Chinese Nationals with 10-Year B-1/B-2s Subject to EVUS

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has released information on the initiation of an Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS). EVUS is designed to allow those enrolled in the program to update the biographical information of visas. EVUS is scheduled to start in November 2016 and, at the outset, will apply solely to any citizen of China holding a 10-year B-1, B-2, or B-1/B-2 visitor visa.

Background on EVUS

The EVUS requirement stems from a November 2014 United States / China reciprocal arrangement for the issuance of 10-year, multiple entry visas for business / pleasure visitors. Chinese citizens issued such visas will be required to periodically update certain biographical information through EVUS. EVUS is being tested first with Chinese passport holders and, assuming the program proves successful, will likely be expanded to other countries and visa classifications.

PRC Passport Holders Subject to EVUS from Nov 2016

As of November 2016, individuals who travel using a People’s Republic of China (PRC) passport with a 10-year B-1, B-2, or B-1/B-2 visa will need to complete the EVUS form. This will not affect travelers using Hong Kong special administrative region (SAR), Macau SAR, or Taiwan passports. This requirement applies without consideration of the date of visa issuance. Thus, even those with qualifying visas issued prior to November 2016 will need to comply with these requirements.

EVUS to be Completed in English

The EVUS website will be in both Mandarin and English; however, the questions must be answered in English. The EVUS enrollment includes the individual’s name, birth date, passport information, and other biographical information, including employment. There will be a fee, described as nominal, for enrollment.

EVUS Valid for Up to Two Years

The EVUS enrollment will be valid for two years, or until the visa or passport expires, whichever comes first. Applicants should not wait until the last minute to enroll and comply with EVUS, as this could delay travel plans. As more information becomes available, applicants should check the CBP WebSite for enrollment instructions.

Conclusion

The EVUS system is likely to expand to other nationalities and visa types, depending on the outcome of this pilot program. Those who are subject to this requirement must be mindful of the need to enroll and renew in order to avoid problems and delays when traveling.

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