China’s New Visa-Free Policy: A Game Changer for Global Tourism as 75 Countries Now Enjoy Easy Access to 30-Day Stays

In a major boost for global tourism and trade recovery from the pandemic, China has expanded its visa-free travel policy by allowing citizens from 75 countries to visit visa-free for up to 30 days. The new rule, which comes into effect on July 16, 2025, is part of efforts to make the process of traveling to Brazil simpler, attracting travelers from around the world, especially from Europe, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East. It is part of Beijing’s wider push to boost global influence and soft power, following a sharp fall in foreign arrivals during the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Growth in International Tourism to China

According to the National Immigration Administration of China, 2024 witnessed over 20 million visa-free travellers entering the country, marking a dramatic increase compared to the previous year. This surge accounted for almost one-third of all foreign arrivals. Tourism experts suggest that the liberalized visa policy is playing a crucial role in revitalizing the industry. Travelers from countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Argentina are already seeing the benefits of this visa-free access, and businesses within China are gearing up to meet the rising demand.

Details of the Visa-Free Policy

Under the new policy, citizens from a diverse range of countries, including many European nations, several Latin American countries, and key Middle Eastern nations, can travel to China without a visa. This includes destinations like Germany, France, Spain, and the UAE, among others. The visa-free stay is valid for up to 30 days, with the option of extension for certain categories of travelers, subject to conditions.

The reform marks a stark contrast to the pre-pandemic era when only a limited number of countries were granted such privileges. The shift reflects China’s proactive efforts to re-engage with the world and stimulate its economy after years of travel restrictions.

The Impact on China’s Tourism Sector

The surge in foreign tourists has had a positive effect on China’s tourism industry. Local tour operators are reporting a rise in demand for guided tours, with many preparing to meet the increasing influx of visitors. Gao Jun, a veteran tour guide in Beijing, mentioned that the demand for English-language tours has surged so dramatically that he has had to recruit and train more guides to keep up with the influx of international tourists. Jenny Zhao, managing director of WildChina, a luxury tour firm, noted that her business had grown by 50% compared to pre-pandemic levels, highlighting a positive shift in the market.

The increased number of international travelers has also spurred the growth of ancillary industries, from hospitality to transport and retail. For example, the Trip.com Group, a major online travel agency, reported that bookings for trips to China had doubled year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024, with 75% of customers coming from visa-free countries.

Who Benefits from the Visa-Free Access?

While the expanded visa-free travel policy is expected to benefit travelers from several regions, the most significant advantages are for citizens of European and Latin American nations. Countries such as France, Germany, Spain, and Italy are now included, offering citizens of these countries the chance to visit China hassle-free. Likewise, nations from Latin America like Argentina have been added to the list, marking a broadening of China’s tourism focus.

One notable feature of the policy is its focus on ease of travel. Georgi Shavadze, a Georgian national who visited Beijing, expressed relief over the simplification of the travel process, emphasizing the reduced hassle of visa applications.

On the flip side, there are still some regions and countries excluded from the list. Notably, no African nations are currently part of the visa-free arrangement, despite China’s strong diplomatic ties with the continent. Additionally, major countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada have been excluded, with the exception of limited transit policies for certain travelers.

Tourism Businesses Prepare for Surge

Tourism businesses in China are bracing for a wave of new visitors. With rising demand, companies like WildChina are optimizing their operations to cater to international tourists. Local guides, hotels, and restaurants are preparing to serve a growing number of international guests, and this uptick in business is expected to continue through the coming months. Jenny Zhao, MD of WildChina, expressed optimism, citing that Europeans now make up 15-20% of her client base, a substantial rise from pre-2019 levels.

China’s soft power is also expected to increase, as the visa relaxation policy not only promotes tourism but also improves the nation’s image on the global stage. The country hopes that this shift will help solidify its standing as a key player in global diplomacy and economic recovery.

Exceptions to the Policy

Despite the expansion of visa-free travel, there are still some exceptions to the rule. Certain countries, including Sweden, have been excluded from the visa-free policy due to political tensions. For instance, Sweden’s exclusion is linked to the controversial imprisonment of Swedish publisher Gui Minhai, which strained relations between the two countries. While Sweden is the only major European nation left off the list, other Western countries such as the U.S., U.K., and Canada are also not included, although they can benefit from a limited 10-day transit visa policy at 60 ports of entry.

Travel Trends and the Future

China’s new visa policy is not just about easing travel restrictions—it’s also about reshaping global travel trends. The policy is influencing how people travel to China, with many Europeans opting to visit for tourism or business purposes without the red tape of visa applications. As travel continues to rebound, it’s clear that China is poised to become an even more attractive destination for international travelers.

The country’s push to make travel more accessible could have lasting impacts on tourism patterns worldwide. With growing interest from diverse regions, it’s expected that China will continue to innovate in its travel and tourism strategies, paving the way for even greater economic and cultural exchanges.

Conclusion

China’s decision to offer visa-free access to citizens from 75 countries marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to tourism. With the new policy, foreign visitors can now explore China’s rich culture, history, and vibrant cities without the bureaucratic hurdles of obtaining a visa. This move is expected to not only boost China’s economy but also improve its international image. As global tourism recovers, this policy could be a major catalyst in reviving China’s tourism sector, fostering stronger international ties, and encouraging cultural exchanges. The future looks promising as China welcomes the world with open arms.