China is set to significantly boost its tourism sector by extending visa-free entry to six additional European nations. This policy, which began in March of this year and extends to November, includes Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg, and allows ordinary passport holders from these countries to enter China without a visa for up to 15 days for business, tourism, visiting family, or transit purposes. This follows an earlier extension that included France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia, effective from December 2023 to November 2024. This strategic move by China’s Foreign Affairs Ministry is expected to attract a surge of European visitors, enriching cultural exchanges and strengthening economic ties.
The visa exemption aims to position China as a key global travel destination in 2024 and beyond. Previously, citizens from the newly included European countries required a visa for stays longer than 15 days or for activities like studying, working, or settling. In addition, China’s National Immigration Administration introduced a new policy that came into effect last month, that allows foreign tourist groups traveling by cruise to enter visa-free at any coastal cruise port. Tourists can explore designated areas for up to 15 days, as long as they remain with their cruise ship. This initiative is expected to enhance the appeal of China’s coastal cities, further boosting the nation’s tourism industry.
