Beijing, July 8, 2025 — In a historic shift that’s set to reshape global tourism, China has officially opened its borders visa-free to citizens from over 70 countries, allowing travelers to explore the country without the usual red tape — no visa, no appointment, just pack and go.
From the Great Wall’s ancient majesty to the modern marvels of Shanghai, China is making it easier than ever for tourists to walk through its history, culture, and natural beauty.
The visa-free policy now covers 74 countries, with Azerbaijan becoming the 75th on July 16. Travelers from eligible nations can now enter and stay up to 30 days in China without applying for a visa. That means easier family vacations, business trips, and backpacking adventures — all with far less paperwork.
Included in the list are:
Most of Europe
Many parts of Latin America
Key nations from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Oceania
However, the U.S., UK, and Canada didn’t make the cut — though travelers from these countries can still use China’s 10-day transit visa, available at designated ports, as long as they’re headed to a third destination.
📈 Why China Is Doing This Now
Tourism numbers took a major hit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pre-2020, China welcomed nearly 32 million international visitors annually. But by 2023, that number had dropped to just over 13 million. This visa-free move is a bold bid to reignite its global tourism engine and reclaim its place on top travel bucket lists.
“The visa-free policies are 100% beneficial to us,”
says Jenny Zhao, managing director of travel agency WildChina, who has already seen a 50% jump in bookings compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Another local tour leader, Gao Jun, says demand has risen so quickly that he’s now training new English-speaking guides to meet the surge.
Travel platform Trip.com reported that China-bound bookings in early 2025 doubled year-over-year.
More than 75% of visitors this year are coming from visa-free countries.
Tour companies are booming again, from Beijing street tours to Yangtze River cruises.
This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about rebuilding trust, showcasing a new, open China, and making a strong geopolitical statement: we’re open, we’re ready, and we want you here.
✋ But Not Everyone Is Invited
While the move seems inclusive, it’s also very selective. Africa remains largely off the list, and Western nations like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada are still required to go through visa procedures.
Still, China offers an option: a 10-day transit visa for travelers passing through China on their way to another destination — but it only works through 60 specific ports and requires a valid third-country ticket.
Stay up to 30 days with no visa if you’re from one of the 75 eligible countries.
Transit visa (10 days) available for other travelers, but only at approved entry points.
The visa-free policy is currently part of a one-year trial program, which could be extended or made permanent depending on its success.
China’s visa-free expansion isn’t just a tourism policy — it’s a signal to the world. As global travel rebounds, China is choosing openness, accessibility, and convenience to welcome millions back to its ancient cities, futuristic skylines, and unmatched landscapes.
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the Forbidden City at sunrise, walking across the Great Wall, or exploring rural Chinese villages, now might be your moment — no visa required.
