On November 30, 2024, China expanded its visa-free entry policy to include citizens of nine additional countries, including Japan, Bulgaria, and Romania. This initiative, which began as a trial in 2023, now encompasses 38 countries, primarily in Europe.
Eligible travelers holding ordinary passports can visit China for up to 30 days for purposes such as business, tourism, family visits, and cultural exchanges.
The policy extension aims to enhance international travel and stimulate economic activity, particularly in tourism and business. In the third quarter of 2024, China recorded 8.2 million inbound trips, marking a 48.8% year-on-year increase. Visa-free entries surged by 78.6% during the same period.
Notably, large corporations like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises, have leveraged this policy to facilitate business travel and strengthen trade ties. The move is seen as a key driver of global trade and investment, fostering confidence in the global economy amidst a slow recovery and rising protectionism.
China’s unilateral visa-free policy is part of broader efforts to promote cultural exchange, enhance global economic integration, and support initiatives like the China International Import Expo.
