China has expanded its visa-free regime for citizens of 38 countries, allowing visa-free travel for up to 30 days. This has led to a significant increase in the flow of tourists, especially from Europe and Southeast Asia. The simplified entry policy has already changed global trends in tourism and business, promoting the development of cultural exchanges and international travel. Find out how these changes are affecting the global tourism industry and what travelers can expect in 2025

Order a consultation with a migration specialist to avoid unpleasant situations during the move

Buy

Travelers planning to visit China have witnessed significant changes in the rules for entering the country. The People’s Republic of China has expanded its visa-free policy, allowing citizens of 38 countries to travel without a visa for up to 30 days. And while many experts believed that this step would not significantly affect the global travel market, recent statistics show the opposite.

The change in migration policy has attracted the attention of travelers who are always looking for simplified entry procedures and has made China one of the most accessible tourist destinations. With a significant increase in the flow of tourists, including from Tajikistan and Azerbaijan, and growing interest in the country’s cultural and natural attractions, this move will change global tourism trends for the coming years.

Planning a trip abroad? Choose a reliable health insurance policy on the Visit World portal.

China’s Visa-Free Policy in 2025

Over the past year, China has been actively expanding its visa-free policy. Initially, the visa waivers only applied to six countries – France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. The list was later expanded to 38 countries.

These changes have allowed foreign tourists to visit China without the hassle of obtaining visas for business trips, tourism and cultural exchanges. Travelers who previously faced delays in obtaining visas can now enter China without difficulty, making the country even more attractive to tourists.

How has China’s visa-free regime affected the tourism industry?

According to data from the National Immigration Administration of China (NIA), the number of cross-border trips by foreigners increased by 82.9% in 2024, reaching 64.88 million. It is important to note that more than 20 million of these trips were visa-free, a 112.3% increase from the previous year:

- During the 2024 Chinese New Year, 3.43 million international tourists from 175 countries and regions visited China.

- Online travel agencies such as Ctrip saw a 203% increase in outbound bookings compared to the previous year.

The data refutes doubts about the effectiveness of China’s visa-free policy, demonstrating the high demand for travel to China, especially among those who previously hesitated due to complicated visa procedures.

How has China’s visa-free policy been promoted?

Social media has played a key role in promoting China’s visa-free policy. The hashtag #ChinaTravel has garnered over 1 billion views as foreigners actively share their experiences traveling to China, exploring its landscapes, historical sites, and cities.

For many tourists, ease of entry has become a major factor in choosing a destination. Now, with the visa-free regime, planning a trip has become much easier, which has led to a significant increase in inbound tourism.

First-time travelers to China return

Tourists who have taken advantage of the visa-free regime often report that their experience in China has exceeded all expectations. Many have become regular visitors to the country, exploring not only well-known cities like Beijing and Shanghai, but also more remote places like China’s Qinghai-Sizan Plateau. This shows that the visa-free policy not only attracts new travelers but also encourages repeat visits.

Impact of China’s Visa-Free Policy on International Tourism

For foreign travelers, especially from countries with visa requirements, the ease of entry into China has become an important signal of accessibility. Traditionally, obtaining a Chinese visa has been difficult and costly, which has deterred tourists.

The introduction of a visa-free regime has a serious impact on the global tourism industry:

1. Increased demand for air travel to China, as airlines expand routes to meet the growing flow of passengers.

2. Increased bookings for package tours, especially from Europe, Southeast Asia and North America.

3. A change in the direction of tourist flows, in particular, more travelers choose China instead of traditional visa-free countries in Asia and Europe.

In addition, international tour operators are already offering special packages for those who want to take advantage of the new visa-free opportunities.

A turning point for business and cultural exchanges

China’s visa-free policy not only promotes tourism, but also stimulates international business travel and cultural exchanges. Businesspeople who previously had to wait for a visa can now quickly enter China to conduct negotiations or conclude deals. Students and researchers also benefit from a simplified entry process that allows them to participate in educational and scientific programs.

China’s changing position in global tourism

The expansion of visa-free travel is a strategic move by China to revive its tourism industry and strengthen the country’s position as one of the world’s leaders in affordable travel. The change is expected to have a significant impact on other countries, encouraging them to liberalize their visa policies.

What can travelers planning to travel to China in 2025 expect?

For travelers planning to travel to China in the coming months, it is important to understand:

1. China’s visa-free regime is available to citizens of 38 countries, with the possibility of staying in the country for up to 30 days.

2. The growth of foreign arrivals to China is 80% in 2024, which indicates a high interest in China as a tourist destination.

3. Travel agencies report that tours are fully booked for months in advance, so plan your trip in advance.

4. Thanks to the abolition of visa requirements, business trips and academic exchanges are gaining popularity.

In 2025, as global tourism recovers, China’s visa-free policy is expected to attract even more travelers and change tourism trends at the global level.

Planning a trip or moving abroad? A travel insurance policy is an important component of a successful trip, as it guarantees high-quality medical care anywhere in the world and can protect you from unnecessary expenses during your trip.

Buy insurance from trusted agents on the Visit World portal!

Recall! In 2024, China actively worked to attract tourists by simplifying migration policies. We have already told you which countries are eligible to travel to China without a visa and what the rules will be for 2025.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.