China is witnessing a significant boost in tourism and international exchanges following recent changes in its visa-free travel policies. These adjustments aim to facilitate more accessible travel for both business and leisure purposes, reflecting China’s efforts to promote high-quality development and openness to the world. For investors holding a second passport through Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, these new policies enhance the value of their investment by offering greater travel flexibility and access to one of the world’s largest economies.
Expanded Visa-Free Access for European Countries
In a strategic move to enhance tourism and business exchanges, China has extended its visa-free travel scheme to include 11 European countries and Malaysia until the end of 2025. Initially set for one year, this initiative has now been prolonged, allowing citizens from Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland to enter China without a visa for up to 15 days. This extension aims to encourage more visitors from these nations, fostering deeper connections and more robust tourism.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that this policy aims “to facilitate the high-quality development of Chinese and foreign personnel exchanges and high-level opening up to the outside world.” The visa-free entry program, launched in stages in early 2024, signifies China’s commitment to revitalizing its tourism sector and strengthening international ties.
Boost in Tourism Numbers
Data from China’s Immigration Administration highlights the impact of these policies. In the first quarter of this year, 466,000 foreign visas were issued, and nearly 2 million foreign nationals entered China without visas. This surge indicates a growing interest in visiting China, driven by the relaxed visa requirements and the country’s appeal as a travel destination.
DAI BIN, President of the China Tourism Academy, noted significant growth in tourists from countries along the Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, the number of younger visitors who are attracted to both China’s traditional culture and contemporary lifestyle has increased.
Addressing Travel Challenges
Despite the positive trend, industry experts point out challenges that need addressing to sustain this growth. Issues such as language barriers, tourist interpretation systems, and internet access remain areas for improvement. Enhancing these aspects will further improve the travel experience for foreign visitors and support the continuous rise in tourism.
Encouraging Inbound Tourism
China’s efforts to boost tourism are not limited to visa policies. The government has been promoting cultural and historical attractions in partnership with online travel agencies. In 2023, there was a 663% increase in overall bookings from Europe to China compared to 2022, demonstrating a significant rebound in interest. Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen remain popular destinations, with emerging interest in places like Sanya and Chengdu.
Value for Citizenship by Investment Holders
For high-net-worth individuals considering or holding a second passport through Citizenship by Investment programs, China’s new visa policies significantly enhance the value of their investment. Passports from countries such as Austria, Hungary, Italy, and Portugal now offer more than just the benefits of European Union citizenship. These passports also grant visa-free access to China, facilitating seamless business, tourism, and personal travel.
This increased travel flexibility is particularly valuable for investors looking to explore business opportunities in China, attend trade fairs, or engage in high-level meetings without the hassle of obtaining a visa. The ability to travel visa-free to China can be a decisive factor for those seeking to maximize the global mobility that comes with a second passport.
Notable Visa-Free Travel Agreements With China by Region
In addition to the European countries now enjoying visa-free access to China, several other nations have established notable agreements with China, further enhancing the value of their passports:
Americas
- Antigua and Barbuda: Comprehensive coverage including diplomatic, official, and ordinary passports (since May 2024)
- Argentina: Diplomatic and service passports (since 1993)
- Brazil: Diplomatic and service passports (since 2004)
Europe
- Albania: Diplomatic, service, and ordinary passports (recently expanded in 2023)
- Austria: Diplomatic passports (since 2017)
- Belgium: Diplomatic passports (since 2017)
Asia
- India: Diplomatic and official passports (since 2007)
- Japan: Diplomatic and official passports (since 2017)
- South Korea: Diplomatic passports (since 2013)
Africa
- Algeria: Diplomatic and service passports (since 2019)
- Botswana: Diplomatic and service passports (since 2018)
- Ethiopia: Diplomatic, service, and passports for public affairs (since 2015)
Enhancing Global Mobility for CBI Investors
China’s updated visa policies and extended visa-free schemes are pivotal in reviving its tourism sector and enhancing international exchanges. For Citizenship by Investment holders, these policies add significant value to their passports by offering greater travel convenience and access to one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
By addressing existing travel challenges and promoting its rich cultural heritage, China is poised to attract more visitors, fostering global connections and economic growth. These initiatives reflect China’s strategic efforts to position itself as a top destination for both tourism and business in the post-pandemic era, and they offer compelling benefits for CBI investors seeking enhanced global mobility and opportunities.
