China has extended its visa-free policy for people from 12 countries until the end of 2025. This announcement was made by Chinese President Xi Jinping on May 6, 2024.
The countries included are France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg.
Originally this visa-free policy started in November 2023 for some European countries and Malaysia. It was planned to end in November 2024. The policy has been successful in increasing tourism and boosting the economy so it has been extended.
Tourist numbers in China have grown since the country relaxed COVID-19 restrictions in 2023.
This policy is part of China’s effort to improve its economy by encouraging more international tourists. From mid-March 2024 relaxed visa rules will also apply to visitors from Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg and Switzerland.
China is also testing similar policies with other European and Asian countries although Pakistan is not currently included in these plans.
