China Expands Visa-Free Access to 74 Countries to Boost Tourism

China has launched a major transformation in its international tourism strategy by expanding visa-free access to a record 74 countries. This bold initiative is not just about relaxing entry rules it’s a targeted effort to reignite international tourism, enhance economic recovery, and project China’s growing soft power. For global travelers, especially those from the Middle East and UAE, the change means a new wave of opportunity and ease when visiting one of the world’s oldest civilizations.

For decades, obtaining a Chinese tourist visa meant tedious embassy visits, paperwork, fees, and long waiting times. Now, that cumbersome process is being lifted for a large portion of the world, offering a 30-day visa-free stay in China for eligible countries. As a result, tourism companies are witnessing an unprecedented spike in interest, bookings are surging, and travelers are embracing China as a convenient and compelling destination.

What Does the Visa-Free Policy Mean for Global Travelers?

The visa-free policy permits passport holders from 74 countries to travel to China for up to 30 days without requiring a visa. This reform has been designed with convenience in mind, enabling smoother entry, faster travel decisions, and greater international connectivity.

According to the National Immigration Administration, over 20 million international travelers entered China under visa-free rules in 2024 alone. This figure reflects an increase of more than double compared to the previous year. The surge is particularly significant because only 13.8 million tourists visited China in 2023 after the country began lifting its strict pandemic-era travel restrictions.

The list of eligible countries includes most of Europe, select Middle Eastern nations, five Latin American countries, and Uzbekistan. This expansion began in December 2023 with the inclusion of nations like France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia. Since then, China has gradually included more countries under the program. By July 16, 2025, Azerbaijan will also be added, bringing the total number of eligible countries to 75.

Why China’s New Visa-Free Policy Is a Travel Game-Changer

Tourism experts agree that the policy is already proving effective in revitalizing China’s global image. The ease of access removes one of the biggest barriers for potential visitors. For example, a Norwegian traveler named Øystein Sporsheim shared how this policy has reduced his family’s stress. Previously, he had to make multiple trips to the Chinese embassy in Oslo to secure tourist visas for his family, which was both time-consuming and costly. Now, they can explore China with a simple passport entry—no paperwork, no lines, no waiting.

The new policy has also catalyzed massive changes within China’s domestic tourism industry. Gao Jun, an experienced English-speaking tour guide with over two decades in the field, reported being overwhelmed with the influx of international tourists. To manage the growing demand, he started training programs for aspiring English-speaking guides, noting that he could no longer handle the volume of bookings alone.

Online travel platforms are experiencing an explosive rise in activity. Trip.com Group, a Shanghai-based travel company, announced that air, hotel, and tour bookings to China more than doubled in the first three months of 2025. The data further showed that 75% of these travelers hailed from visa-free countries. This illustrates the direct impact of the relaxed policy on international travel behavior and spending.

Strategic Benefits for China: Tourism, Economy, and Global Image

China’s move to grant visa-free entry is not merely a tourism strategy it serves broader economic and diplomatic goals. The tourism sector is a key driver of the Chinese economy, especially as the country aims to recover from the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. By simplifying entry for foreign travelers, China hopes to encourage higher tourist spending, job creation, and cross-cultural engagement.

Jenny Zhao, managing director of the luxury travel agency WildChina, confirmed a dramatic increase in business—up 50% compared to pre-pandemic years. According to her, the new visa-free policy has particularly boosted interest from the European market. While American travelers still comprise the largest share of their clients at 30%, European travelers now account for 15–20%, a major jump from under 5% in 2019.

China also appears to be using tourism policy as a form of soft power, showcasing itself as a modern, welcoming nation with a rich history and vibrant culture. As more international tourists walk the Great Wall, explore ancient palaces, and indulge in Chinese cuisine, the nation is also reshaping its global narrative.

Which Countries Can Now Visit China Without a Visa?

As of July 2025, citizens of 74 countries can enjoy visa-free access to China for up to 30 days. This list includes almost all EU nations, along with the UK, Switzerland, Norway, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several countries in the Middle East and Latin America. China has emphasized that around two-thirds of these exemptions are on a one-year trial basis, suggesting they could become permanent if successful.

Despite this sweeping openness, major African countries have been left out of the list. This has sparked discussions about regional imbalances in China’s tourism diplomacy. Given the strong trade and diplomatic ties between China and many African nations, their exclusion is notable and may require future policy revisions.

For those from countries not included in the visa-free list, China has expanded its visa-free transit program. This allows travelers from over 50 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, to stay in select Chinese cities for up to 144 hours (six days) without a visa, provided they are en route to a third country.

Implications for the Middle East and the UAE

The new visa-free regime opens the door for travelers across the Middle East, especially from the UAE, to explore China with fewer hurdles. For Emiratis and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, this policy aligns with a growing appetite for luxury, culture, and adventure travel.

China’s initiative is expected to lead to more direct flights between Gulf cities and Chinese destinations. Travel agencies in the UAE are also likely to design China-specific packages that combine iconic tourist attractions with luxury hospitality, culinary experiences, and wellness retreats.

Given the Middle East’s rising travel culture and its focus on global connectivity, China’s updated visa rules present an ideal opportunity for UAE-based travelers to experience cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Hangzhou without the need for visa processing or embassy appointments.

China’s Border Reopening: A Timeline of Progress

The journey toward relaxed travel rules began in early 2023, when China reopened its borders after three years of COVID-19 restrictions. Although only 13.8 million foreign tourists visited that year, 2024 brought a dramatic recovery. Visa-free entries surged to over 20 million, with total cross-border travel reaching nearly 65 million, up over 80% from the previous year.

With the introduction of visa-free travel and expanded transit visas, China is positioning itself not just as a recovering travel destination, but as one of the most accessible global tourism markets. This momentum is expected to continue throughout 2025 and into the coming years, especially with new countries being added to the visa-free list regularly.

Challenges and Considerations Moving Forward

Although the visa-free policy is widely praised, it comes with caveats. Most of the newly added visa exemptions are on a one-year trial basis, meaning there is no guarantee of permanence. The success of these trials will depend on how well tourism infrastructure handles the influx, how visitors behave, and whether the political climate remains favorable.

Moreover, the lack of African representation on the visa-free list raises questions about China’s approach to equitable global tourism. For a country that champions South-South cooperation and invests heavily in African infrastructure, this oversight could affect diplomatic perceptions.

There is also a concern about managing overtourism in iconic destinations such as the Great Wall or the Forbidden City. Tourism authorities will need to balance accessibility with preservation and crowd control to ensure a sustainable travel experience for future visitors.

Travel Agencies Prepare for a Booming Season

China’s tourism providers are ramping up efforts to meet growing demand. From training more English-speaking tour guides to expanding luxury offerings, businesses are adapting rapidly. Travel companies are also working with hotels, airlines, and local governments to streamline the experience for foreign guests.

Many operators are preparing special cultural tours, culinary experiences, and even adventure trips along China’s ancient Silk Road or scenic mountain ranges. With international flight connectivity improving and digital travel platforms offering multilingual support, visiting China is easier and more attractive than ever.

A New Era for Chinese Tourism

China’s decision to open its doors through visa-free travel to 74 countries marks a turning point in international tourism. This policy is not just about convenience it’s about positioning China as a globally connected, culturally rich, and economically vital destination.

For travelers in the UAE and the broader Middle East, this is a timely opportunity to explore China without the bureaucracy. Whether for a cultural retreat, family holiday, or business visit, China’s simplified visa policy is set to fuel a new era of travel, diplomacy, and global engagement.