China has taken another step to revitalize its economy by expanding the China visa-free entry program to nine additional countries. Starting November 30, citizens of Bulgaria, Romania, Malta, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan can travel to China without a visa for up to 30 days. This decision increases the total number of countries eligible for China visa-free entry to 38. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian confirmed this development, marking a significant shift in China’s post-pandemic travel policy.
Why Japan’s Inclusion Matters
Japan’s inclusion stands out as it signifies a thaw in diplomatic relations between the two nations. Tensions over Taiwan and Japan’s release of treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant had strained ties, but a September agreement on these issues cleared the way for this change. Japan had enjoyed China visa-free entry before the pandemic and had been pushing for its reinstatement. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi welcomed this move, hopeful that it would strengthen bilateral exchanges.
Longer Stays and New Opportunities
The new policy also extends the visa-free stay limit from 15 to 30 days. Additionally, students and participants in academic or cultural exchanges now qualify for visa-free entry, expanding eligibility. This shift emphasizes China’s desire to encourage people-to-people exchanges and strengthen its diplomatic ties.
China’s Post-Pandemic Strategy
China imposed strict travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic and reopened later than most countries. The resumption of visa exemptions for Brunei and Singapore in mid-2023 and the addition of six more countries in December signaled the start of a gradual reopening. This latest expansion continues that trend.
Other countries, such as Thailand, are also using visa policies to attract Chinese tourists, further supporting China’s global economic recovery.
Between July and September 2024, China recorded 8.2 million foreign arrivals, with 4.9 million benefiting from visa exemptions. This policy plays a key role in China’s efforts to boost international connections and accelerate its economic recovery.
