China has significantly expanded its visa-free travel policies, welcoming citizens from 47 countries to enter without a visa for short-term stays in 2025. This move, aimed at boosting tourism and fostering international exchanges, marks a bold step in China’s post-pandemic reopening strategy.
Unilateral Visa-Free Policy: 43 Countries
As of November 30, 2024, China’s unilateral visa-free policy allows citizens from 38 countries to stay for up to 30 days for purposes including tourism, business, family visits, cultural exchanges, and transit. This policy, effective until December 31, 2025, was recently expanded to include Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan. Additionally, from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026, citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay will also enjoy 30-day visa-free access.
The full list of 43 countries under the unilateral visa-free policy includes:
- Asia: Brunei, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan
- Western Europe: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland
- Eastern Europe and Baltics: Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia
- Southern Europe: Cyprus, Greece, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia
- Other: Andorra, Australia, Liechtenstein, Monaco, New Zealand, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay
Starting June 9, 2025, until June 8, 2026, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Saudi Arabia will also join this list, bringing the total to 47 countries.
Mutual Visa Exemption Agreements: 9 Countries
China has mutual visa exemption agreements with nine countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days, with some restricted to 90 days within a 180-day period or calendar year. These countries are Singapore, Thailand, Georgia, Maldives, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Serbia, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. The Solomon Islands joined this list on December 28, 2024, after finalizing its agreement.
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Visa-Free Transit and Regional Policies
China’s 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy, expanded in December 2024, applies to 54 countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, across 60 ports in 24 provinces. Travelers must have a valid passport, a confirmed onward ticket to a third country, and enter via designated ports. Additionally, 59 countries can access Hainan for 30 days visa-free, while ASEAN nations can join 6-day visa-free group tours in Guilin and Xishuangbanna.
Impact on Tourism and Global Relations
China’s visa-free initiatives have spurred a surge in inbound tourism, with 8.19 million foreign visitors in Q3 2024, a 48.8% increase year-on-year, of which 4.89 million entered visa-free. Experts note that these policies not only boost tourism but also enhance cultural and economic ties. “China’s openness signals a commitment to global collaboration,” said Huang Songshan, a professor at Edith Cowan University.
Travel Tips for Visa-Free Visitors
Travelers must hold a valid ordinary passport for the entire stay, with at least six months’ validity recommended. Required documents may include return tickets or hotel reservations. Those staying in private accommodations must register with local police within 24 hours. For extended stays or purposes like work or study, a visa is still required.
Plan Your 2025 China Adventure
With iconic destinations like Beijing’s Forbidden City, Shanghai’s skyline, and Zhangjiajie’s breathtaking landscapes, China offers diverse experiences for visa-free travelers. Whether for business or leisure, now is the perfect time to explore the world’s second-largest economy.
For the latest updates on China’s visa policies, visit the China Briefing or check with your local Chinese embassy.