China | Visa exemption policy expanded

Chinese officials announced the expansion of the country’s visa-free policy to nationals of Australia, New Zealand and Poland.

Key Points:

• Nationals of these countries with ordinary passports may enter visa-free for business, tourism, family visits or transit purposes for up to 15 days effective July 1 through Dec. 31, 2025.
• Individuals who do not meet the visa exemption criteria are still required to obtain a Chinese visa prior to entry.
• There are no limits on the total number of entries as long as an individual does not exceed 15 total days and they are traveling for permitted visa waiver activities.

Background: The Chinese government has introduced various measures recently to increase inbound travel from foreign tourists and drive business in its economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Chinese officials recently announced the extension of its visa-free policy through Dec. 31, 2025, for 12 additional countries.

BAL Analysis: The 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.

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

Copyright © 2024 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.