How Do I Renew My APEC Business Travel Card?

By Robert Palmer

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card (ABTC) is an important document for business travelers in the APEC region. It serves as a visa exemption and allows holders to travel between member economies with ease. However, an ABTC must be renewed every three years to remain valid.

The renewal process is straightforward, but there are a few steps that need to be taken in order to successfully renew your card. The first step is to contact the issuing economy and obtain an application form. This form should be completed and sent back to the issuing economy along with proof of current employment or business activities in the APEC region.

Once the application has been approved, the applicant will need to submit their passport for authentication and pay a renewal fee. Applicants should keep in mind that this fee may vary depending on their country of residence, so it is important to check with the issuing economy beforehand. After these steps have been completed, the applicant will receive their renewed ABTC within two weeks of submitting their application and payment.

It is also important for applicants to remember that if they plan on travelling outside of their home economy while their ABTC is being processed, they may need to obtain a visa from their destination country as well as renewing their ABTC. Additionally, if any of the information on the application form has changed since it was initially submitted, applicants must inform the issuing economy before submitting their renewal application.

Conclusion:
Renewing an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) is a relatively simple process that requires applicants to contact the issuing economy, complete an application form, submit proof of current employment or business activities in the APEC region and pay a renewal fee. Additionally, if travelling while awaiting renewal they may also need to obtain a visa from their destination country. Following these steps will ensure that applicants receive their renewed ABTC within two weeks of submission.