BEIJING, China has announced a major expansion of its visa-free entry policy and a comprehensive package of digital border control measures aimed at making international travel faster, easier, and more convenient for foreign visitors.
According to China’s Ministry of Public Security, the new initiatives are part of the government’s broader strategy to further open the country to the world by removing barriers for international tourists, business travelers, and other foreign visitors.
The ministry said authorities are working to further improve visa-free transit and entry regulations, while expanding the use of digital travel documents, including e-passports and other electronic travel authorizations, to reduce paperwork and streamline immigration procedures.
As part of the modernization plan, China will also introduce additional smart border clearance channels, enabling eligible travelers to complete immigration formalities more quickly through automated systems.
The government also plans to move visa applications, residence permits, and other immigration-related services to fully online platforms, making the application process faster and more efficient.
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The announcement follows a series of measures introduced by Beijing in recent months to facilitate international travel and strengthen global connectivity.
Officials said visa policies, residency procedures, and digital immigration systems will continue to be upgraded to provide better services for overseas visitors.
Currently, citizens of 50 countries are eligible for China’s unilateral visa-free entry policy, while travelers from 55 countries can benefit from a 240-hour visa-free transit program through 65 designated ports of entry.
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China has also recorded a significant increase in inbound international travel in recent months. During the summer season, major entry and exit points in Beijing have experienced higher passenger traffic as tourism, business, and educational visits continue to recover.
Official statistics show that China welcomed approximately 23 million foreign visitors during the first six months of 2026, representing a 20.4% increase compared with the same period last year.
Authorities attributed the growth largely to the relaxation of visa requirements and more traveler-friendly entry policies.
According to official data, the largest number of international visitors came from South Korea, Russia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, the United States, Japan, Mongolia, and Australia.
Chinese officials said the latest reforms are intended to strengthen international exchanges and make travel to China more accessible, efficient, and convenient for visitors from around the world.
