China Expands Visa-Free Entry to 9 More Countries Starting November 8

In a major step to enhance global tourism and business relations, China has announced visa-free entry for citizens of nine additional countries, effective November 8, 2024. This move further strengthens China’s efforts to simplify travel and boost international exchanges.

Visa-Free Entry in China

Visa-free entry allows citizens of specific countries to visit China for a limited time without obtaining a visa. This policy aims to promote tourism and business exchanges, simplifying short-term visits for approved nationals.

How It Works

Eligible travellers can enter China for up to 15 days without a visa, for purposes like business, tourism, family visits, or transit. This policy applies to designated countries and remains effective until the end of 2025.

New Countries Added to Visa-Free Program

Starting from November 8, citizens from the below countries can enter China without a visa for up to 15 days.

1. South Korea
2. Norway
3. Finland
4. Slovakia
5. Denmark
6. Iceland
7. Andorra
8. Monaco
9. Liechtenstein

This new policy allows travellers to visit for business, tourism, family visits, or transit, making China an even more accessible destination for short-term stays.

This latest update comes as part of a broader initiative by China to simplify travel for European and Asian nationals, further encouraging tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

Policy Extends Through 2025

The visa-free entry program for these nine countries will remain in effect until December 31, 2025, aligning with China’s previous extension of visa-free travel for 18 European nations. Earlier this year, China extended visa-free travel to five other European countries, bringing the total to 18 countries that can now enjoy simplified entry requirements.

Recent Visa-Free Arrangements for European and Asian Visitors

In recent months, China has introduced visa-free entry for various European and Asian nations, encouraging tourism and strengthening international relations.

From December 1, 2023, to November 30, 2024, citizens with ordinary passports from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia can enter China for up to 15 days without a visa.

Also Read: China Eases Travel for Australians with New Visa-Free Policy and Multi-Entry Visas

Additional Visa-Free Options for Transit and Group Tours

China has also enabled 72 or 144-hour visa-free transit for Norwegian travellers in over 20 Chinese cities starting November 17, 2023.

Additionally, travellers heading to Hainan Province can enjoy a 15 to 21-day visa-free stay if they are part of an organized group tour managed by an authorized travel agency.

These policies simplify access to China, making it a more convenient destination for short visits and tourism.

Boosting Tourism and Business Relations

China’s expanded visa-free policy aims to strengthen its role as a global travel destination while promoting cultural and economic exchanges. According to recent reports, China saw an impressive 55.4% increase in inbound tourists during the first nine months of 2024.

Final Words

By expanding its visa-free program, China aims to attract more international visitors and strengthen its position as a global tourism destination. This latest announcement is expected to further stimulate economic growth and cultural exchange between China and the newly added countries.