Beijing, China – Beginning in June 2025, visitors from more than 70 countries can enter China without a visa for a period of 30 days. This calculated action demonstrates China's growing openness and desire to welcome the world by focusing on tourists from Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, and Latin America.

China's visa-free entry programme is not just a minor adjustment but a major change in how it approaches and manages its tourism with other countries.

Who can enter China without a Visa?

The following is a list of countries whose citizens can visit China without a visa: 

Note:Visitors are encouraged to often check the official China Immigration webpage for the most recent updates, since the policy is subject to change.

Phase Rolled Out 

—December 2023:Launch with European economic powerhouses (France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain) and a key ASEAN partner (Malaysia), signalling engagement with the EU and strengthening Southeast Asian ties.

—March 2024:Deepened European reach by adding Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg, covering much of Western and Central Europe.

—June 2025:Broadened geographic scope to include five Latin American nations (Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay) and strategically aligned with the Belt and Road Initiative and energy interests by adding Uzbekistan and four Middle Eastern countries (Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain).

—July 2025:Set to reach 75 countries with the addition of Azerbaijan, extending influence to the Caucasus.

Crucially, most of these waivers are trial-based (1-2 years), allowing China flexibility to assess the impact and use extensions as a diplomatic tool.

Regional Exemption 

Hainan Province:A key example, Hainan offers a 30-day visa-free policy for 59 countries. This is crucial for its transformation into a major international free-trade port and luxury tourism hub.

Cruise Ship Tourism:Since May 2024, foreign tour groups of two or more arriving by cruise ship can enter visa-free for up to 15 days, allowing travel within coastal provinces and even to Beijing, boosting the high-value cruise industry.

Niche Tour Groups: Other targeted exemptions exist for ASEAN tour groups visiting specific areas, like Guilin, and for groups from Hong Kong and Macau travelling to the Pearl River Delta.

What should a visitor know before visiting China Visa-Free?

Note: Work/education needs a separate visa.

Beijing's Open Door Policy: Fueling Growth and Strengthening Ties

China's new, sweeping visa exemptions for over 70 countries are a major push to revitalise its economy and boost its global image. By simplifying entry, Beijing aims to significantly increase tourism and foreign investment.