China announced on Friday that it will extend visa-free entry to citizens from nine additional countries, including South Korea, Norway, and Finland. This policy, aimed at enhancing tourism and business opportunities, will take effect from November 8, 2024 and will last until December 31, 2025.
Nationals from these countries—South Korea, Norway, Finland, Slovakia, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, and Liechtenstein—will be able to enter China for up to 15 days without a visa. Visa-free entry will apply for purposes such as business, tourism, family visits, or transit, according to their ministry of foreign affairs.
The expansion is part of China’s broader strategy to boost economic and cultural exchanges. In recent months, the country has also provided similar arrangements for citizens from various European and Asian nations.
Starting December 1, 2023, until November 30, 2024, ordinary passport holders from countries such as France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia enjoyed 15 days of visa-free entry for business and tourism, as well as for visiting relatives or transiting.
Indonesia has proposed visa-free access for Taiwanese citizens to attract more tourists. Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno shared the update amid highlighting investment opportunities and the country’s tourism goals. Efforts include expanding visa-free privileges and special air links with Taiwan and other key markets. The move aims to improve Indonesia’s global tourism ranking.
Additionally, from November 17, 2023, Norwegian citizens have access to 72 or 144-hour visa-free transit on arrival in over 20 Chinese cities. Furthermore, visitors to Hainan Province may enter visa-free for up to 15 or 21 days if they are part of a group tour organised by an approved travel service.China also provides visa-free access under special circumstances. APEC Business Travel Card holders and foreigners with a valid Foreigner’s Permanent Residence Card or Residence Permit for Foreigners in the People’s Republic of China can also enter the country without a visa.
