Launch of Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently announced the launch of the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) website for early enrollments. Beginning November 29, 2016, all individuals with a People's Republic of China issued passport bearing a 10-year B1/B2, B1 or B2 (visitor) visa must have a valid EVUS enrollment when traveling to the U.S. Enrollment will be verified upon check-in for the first flight, for individuals taking more than one flight to reach the U.S. Nationals of the People's Republic of China seeking to enter the U.S. through land or sea ports must enroll as well. Until November 29, travelers may continue to travel to the U.S. without the enrollment.

What is EVUS?

EVUS is the online system used to update basic biographic information and to facilitate travel to the U.S. for nationals of the People's Republic of China who hold a 10-year B1/B2, B1 or B2 (visitor) visa. EVUS enrollments are valid for two years, or until the individual obtains a new visa or passport, whichever comes first.

CBP encourages travelers to enroll when they begin planning a trip to the U.S., in order to avoid delays. Travelers may submit enrollment at any time. Users will typically receive a response from the system within minutes, but some responses may take up to 72 hours.

EVUS is similar to the process that individuals from 38 other countries must follow before traveling to the U.S. Chinese travelers must update their information at least every two years, or upon obtaining a new passport. Otherwise, they will not be able to use their 10-year visas. The enrollment contains basic biographic questions.

Is there a fee for EVUS enrollment?

At this time, CBP will not collect a fee for enrollment, but CBP will implement a fee eventually. Until implementation of the fee, individuals can enroll without charge.