China Expands Visa-Free List to Boost Tourism with Addition of Nine New Countries

China has expanded its visa-free entry list, adding nine more countries. The new additions include South Korea, Norway, Finland, Slovakia, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, and Liechtenstein, as reported by the South China Morning Post.

Starting November 8, citizens from these nations will be able to travel to China without the need for a visa for various purposes, such as business, tourism, family reunions, or transit.

This new visa exemption policy is set to remain in place until the end of next year, bringing the total number of countries eligible for visa-free travel to 25. Since the easing of travel restrictions following the COVID-19 pandemic, China has been actively working to rejuvenate its economy and foster better relations with the United States, Europe, and other Asian nations.

Previously, travelers from 16 countries, including France and Germany, had been permitted to enter China visa-free for up to 15 days for similar reasons. This latest move underscores China’s commitment to revitalize its tourism sector and promote cultural exchanges on a global scale.