APEC Card: Facilitating Business Mobility in the Asia-Pacific Region
The APEC Business Travel Virtual Card (ABTVC) is a tool designed to facilitate business travel across the Asia-Pacific region, promoting trade and investment.
Benefits of the ABTVC
– Visa-free entry: Allows entry into participating economies for business purposes without needing an additional visa or permit.
– Priority airport treatment: Cardholders benefit from designated lanes and expedited immigration processing at major airports in participating countries.
– Eligibility extended: Spouses and adult children who work are also eligible to apply.
Validity and Conditions of Use
– The ABTVC is valid for the duration of the holder’s passport, up to a maximum of five years from issuance.
– It must be presented alongside a valid passport.
– Each entry permits a stay of up to 90 days.
Participating Economies
The following economies are part of the ABTVC system:
Australia | Brunei | China | Hong Kong | Indonesia | Japan | Korea | Malaysia | Mexico | New Zealand | Papua New Guinea | Peru | Philippines | Singapore | Thailand | Chinese Taipei | Vietnam | Chile
Important: The United States and Canada do not approve ABTVC applications but allow cardholders (approved by Australia) to use fast-track immigration lanes.
Requirements to Obtain the ABTVC
– Be a Chilean national with a valid passport (regular or official).
– Have no criminal record or convictions for crimes or misdemeanors.
– Be a businessperson or government official involved in APEC-related activities.
– Have no negative commercial background.
Definition of Businessperson: Individuals engaged in the trade of goods, provision of services, investment, or productive economic activities who frequently travel within the Asia-Pacific region.
Required Documentation
– Completed ABTC application form.
– Color passport-sized photo (4×4 cm).
– Copy of valid passport.
– Special-purpose criminal background certificate (from Civil Registry).
– Certificate from a business association confirming businessperson status, or for government officials, a certificate issued by APEC-DIRECOM (Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
– Proof of payment for the ABTVC.
Provisional Approval
– To speed up processing, applicants may select up to five economies for accelerated approval.
Conclusion
The ABTVC is a key tool for business mobility in the Asia-Pacific region, streamlining entry and reducing immigration processing time. Interested individuals are advised to review the requirements and submit their applications well in advance.
