China has announced a significant expansion of its visa-free policy. From November 30, 2024, visitors from 38 countries can stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa. This move aims to boost tourism and strengthen international relations.

Starting November 30, 2024, China will expand its visa-free stay from 15 to 30 days. Nine additional countries will also join the list of nations eligible for visa-free entry. This move is part of China’s efforts to boost tourism and facilitate international exchanges.

Extended Visa-Free Stay

China’s decision to extend visa-free stays was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Travellers from eligible countries can now stay for 30 days without a visa, doubling the previous limit of 15 days.

This policy will be in effect from November 30, 2024, to December 31, 2025, on an experimental basis. The change is expected to make China a more attractive destination for both tourists and business travellers.

New Countries Added to the Visa-Free List

In addition to extending the stay period, China is expanding its list of eligible countries. Nine new nations will benefit from the visa-free policy, including:

• Bulgaria
• Romania
• Croatia
• Montenegro
• Northern Macedonia
• Malta
• Estonia
• Latvia
• Japan

This brings the total number of countries eligible for China’s visa-free entry to 38.

Visa-Free Policy Now Includes Exchange Visits

China is also introducing a new purpose of staying under the visa-free policy. Exchange visits, classified as “Type F” stays, will now be allowed without requiring a visa. This update is aimed at fostering educational and cultural exchanges between China and other nations.

A Growing List of Eligible Countries

The visa-free initiative began in December 2023, initially targeting travellers from six European countries—France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia. The program has expanded over the past year, with more countries joining the list.

From November 30, 2024, citizens from the following 38 countries will be able to stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa:

Significant Growth in Tourism

China’s visa-free policy has already boosted international tourism. In the third quarter of 2024, the country recorded 8.19 million foreign visitors, a 48.8% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Notably, 4.89 million of these travelers used the visa-free entry, representing a 78.6% year-on-year surge.

Who Needs a Visa?

While the extended visa-free stay is a welcome change, not all travelers will qualify. The Chinese Embassy in Japan clarified that those who do not meet the visa exemption criteria must apply for a visa before entering China.

Conclusion

China’s decision to extend the visa-free stay period and add new countries to the list is expected to encourage more international visits. With the inclusion of exchange visits as a valid reason for entry, China is opening its doors wider to global tourists, students, and business professionals.

This update represents a significant shift in China’s tourism policy, highlighting the country’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and boosting its tourism sector.