Beijing (China): British and Canadian passport holders will be able to enter China without a visa starting Tuesday, as Beijing expands its visa-free programme to 79 countries in a move aimed at boosting tourism and business exchanges.
Under the revised policy, eligible visitors can stay in China for up to 30 days for purposes including business, tourism, exchange programmes, and visiting family or friends.
China has significantly broadened the scope of the scheme over the past two years. Most European nations are now covered, along with selected countries in Latin America, Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Citizens of certain other countries, including the United States and Indonesia, are permitted to enter China for up to 10 days under transit arrangements, provided they hold onward tickets to a third country.
The easing of entry requirements has been welcomed by business leaders and travellers, many of whom have described China’s traditional visa application process as time-consuming and complex.
The inclusion of the United Kingdom and Canada follows recent visits to China by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Both leaders, relatively new in office, have signalled efforts to stabilise and improve relations with Beijing after several years of strained ties.
For most participating countries, the visa-free arrangement is currently set to run until the end of this year, though similar schemes have been extended previously.
