blame for Chinese facing trouble getting foreign visas.

“This [mindset] has led them to adopt a ‘prevent and control’ visa policy towards our citizens … reflected by the substantial materials required, more stringent scrutiny, and prolonged application process,” said Huang, who is also in charge of providing consular assistance and protection for overseas Chinese citizens.

His comment was apparently in response to those angered by the prolonged and troublesome visa application process. Many have lamented why so few countries allow them to travel freely, despite China becoming the world’s second largest economy and arguably in position to be the next superpower. Such sentiments are often reinforced prior to long holidays in China as people plan their trips.

As of the beginning of this year, twenty countries grant Chinese passport holders visa-free entries, with Bahamas and Thailand expected to be added to the list soon. In addition some two dozen countries and territories also grant visa-on-arrival access or their equivalent to Chinese citizens.