Imagine strolling through the tropical rainforests of Xishuangbanna or hopping between tech hubs in Shanghai — all without visa hassles. In the first half of 2025, 13.64 million travelers entered the Chinese mainland visa-free, up 53.9% year-on-year and accounting for 71.2% of all foreign arrivals.
At a press conference hosted by the National Immigration Administration, officials highlighted two key policy updates: a new visa-free scheme for ASEAN tourist groups visiting Xishuangbanna in Yunnan province and the addition of Indonesia to the 240-hour transit visa-free program. These measures are designed to streamline entry processes and enhance economic and cultural exchanges.
From digital nomads seeking immersive travel to young entrepreneurs exploring emerging markets, easier access is reshaping how the world engages with the Chinese mainland. By simplifying payment, accommodation, and transport arrangements, authorities are laying the groundwork for sustainable tourism and cross-border business collaboration.
As global mobility rebounds, these visa-free initiatives underscore a growing trend toward borderless travel and trade. Whether you’re a business traveler, a thought leader on sustainability, or an adventurous explorer, the Chinese mainland’s new policies open doors to fresh experiences and partnerships in 2025.
Reference(s):
China sees 13.64M visa-free foreign entries in the first half of 2025
cgtn.com
