China Extends Visa-Free Stays to 30 Days and Adds Nine New Countries to Policy

Travelers planning trips to China have something to celebrate: from November 30, 2024, the visa-free stay duration in China will increase from 15 days to 30 days, while nine additional countries will be included in the visa waiver program. This policy, announced by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, marks an effort to boost international exchanges and tourism in the country.

Expanded Visa-Free Access

China’s updated visa-free policy will now apply to citizens of 38 countries, including Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan. This extension allows travelers from these countries to visit China for tourism, business, and exchange visits without the need for a visa, provided they meet the outlined conditions.

Exchange visits (Type “F”) will now be officially recognized as a purpose of stay under the visa exemption program, further broadening the scope of eligible travel purposes.

The policy will be implemented experimentally, effective November 30, 2024, and running until December 31, 2025.

A Growing List of Visa-Free Nations

Initially launched in December 2023 for six countries—France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia—the visa-free program has gradually expanded to include other nations. This extension aims to facilitate international travel and strengthen China’s ties with these countries.

Citizens of the following 38 nations and territories will enjoy visa-free access to China for up to 30 days:

• Europe: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland.
• Asia-Pacific: Australia, Brunei, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea.

The Chinese Embassy emphasizes that visas must still be obtained before arrival for travelers who do not qualify under the visa waiver scheme.

Boosting Tourism and Foreign Visits

China’s decision to expand its visa-free access coincides with a significant rebound in foreign visits. In the third quarter of 2024, the country welcomed 8.19 million international visitors—a 48.8% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Of these, 4.89 million entered under the visa-free program, reflecting a 78.6% year-on-year growth.

A Strategic Move

This enhanced visa policy underscores China’s efforts to stimulate tourism and foster international collaboration. By offering extended stays and broadening the eligibility criteria, the country is signaling its readiness to welcome more global travelers.

With these changes, China is poised to become an even more accessible destination for tourism, business, and cultural exchanges, solidifying its position as a top choice for international travel in 2024 and beyond.