Bill would strip visa-free entry for Chinese passport holders in Guam

What does this do?

HR 7780 would require all Chinese passport holders, including those from Hong Kong and Macau, to obtain a valid visa before entering the United States. The bill would end the existing visa waiver program that allows Chinese tourists to visit Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands without a visa. It would also block any similar programs from being created or funded in the future.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects Chinese tourists, students, and business travelers who currently use or could use visa-free entry, particularly in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. American businesses, universities, and the economies of those U.S. territories would also be affected.

Why does it matter?

Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands rely heavily on tourism from China, so ending visa-free entry could have economic consequences for those territories. The added visa requirement could also reduce the number of Chinese visitors reaching American businesses and universities that depend on that travel.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Future visa waiver programs blocked from funding

Where does it stand?