China to Extend Visa-Free Policy to Nine More Countries

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China announced on November 22 that, to further facilitate the personnel exchanges between China and foreign countries, China has decided to extend its visa-free policy to more countries. From November 30, 2024, to December 31, 2025, a visa-free policy will be implemented on a trial basis for the holders of ordinary passports from Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Japan, Latvia, Malta, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Romania.

In addition, China has decided to simultaneously optimize its entry policies by including exchange visits as a valid reason for visa-free entry, and extending the visa-free stay period from the current 15 days to 30 days. Starting from November 30, 2024, holders of ordinary passports of 38 countries, including the aforementioned nine countries, can enter and stay in China without visas for up to 30 days for purposes of business, tourism, family visits, exchange visits, and transit. Individuals who do not meet the visa-free requirements still need to obtain visas to enter China before arrival.

As of now, China has established mutual visa exemption agreements with 157 countries and regions, which cover different types of passports. At the same time, foreigners can also come to China for tourism or business through visa-free transit, cruise visa exemption, and visa-free policies for specific areas such as Hainan Island.

(Source: Beijing Daily)