In recent years there has been an increase inthe number of foreigners entering China tovisit their relatives. This has prompted thegovernment to issue new regulations to facilitatethe travel of these foreigners. Starting from June 1,foreigners with close relatives in China can applyfor residence permits, according to Ministry ofPublic Security. The new multi-entry permit willbe valid up to two years and can also be extendedwhen it expires. Under previous regulations,foreigners visiting family applied for an “L visa,”which was valid for one year and had entry/exitlimitations.