In a significant move to revitalize its economy, China announced on Friday that it will expand visa-free entry to nine additional countries, bringing the total number of countries with such access to 38. Starting November 30, travelers from Bulgaria, Romania, Malta, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan will be eligible for visa-free visits of up to 30 days, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian.
Key Highlights of the New Visa Policy
1. Extended Length of Stay
The maximum visa-free stay has been extended from 15 to 30 days, providing greater flexibility for both tourists and business travelers.
2. Inclusion of Japan
Japan’s inclusion in the visa-free list signals improving diplomatic ties between the two countries. Relations have been tense, especially over Taiwan and Japan’s release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant. However, a September 2023 agreement between China and Japan appears to have paved the way for renewed cooperation.
Japan had visa-free access before the COVID-19 pandemic, and its government had been advocating for reinstatement. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi expressed optimism, hoping the decision would facilitate smoother exchanges and enhance bilateral relations.
3. New Eligibility for Exchange Programs
For the first time, individuals participating in student, academic, and cultural exchange programs will also benefit from visa-free entry, reflecting China’s emphasis on strengthening people-to-people ties.
A Gradual Reopening Post-COVID
China’s stringent entry restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic were lifted much later than in most countries. The phased reopening began in July 2023 with the reinstatement of visa-free access for Brunei and Singapore and expanded in December 2023 to include European nations like France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain, as well as Malaysia.
Between July and September 2024, China recorded 8.2 million foreign entries, with 4.9 million taking advantage of visa exemptions, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
Broader Implications for Global Tourism
China’s efforts to ease travel restrictions align with similar initiatives in other countries, such as Thailand, which introduced visa-free entry for Chinese tourists to attract more visitors. These reciprocal policies are expected to stimulate tourism, boost bilateral trade, and contribute to global economic recovery.
