China To Block Most Foreigners From Entering Country

The Foreign Ministry on Thursday said China will block most foreigners from entering the mainland -- including those with valid visas and residence permits -- to stem the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. The measures will take effect from Saturday.

Entry by foreign nationals with APEC business cards will also be suspended, as will a number of transit visas and visa-free arrangements. It's the latest in a series of measures announced on Thursday that also make it harder for Chinese citizens to travel overseas and return home.

The foreign ministry stressed the suspension was a temporary measure that China had been compelled to take in light of the outbreak. The only exceptions appear to be for diplomats - though it said foreign nationals coming to China for necessary trade, economic, scientific, technological or humanitarian needs could still apply.

The new restrictions were announced shortly after the mainland's civil aviation authority said China would also drastically cut its international flight routes to stop imported virus cases. Flights out of China will be capped at just one route a week to each country, with international airlines also permitted only one route.

And, Guangdong authorities say all arrivals from overseas - including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan - must now undergo quarantine and testing from 6 am on Friday. The arrivals are to be quarantined at designated locations for 14 days - with expenses paid by the person in quarantine.

(with additional reporting from AFP and Xinhua)