China's Visa-Free Travel Policy Expands for 38 Countries

China announced on Nov. 29, 2024, the extension of its visa-exemption policy to nine more countries, including Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, and Japan, starting from the end of this month to the end of 2025.

"Starting from Nov 30, 2024, ordinary passports holders from 38 visa-free countries, including the above nine countries, can enter China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, exchange visits and transit for no more than 30 days," Lin Jian said, a spokeman of Chinese Foreign Ministry.

This is aimed at facilitating more cross-border exchanges.

Other countries listed in the trial measures are Malta, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Estonia and Latvia.

In addition, China has decided to further optimize its visa-free policy, including exchanges and visit purposes into the scope of visa-free entry, and extend the period of visa-free stays allowed from the current 15 days to 30 days, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a daily news conference.

So far, nationals from the eligible 38 countries can now enjoy an extended stay, with the visa-free period increased from 15 days to a generous 30 days. This policy aims to foster greater people-to-people exchanges and enhance mutual understanding between China and these countries. Whether you're a business traveler looking for new opportunities or a tourist seeking unforgettable experiences, China welcomes you with open arms.

Here's the full list of the 38 countries that are now eligible for visa-free entry into China include:

Brunei, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Holland, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Japan .

As a citizen of one of the 38 eligible countries, you now have the unique opportunity to experience China's wonders without the hassle of obtaining a visa. However, please keep in mind that entry into China shall be denied by border inspection authorities in accordance with law to foreign nationals who travel for purposes that do not meet the visa waiver requirements or who are not allowed to enter China in accordance with laws and regulations. It is recommended to take documents such as invitation letters, air tickets and reservations of accommodation as a proof corresponding to the purposes of entry into China. Visa waiver does not apply to those who come to China for work, study, journalistic or alike purposes.