China is opening its doors to the world even wider. The other day, Australia and the People's Republic of China agreed on the simplification of the visa regime between the countries. Find out what will change for tourists from both countries in 2024

Every year, millions of Chinese citizens travel the world and explore new countries. At the same time, travelers from different countries dream of a trip to China. China is a major player in world tourism. Travel is only complicated by visa requirements, which the government has been trying to simplify in recent years. In particular, the other day, Australia and China signed a document on simplifying the visa regime. Australia has become the latest country to join China's Visa Waiver Program.

What will change for tourists? Let's talk further.

China to add Australia to its “Visa Waiver Program”

Chinese Premier Li Qiang said during an official visit to Australia that the governments of the two countries have agreed to provide each other with mutual access to five-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business and visiting family members to better facilitate inter-state exchanges. Also, China will include Australia in its "Visa Waiver Program".

The details of the new agreement are still unknown, but it is already clear that Australia, like New Zealand, will join the list of countries with which China has established a visa-free regime.

Which countries participate in the Chinese "Visa Waiver Program"?

In November 2023, China introduced a one-year trial visa-free regime for citizens of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia.

In March, China expanded the program to include Ireland, Switzerland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg.

With the recent addition of Australia and New Zealand, the number of countries that enjoy visa-free entry to China now stands at 14.

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Conditions of "Visa-free programs in China"

China initially announced visa-free travel for a trial period until November 30, 2024, but has now extended it until December 31, 2025.

Passport holders of these countries can stay in China for up to 15 days for tourism, business, family trips or transit.

How else has China simplified visa requirements?

In addition to the above changes, China has also signed a visa waiver agreement with Singapore and Thailand. It entered into force on March 1 and allowed tourists to stay in the state for 30 days.

Visa requirements have also been eased for US citizens visiting the country on tourist visas. From now on, travelers do not need to provide proof of round-trip tickets, hotel reservations, travel itinerary or invitation letter.

Additionally, the Chinese government has relaxed entry rules for tourists arriving on cruise ships. From May 15, such visitors can stay in China without visas for up to 15 days.

All these initiatives are aimed at restoring the tourism sector of the country, which has suffered significantly after the pandemic. In addition to introducing new visa-free programs, China is investing in improving tourism infrastructure, technology and electronic payment systems to provide a convenient environment for European tourists. Such initiatives are aimed at promoting the multifaceted cultural and historical heritage of China.

We will remind you that we talked about the available types of visas and the required package of documents for moving to China in 2024 in this article.