Visa-Free Travel To China Extended To 2025
In a further move to jump-start the tourism industry and revitalise its travel sector and international influence, China has extended visa-free travel for 11 European countries and Malaysia until the end of 2025.
The visa-free scheme has been announced in stages since the start of 2024 and was initially set to last for one year.
Nationals of Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland will now be allowed unrestricted entry for up to 15 days until the end of next year.
China’s visa-free policy encompasses various travel purposes, including tourism, business engagements, visiting relatives and friends, or transit. This flexibility aligns with China's broader strategy to promote high-quality exchanges between Chinese and foreign individuals, fostering a more open relationship with the global community.
According to China's Foreign Ministry, the measures are designed “to facilitate the high-quality development of Chinese and foreign personnel exchanges and high-level opening up to the outside world.”
China's efforts to facilitate foreigners visiting the country have delivered positive initial results. Last year saw a surge in interest in China as a tourist destination among Europeans.
In addition to extending the visa-free period, China is actively promoting the opening and resumption of international routes to facilitate the increased movement of people. According to media reports, direct flights between Shanghai and Marseille will officially open on July 2, providing the first direct air passage for the two cities.
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