Sunday, May 18, 2025

has officially expanded its visa-free travel policy in 2025, allowing citizens from Brazil, Japan, Estonia, Croatia, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, Australia, and thirty-five more countries to enter the country without a visa for up to thirty days. This sweeping reform is part of China’s strategic initiative to revitalize international tourism, boost business exchanges, and strengthen global cultural connections after the pandemic. The updated visa waiver applies to visits for tourism, business, family reunions, cultural exchange, and short-term transit, offering travelers a more flexible, simplified, and accessible way to explore Mainland China. With this move, China positions itself as a globally connected and visitor-friendly destination, encouraging millions more to discover its rich heritage, modern cities, and expanding opportunities.

China is taking major steps to attract more international visitors by expanding its visa-free travel policy. The latest updates are set to significantly streamline entry for both leisure and business travelers, making it easier to explore the country’s diverse heritage, modern cities, and growing economic opportunities.

Under the revised policy, citizens from several South American, European, and Asian nations will be able to enter Mainland China without a visa for up to , effective across a broad travel window. This applies to trips taken for tourism, business, family visits, cultural exchanges, and short-term transit.

In a groundbreaking move that strengthens China’s ties with Latin America, have been granted visa-free status. Starting from , passport holders from the following countries may enter China without a visa for up to thirty days:

This initiative opens new doors for bilateral engagement and encourages more South American travelers to discover the scenic landscapes, historic temples, and bustling metropolises of China. Whether traveling for business meetings, family reunions, educational exchanges, or sightseeing, eligible citizens can now enjoy hassle-free entry and greater freedom of movement.

Further enhancing its global outreach, China has also introduced visa exemptions for , including . From , citizens of these countries will be allowed visa-free entry for stays of up to thirty days:

This visa waiver applies to multiple types of visits, including tourism, business engagements, cultural exchange events, and visits to family or friends. The move is expected to boost international collaboration and facilitate stronger economic and cultural ties with countries across Europe and Asia.

In addition to the country-specific exemptions, China has also simplified its 24-hour visa-free transit policy. Travelers from any nationality can now enjoy a layover in China without a visa, provided their stay does not exceed twenty-four hours. This new measure is particularly attractive for international passengers transiting through major Chinese hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Chengdu.

This update is part of China’s broader effort to improve international connectivity and position itself as a more accessible travel destination amid the global rebound in tourism.

China has significantly expanded its visa-free travel policy in 2025, granting citizens from forty-three countries the ability to enter the country without a visa for up to thirty days. This initiative reflects China’s ongoing efforts to boost inbound tourism and enhance global business connectivity.

Below is the full breakdown of visa-exempt countries by region:

This expanded list underscores China’s commitment to restoring international tourism and strengthening global partnerships after the challenges of the pandemic. By offering easier and visa-free entry to a wide range of nations, China is enhancing its position as a globally connected and traveler-friendly destination.

China has introduced a series of sweeping visa reforms designed to make travel smoother and more accessible for visitors from across the globe. These updated policies not only encourage tourism and business, but also foster deeper cultural ties through easier entry procedures. Here’s a detailed look at how the visa exemption and transit allowances function in 2025.

China now permits nationals from dozens of eligible countries to enter , provided their visit meets specific criteria.

Although the policy now includes , it does allow paid employment or academic study. Travelers planning to work or study in China must apply for the appropriate visa type in advance.

In a major enhancement of global accessibility, China has broadened its to include travellers of every nationality. This initiative is especially useful for those connecting between continents and looking to explore Chinese cities during short layovers.

How the 24-Hour Transit Works:

This measure makes China an increasingly attractive transit hub for intercontinental travelers, offering a chance to briefly experience cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou without visa complications.

In addition to the 24-hour policy, China continues to offer a 10-day visa-free transit to passport holders from fifty-four countries, including:

This extended transit option is available at sixty ports spread across twenty-four provinces, making it convenient for longer stopovers or business meetings en route to another destination.

Travelers using this option must have:

• A valid passport from an eligible country
• A confirmed onward ticket to a third country
• Proof of accommodation for the duration of the layover

Final Thoughts: A New Era of Travel Convenience

Whether you’re setting off for a tour of the Forbidden City, heading to a conference in Shenzhen, or simply passing through on your way to Southeast Asia, China’s new visa policies represent a major shift in how the country engages with the world. With broader eligibility, multiple transit options, and longer stay periods, it’s never been easier for global travelers to experience the rich culture, heritage, and modern marvels of Mainland China—without the need for traditional visa applications.