China will extend its visa-free policy to nine additional countries, effective November 30, 2024, in a move designed to enhance international exchange and tourism.
The new measure, which was announced on November 22, will apply to ordinary passport holders from Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan on a trial basis, lasting until December 31, 2025.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian confirmed in a press briefing that the decision will allow travelers from these nine countries to enter China without needing a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The visa-free entry will apply to a variety of purposes, including business, tourism, family visits, exchanges, and transit.
This expansion brings the total number of countries covered by China’s visa-free policy to 38, including the newly added nations.
China had earlier unveiled a similar initiative on November 8, offering visa-free entry to citizens from Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, and South Korea. Travelers from these countries can stay in China for up to 15 days, also for purposes including business, tourism, family visits, and transit.
The expansion aligns with China’s ongoing commitment to promoting tourism and strengthening international engagement. While travelers from the newly included countries can now explore China without a visa, those from nations not yet part of the visa-free arrangement, such as the Philippines, are still encouraged to visit.
“We warmly welcome people from the Philippines to visit China and enjoy China’s beauty!” Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian said in a social media post, extending an invitation to Filipino travelers to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.