Overview

• Visa-free entries topped 20 million in 2024, representing almost one-third of foreign arrivals and doubling the previous year
• Major online travel agency Trip.com recorded a year-on-year doubling of flight, hotel and tour bookings in the first quarter of 2025, with three-quarters of customers from visa-exempt countries
• Approximately two-thirds of the new visa waiver agreements are set to expire after one year as part of a cautious, trial-based rollout
• Citizens of 10 countries not covered by the exemption can use a transit policy to stay visa-free for up to 10 days at 60 Chinese ports
• Domestic tour guides and operators report overwhelming demand, with WildChina noting a 50 percent increase in business compared to pre-pandemic levels