China | Visa exemption policy expanded to nine more countries

Chinese officials announced a visa-free policy expansion to nine more countries as well as updates to the period of stay and scope of permitted activities.

Key Points:

• Beginning Nov. 30, 2024, through Dec. 31, 2025, the visa exemption will be applied to ordinary passport holders from Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Japan, Latvia, Malta, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia and Romania.
• Officials have also extended the period of visa-free stay allowed from the current 15 days to 30 days. Eligible travelers may now enter visa-free for business, cultural exchange, family visits, tourism or transit purposes for up to 30 days, effective Nov. 30.
• Finally, those entering under the visa waiver will now be permitted to engage in cultural exchange activities, which is currently not permitted for those entering visa-free.

Additional Information: A total of 38 countries are now included within the visa-free arrangement. As BAL reported, China has expanded the visa-free policy significantly this year to increase inbound travel from foreign tourists and drive business in its economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Government officials and official news agencies are reporting the ease of visa policies is increasing inbound travel and the number of foreign-invested enterprises.

BAL Analysis: The Chinese government is focusing on new visa-free schemes and enhancing tourism infrastructure to facilitate cross-border travel, increase inbound tourism to further economic development and encourage cultural exchanges. China is enhancing tourism infrastructure through new e-payment systems and reduced fees, simplified procedures and faster border entry services.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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