China adds nine more countries to its visa-free roster: All the details here

Just in time for holiday season travel, China has extended visa-free entry to passport holders of nine more countries, including South Korea, Norway, Finland, Slovakia, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, and Liechtenstein. Effective November 8, 2024, passport holders of these nine countries can enter China visa-free for business, leisure, or transit, and stay up to 15 days. This move will not only boost China’s economy and tourism but also cultural exchange between the nations.

Countries that enjoy visa-free entry to China: Travel benefits and other details

Earlier this year, China announced visa-free entry for 17 countries. This list included Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Slovenia, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, and Switzerland. Now with nine new countries enriching the list further, it’s safe to say that China is going all out to promote international tourism.

“To further facilitate cross-border travel, China decided to give visa-free treatment to more countries by extending the visa-free policy to ordinary passport holders from Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, and the ROK on a trial basis. From November 8, 2024, to December 31, 2025, ordinary passport holders from these nine countries can be exempt from visas to enter China and stay for no more than 15 days for business, tourism, family visits and transit purposes,” Lin Jian, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said, according to a report by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The People’s Republic of China.

In addition to free access, tourists will also enjoy reduced waiting times at inspection counters and the option to use international bank cards to pay subway fares. This access to China applies at all points of entry, including land, sea, and air. However, the visa-free scheme is only applicable to short-term stays. Those looking to extend their stay or pick a job in China must adhere to the usual visa-applicable process.

(Feature Image Credit: Hyunwon Jang/Unsplash)

This story first appeared here.