The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), announced a new reporting system for B-1/B-2 visitors from the People’s Republic of China (China). This new online reporting system is called the Electronic Visa Update System (“EVUS”).
EVUS will take effect in November 2016. Those traveling to the United States on a passport issued by the People’s Republic of China with a 10-year B1/B2 visa must enroll with the EVUS, no matter where they currently reside. Failure to enroll with the EVUS could delay admission into the United States.
The CBP encourages 10-year B1/B2 visa holders from China to enroll in EVUS at least one week before traveling. EVUS enrollment will be available online in a secured website in both English and Mandarin but the information requested must be provided in English. Chinese travelers will have to provide biographical information (holder’s name, birth date, and passport information for example) as well as employment information. The website is pending as of this time.
There will be a nominal fee for enrolling in EVUS in order to cover the cost of operating the system. Enrollment in EVUS is valid for two years or until the traveler’s visa or passport expire, whichever comes first. The B1/B2 China travelers will then have to update their information again before traveling to the United States.
To monitor the most up to date EVUS information, you can access the CBP website at www.cbp.gov/EVUS, or please contact SW Law Group if you have any further questions regarding these developments.