CHINA: In a bid to attract more international visitors and bolster diplomatic relations, China has significantly expanded its visa-free transit policy.
According to Travel and Tour World, as of December 2024, travellers from 54 countries—including major global players like the US, UK, Canada, and Russia—can now stay in China for up to 10 days (240 hours) without a visa, provided they are transiting to a third country.
This new provision is available at 60 ports of entry across 24 provinces, making China more accessible to tourists from around the world.
This move is part of China’s broader strategy to revive its tourism industry, which was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border restrictions.
With China now easing its travel rules, the country is rolling out various initiatives to entice international tourists back, helping to stimulate its economy and promote cross-cultural exchange.
Extension of visa-free travel
While China has previously offered visa-free stays for certain nationalities, the recent expansion widens the scope significantly. Starting November 2024, citizens from 38 countries—including Australia, Malaysia, and Japan—can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days.
This development offers greater flexibility for travellers exploring China for business, tourism, or family purposes, marking a crucial step in the country’s efforts to foster international connections and reduce travel barriers.
The expanded visa-free policy has already shown promising results. According to Chinese government reports, inbound tourism has surged, with nearly 29.22 million international visitors arriving in 2024, an 86.2% increase from the previous year.
Remarkably, over 17.45 million travellers benefited from the new visa-free transit option, leading to a 123.3% rise in arrivals from 2023.
Effects on the travel industry
The policy has already begun to transform the travel landscape in China.
Leading online travel agency Qunar reported a near tripling of bookings for domestic flights by foreign travellers compared to the same period in 2023.
This trend suggests that China’s attractions are drawing increasing interest, with over 10% of these visitors returning for repeat trips, signaling long-term appeal.
This boost in tourism is not only beneficial for China’s hospitality and travel sectors but also for the nation’s broader economic growth.
By welcoming more tourists, China fosters cultural exchange and enhances mutual understanding with other countries.
The economic impact is evident as the tourism industry injects significant revenue into the local economy, supporting businesses in sectors ranging from transportation to hospitality.
Growing global travel trends
China’s expansion of its visa-free policy also has broader implications for global travel.
In the post-pandemic era, countries around the world are recognizing the importance of easing travel barriers to help recover from the effects of COVID-19.
China’s proactive stance in facilitating easier access for international tourists reflects its commitment to being a global tourism hub.
Moreover, this move underscores China’s broader goals of promoting international collaboration and economic integration.
By attracting more visitors, China strengthens its global relationships, both economically and culturally.
This shift is part of a growing trend where countries are reducing visa requirements, understanding that easing entry policies can stimulate tourism and foster deeper global connections.
Looking ahead
With these developments, China’s tourism sector is set to continue growing, driven by the rise in visa-free travel.
The increasing number of international visitors suggests a strong demand for China’s rich cultural experiences and scenic landscapes.
As more countries follow China’s lead in implementing or expanding visa-free policies, global tourism will become even more accessible, benefiting both travellers and host nations.
With this trend of open borders spreading, other countries will likely adopt similar policies to enhance their tourism industries and promote international cooperation.
This global movement will help reduce travel barriers and encourage cultural exchange, ultimately fostering a more interconnected world.