China extends visa-free stay for tourists to boost tourism
China has introduced a significant change to its visa-free transit policy, allowing tourists to stay in the country for up to ten days.
This new policy marks an extension from the previous maximum of six days, aiming to attract more visitors as China seeks to revive its tourism industry and strengthen its economy.
The revised policy applies to travellers from 54 countries, including the United States, who are transiting through China to a third destination.
This change expands the scope of visa-free travel to 60 approved ports and permits visitors to explore up to 24 provinces, a shift from the prior restriction to specific entry regions.
The Chinese government said, “It invites more foreign friends to come to China and experience the beauty of the country in this new era firsthand.”
Travellers eligible for the visa-free transit programme must book two flights: one to an approved Chinese port and another to a third country within 10 days. Upon arrival, tourists must provide proof of onward travel, a valid passport, and complete an application form.
Scott Keyes, founder of the travel app Going, commented on the programme’s potential impact, stating, “All countries want to kind of control the flow of who’s coming in and out of the country. They also just want more visitors, and if you are a potential tourist, even if you’re just transiting, that’s an opportunity to wow you as a tourist.”
Since reopening its borders in 2023, China has faced challenges in regaining its status as a top tourist destination.
High travel costs and geopolitical tensions with the United States have hindered progress, despite over 14 million international visitors entering the country in the first half of 2024.
Experts like Keyes said that demand for flights to Asia remains lower compared to destinations like Western Europe and the Caribbean.
Meanwhile, a U.S. State Department advisory urges travellers to “exercise increased caution” in China due to potential risks of arbitrary detention.
Read also: China responds to US chip sanctions with export bans on key high-tech materials
With this new visa-free policy, China is taking steps to rebuild its global tourism appeal and showcase its cultural and economic offerings.
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