In a significant move to boost inbound tourism and strengthen international ties, China has expanded its visa-free policy to include six European countries. Starting from March 14 until November 30, 2024, citizens of Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg can visit China for business, tourism, family visits, or transit without the need for a visa for up to 15 days.
This announcement follows last year’s visa exemptions for France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia, signaling China’s ongoing commitment to making travel to its shores more accessible. The Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, unveiled the new policy on March 7, highlighting the expected positive impact on China’s hospitality and related industries.
Experts anticipate a significant surge in tourism-related activities, including accommodation, dining, shopping, and entertainment, as more travelers take advantage of the streamlined entry process. The ease of travel is also likely to foster stronger business relationships and cultural exchanges between China and the newly included nations.
Wang Yi expressed optimism that additional countries will follow suit, offering reciprocal travel benefits to Chinese citizens. This would contribute to building a more efficient and interconnected international tourism system, benefiting travelers and economies alike.
Following the announcement, Trip.com, one of China’s leading travel booking platforms, reported a noticeable increase in flight searches to and from the eligible European countries. This surge reflects the eagerness of travelers to explore China’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities without the constraints of visa applications.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
