China Extends Visa-Free Policy to New Countries
- rsatax
- 23 hours ago
- 2 min read
China grants visa-free entry to several European countries that have reciprocal agreements, allowing short-term stays for purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits. This policy, traditionally limited to select regions, is now being extended to new parts of the world.
China implements a visa-free policy for ordinary passport holders from five Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries—Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay—from June 1, 2025, until May 31, 2026, to strengthen people-to-people exchanges.
Citizens from these five countries can enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, for purposes such as business, tourism, family visits, cultural exchanges, or transit.
These five nations represent major economies within the LAC region, and the policy reflects China's growing emphasis on deepening cooperation with the area. It is expected to enhance cultural interaction and significantly support economic and trade development. Small and medium-sized enterprises in Latin America and the Caribbean are likely to benefit in particular, as the new policy facilitates easier access to the Chinese market.
In 2024, trade volume between China and LAC countries surpassed USD500 billion for the first time, marking a dramatic increase compared to the early 2000s.
The decision was announced during the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum in Beijing. China also indicated its intention to eventually extend the visa-free policy to more countries in the region.
The policy is part of a broader initiative to boost both commercial and cultural exchanges. Although Latin American and Caribbean countries are not currently primary sources of inbound tourism to China, the measure underscores China’s commitment to openness and inclusive international engagement.
China remains focused on facilitating cross-border travel through such initiatives, aiming to attract more international visitors and strengthen global ties.