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China is experiencing a rise in foreign tourists after easing its visa rules. People from 74 nations can now visit China without a visa for up to 30 days, a significant move designed to enhance tourism, support China's economy, and strengthen its global influence. In 2024, over 20 million international travelers entered China without a visa. This figure is more than double that of the previous year and represents nearly one-third of all international arrivals, according to the National Immigration Administration. The government began welcoming tourists again in 2023 after removing COVID-19 measures, but the number of visitors was still low at 13.8 million, which is less than half of the 31.9 million recorded in 2019. In late 2023, travelers from countries like France, Germany, and Italy gained visa-free access.
By July 16, the total number of visa-free nations will reach 75, although most of these arrangements are temporary for one year. New access has also been granted to places in Latin America, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, but so far, no significant African countries have been added. Tourism experts are getting ready for a large increase in visitors. At the same time, companies such as WildChina are reporting substantial growth. Managing Director Jenny Zhao mentioned that business has risen by 50% compared to the period before the pandemic, with European tourists now making up to 20% of their customers, up from under 5% in 2019, according to various reports.
There is also a short 10-day visa-free transit option for citizens of 10 countries, including the USA, Canada, and the UK, as long as they enter and leave through different nations. However, some nations are not included in this program, which could indicate diplomatic issues. For example, Sweden is the only wealthy European nation not part of the 30-day visa exemption due to the detention of Swedish publisher Gui Minhai. Overall, China's visa policy changes are transforming its tourism scene, with expectations of ongoing increases through 2025.
