Visa-free option gets stamp of approval

Throughout 2024, China steadily expanded its visa-free travel program, easing entry procedures for international visitors.

The updated policy, which took effect on Nov 30, allows travelers from 38 countries, including 32 European nations, to stay in China for up to 30 days visa-free, doubling the previous limit.

The significant change represents a transformative step in enhancing international tourism, fostering economic collaboration and advancing cultural diplomacy. Experts widely regard the development as a strategic effort to position China as a more accessible and appealing global destination.

The nation's visa-free policy has simplified travel to China by removing obstacles that have traditionally deterred potential tourists as well as business travelers.

Oliver Sedlinger, CEO of tourism consultancy firm Sedlinger & Associates, lauded the initiative as "wonderful news for the global travel industry". He noted that visas often act as barriers to international travel, adding, "Removing these obstacles will undoubtedly boost tourism and make China more appealing to travelers worldwide."

Statistics from the National Immigration Administration highlight the policy's early success. In the third quarter of 2024, foreigners made 8.186 million inbound trips to China, representing a 48.8 percent increase year-on-year. Of these, 4.885 million trips — an impressive 78.6 percent year-on-year rise — were facilitated by the visa-free policy, according to data released by the administration in mid-October.

During the first half of 2024, inbound trips totaled 14.635 million, marking a staggering 152.7 percent year-on-year growth. Among these, 8.542 million entries, reflecting a 190.1 percent increase, were made under the visa-free policy.

Altogether, foreign travelers made 22.821 million inbound trips to China during the first three quarters of 2024. Of this total, 58.8 percent — or 13.427 million trips - were facilitated by the visa-free policy, based on NIA data calculations.

"Introducing favorable visa policies is a smart move by China," Sedlinger said. "Many countries have implemented similar measures to great effect. These policies act as crucial levers for developing local tourism industries and maximizing their potential."

While awareness of the changes may take time to spread, Sedlinger remains optimistic: "With all the cultural and natural attractions that China has to offer, I am convinced there is a huge, sustainable potential for further development, and this potential is now being unlocked by removing the visa hurdle."

China's visa-free policy is enhanced by its 240-hour visa-free transit option, which allows travelers from 54 countries — including Russia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada — to explore major transit hubs like Beijing and Shanghai for up to ten days without a visa, as they transit to a third country. This combined approach makes China especially attractive to foreign travelers looking for shorter or more spontaneous trips.