Nov. 13, 2014—The United States and China have agreed to extend visas for short-term visitors between the two countries starting November 12, 2014.

US consulates in China will now issue F-1 and J-1 visas that are valid for 5 years, up from 1 year. F-2 and J-2 dependents are eligible for the same extension in visa validity.

In addition, the validity of B-1 and B-2 short-term visitor visas is being extended from 1 year to 10 years.

The State Department expects that these changes will increase the visa workload, so please plan for possible delays in processing times at US consulates in China.