Launch of scheme to streamline Visa process

A new pilot scheme launches on the 1^st July to streamline the visa application process for Chinese tourists wishing to visit the UK for business or leisure in a bid to boost visitor numbers and spend.

The BHA (British Hospitality Association) have welcomed the move after running a long campaign to simplify the process for Chinese visitors. The trade association estimates that the UK loses out on £1.2 billion each year as it fails to attract as many Chinese tourists as other major European Countries.

The timing of the pilot scheme is very important as a recent survey has shown a 17% decrease in the number of Chinese visitors to the UK in 2014 compared to figures for 2013 , this has lead to a significant drop in spend affecting all areas of the hospitality and tourism industry.