Turkey introduces visa-free regime for Chinese citizens from January 2, 2026. Learn about entry conditions, duration of stay and important restrictions for tourists

Starting from January 2, 2026, Turkey officially granted visa-free entry to citizens of the Republic of China. The decision was enshrined in a presidential decree signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and published in the Official Gazette.

The new rule significantly simplifies travel and replaces the previous electronic visa system, making trips to Turkey more accessible and flexible.

Read about the rules for visa-free travel from China to Turkey in this article.

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Main conditions of visa-free regime for Chinese citizens to Turkey

- Who can enter: Chinese citizens - holders of ordinary (civil) passports.

- Purpose of travel: tourism and transit.

- Maximum period of stay: up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

- Effective date: January 2, 2026

This means that for short-term trips, a valid passport and tickets are enough - without submitting applications, collecting documents and waiting for permission.

Why did Turkey make this decision now?

The introduction of visa-free regime has a clear strategic basis. Trade and economic relations between Turkey and China are actively developing - the volume of bilateral trade in 2024 exceeded 48 billion US dollars.

In parallel, the tourist flow is also growing rapidly. In 2025, the number of tourists from China increased by more than 60%, and the abolition of the visa barrier should help Turkey achieve the ambitious goal of 1 million Chinese tourists per year.

Representatives of the tourism industry call this decision historic, because it is focused not only on mass tourism, but also on attracting solvent individual travelers.

How did the tourism market react?

The effect of the announcement was instant. In the first hours after the publication of the decision, Chinese travel platforms recorded a multiple increase in search queries for flights to Turkey.

An additional factor in the growth of interest will be the Lunar New Year 2026, which falls in February - the traditional travel period for tourists from China. Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale and the Aegean coast are expecting a record number of visitors.

Read in this article what to see, when is the best time to go and where to stay in Cappadocia.

What does this mean for travelers?

The visa-free regime makes Turkey one of the most attractive destinations in the region thanks to a combination of several factors:

- Simple logistics: the number of flights between Turkey and China is increasing from 21 to 49 per week.

- Cultural adaptation: the tourism infrastructure is actively adapting to the needs of guests from Asia.

- Financial accessibility: compared to many Western European countries, Turkey offers a high level of service at competitive prices

Read what budget an expat needs to have to live in Turkey in this material.

Important to know: visa-free regime restrictions

Visa-free regime does not give the right to work, study or long-term residence. For employment, study or relocation, it is necessary to apply for a visa or residence permit in advance through consular offices.

The introduction of a visa-free regime for Chinese citizens from 2026 makes Turkey even more open and accessible to international travelers. The decision will contribute to the growth of tourism, economic ties and cultural exchange. For tourists, this means easier, faster and more comfortable travel without unnecessary bureaucracy.

The visa-free regime with Turkey from 2026 significantly simplifies entry, however, medical care for foreigners in Turkey is provided on a paid basis, especially in private clinics, which are most often used by tourists. Health insurance covers expenses in case of illness, injury or emergency care and protects your budget during your trip.

Choose a health insurance policy for Turkey and go on a risk-free trip.

Reminder! China has extended the cancellation of mandatory fingerprints for short-term visas until December 31, 2026. We have already told you which types of visas are subject to the simplification and who it does not apply to.

Photo – Freepik.com

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