Published on
February 23, 2026
Image generated with Ai
In a groundbreaking move, China has expanded its visa waiver policy, now offering citizens from Norway, the United Kingdom, France, South Korea, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and forty-six additional countries the ability to travel visa-free for up to thirty days. This significant policy shift is designed to enhance international travel, promote tourism, business exchanges, and cultural ties, making it easier for millions of people to visit China for short stays without the bureaucratic hassle of obtaining a visa. By welcoming citizens from these diverse nations, China is strengthening its global relationships while fostering economic and diplomatic growth.
As of February 17, 2026, China has introduced a significant expansion of its visa waiver policy, now allowing holders of regular Canadian and British passports to enter the country without requiring a visa. This move is part of China’s ongoing efforts to simplify travel and strengthen international relations, particularly with countries that have close economic, diplomatic, and cultural ties. The visa waiver policy now benefits travelers from 50 countries, making it easier for citizens of these nations to visit China for various purposes, ranging from tourism to business and academic exchanges.
Key Highlights of the Visa Waiver Policy
Under this new initiative, travelers from Canada and the United Kingdom are allowed to visit China for up to 30 days without the need to apply for a visa. The visa-free entry applies to a wide array of purposes, including tourism, business trips, family visits, transit, and academic or cultural exchange programs. This announcement is expected to increase the flow of international visitors and boost tourism, trade, and educational opportunities between these nations and China.
In 2025, China had already relaxed its visa policies for citizens of 48 countries, allowing them to visit without a visa for up to 30 days. With the inclusion of Canada and the UK, the total number of eligible countries has now risen to 50. The policy change underscores China’s ambition to foster closer international ties while maintaining the necessary border controls to ensure safety and security.
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Who Can Benefit from the Visa Waiver?
Citizens holding valid ordinary passports from the following 50 countries are now eligible for visa-free access to China. This list includes countries from various regions, reflecting the global nature of the policy:
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Brunei
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- Netherlands
- Switzerland
- Ireland
- Hungary
- Austria
- Belgium
- Luxembourg
- New Zealand
- Australia
- Poland
- Portugal
- Greece
- Cyprus
- Slovenia
- Slovakia
- Norway
- Finland
- Denmark
- Iceland
- Andorra
- Monaco
- Liechtenstein
- South Korea
- Bulgaria
- Romania
- Croatia
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Malta
- Estonia
- Latvia
- Japan
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Chile
- Peru
- Uruguay
- Saudi Arabia
- Oman
- Kuwait
- Bahrain
- Russia
- Sweden
This extensive list of countries reflects a diverse array of regions, highlighting China’s growing global influence and its desire to build stronger relations with nations that share economic and diplomatic interests.
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Eligible Travel Purposes
The visa waiver policy is designed to support various types of travel to China. It is applicable to travelers visiting for the following purposes:
- Business: Whether it’s meetings, conferences, or trade-related events, the visa waiver facilitates business activities between China and these countries.
- Tourism: Visitors can enjoy the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of China without the hassle of applying for a visa.
- Family or Friend Visits: Individuals can reunite with loved ones without the need for bureaucratic hurdles.
- Exchange Programs: Students, educators, and researchers can participate in academic and cultural exchange programs with ease.
- Transit: For travelers passing through China on their way to another destination, this policy makes stopovers more convenient.
- Sports Events: Participants and spectators attending international sporting events in China can benefit from the visa waiver.
- Conferences and Exhibitions: Business professionals and exhibitors at trade fairs or conferences can enter China without the need for a visa.
- Study Tours: This includes educational trips like summer and winter camps, which are often part of cultural or academic exchange initiatives.
Duration of Stay
Travelers benefiting from the visa waiver can stay in China for up to 30 days. The 30-day period begins the day after arrival, providing ample time for short visits. If a traveler needs to stay longer than 30 days, they must apply for an extension or obtain a visa through a Chinese embassy or consulate in advance.
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In cases where travelers need to extend their stay beyond the allowed 30 days due to unforeseen circumstances, they must apply for a stay permit from local exit-entry authorities.
Passport and Entry Requirements
To qualify for the visa waiver, travelers must have a valid ordinary passport that remains valid for the entire duration of their stay in China. This policy does not apply to holders of temporary, emergency, or non-ordinary travel documents.
Upon arrival, travelers may be asked to present supporting documents. These could include:
- Invitation letters (for business or family visits)
- Return or onward tickets
- Accommodation bookings
Entry may be denied if the traveler cannot provide sufficient documentation or if the purpose of their visit does not align with the approved categories.
Arrival Procedures
Travelers can arrive in China through various means—by sea, air, or land—via any authorized entry point. This applies whether travelers are coming directly from their home country or a third country. However, travelers using private transportation will need to comply with additional entry and exit regulations.
Multiple Entries
The visa waiver policy allows travelers to enter China multiple times without the need for a visa. There is no restriction on the number of entries, as long as the traveler complies with the declared purpose of each visit.
Minors and Group Travelers
The visa waiver also applies to minors and group travelers. Whether traveling individually or as part of a group tour, travelers can enjoy the benefits of the policy, ensuring that families and groups can make the most of their time in China.
Lost Passport Procedures
In case of a lost passport while in China, travelers will need to verify their identity and entry records with local authorities. If the traveler has not overstayed or violated any regulations, they will be allowed to leave the country. However, any violations will be addressed according to Chinese law before departure is permitted.
China’s new visa waiver policy now allows citizens from Norway, the United Kingdom, France, South Korea, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and 46 other countries to enjoy effortless 30-day travel. This move aims to boost tourism, business, and international relations by simplifying access to China.
Strengthening International Ties
By extending the visa waiver to include Canada and the United Kingdom, China aims to further strengthen its international ties. The policy enhances diplomatic relations and opens up new opportunities for business, tourism, education, and cultural exchange. With the increased number of countries eligible for visa-free entry, the future of travel and cooperation between China and the world looks promising.
In conclusion, this expanded visa waiver policy is a significant step towards enhancing global connectivity and cooperation. It reflects China’s growing role on the international stage and offers travelers an easier, more efficient way to experience all that China has to offer.
