China’s new visa policy overhaul fuels surge in global travel

The travel trend to China has gained major momentum, largely driven by the country’s expanding visa-free policy. From crowded streets in Shanghai to tourists flocking to Chongqing, the surge in foreign visitors has made “China travel” a global phenomenon. As per Qunar, a major Chinese online travel agency, the number of foreign travellers booking domestic flights has nearly tripled compared to 2023, with top travellers from the US, Russia, Canada, South Korea, and Australia.

The most notable change is the extension of visa-free stays to five inland provinces—Shanxi, Anhui, Jiangxi, Guizhou, and Hainan—giving tourists more regions to explore. Other provinces like Fujian, Hubei, and Shaanxi also see extended stay areas, allowing tourists to access more parts of the country.

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The relaxation of China’s visa-free transit policy on December 17 is expected to further boost international tourism. The new policy enables a stay of up to 240 hours (10 days) for eligible travelers, a significant increase from the previous 72 and 144-hour options.

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This change is anticipated to encourage deeper exploration of China, particularly its lesser-known cities that are rich in cultural heritage. These small and medium-sized cities are predicted to become more popular among travelers seeking to experience authentic Chinese culture away from the crowded tourist hubs.

The updated visa policy expands the list of eligible foreign travelers who can enter China visa-free while transiting to a third country. Now, 54 countries are covered under the visa-free scheme, which includes an extension of stay durations and new transit ports. The policy also designates 21 additional ports for visa-free entry and exit and expands areas for permitted stays.

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The impact of this policy change has been immediate. Search interest for Chinese travel destinations surged dramatically across global platforms. Within just 30 minutes of the announcement, interest increased by 85% in Europe, 163% in the Americas, and 116% in the Asia-Pacific region, according to Trip.com Group. France, Canada, and Russia saw the largest spikes in search activity, reflecting growing international interest in visiting China.

This visa relaxation is poised to make 2025 an exciting year for foreign tourists looking to explore China more deeply, from its vibrant cities to its cultural gems tucked away in smaller towns. As China continues to welcome more visitors, it reinforces its position as a must-visit global travel destination.

The peak travel period is expected to occur on the evening of December 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025, with an estimated 2.05 million travelers entering and exiting daily. This represents an 18.8% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the administration.