In a bid to boost tourism, China has announced visa-free entry to citizens from a total of nine countries. This new policy will come into effect from November 8. It states that citizens of these countries will be allowed entry in China for business, tourism, family visits, or transit for up to 15 days without a visa.
The list of countries include:
- South Korea
- Norway
- Finland
- Slovakia
- Denmark
- Iceland
- Andorra
- Monaco
- Liechtenstein
According to reports, China received 8.186 inbound foreign travellers – which is a significant 48.8 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Reports also suggest that around 4.9 million travellers who visited China, entered through the already existing visa-free programme.
Alongwith the expanded visa-free entry, there are also additional measures put in place. This is being done to streamline entry for foreigners. Measures such as reduced wait times for inspections, and the use of overseas bank cards for subway fares, are going to make travel a lot easier when in China.
Also, last month, the foreign ministry announced that it would continue optimising travel policies to make it easier for foreigners to visit and stay in the country. This is another way to ensure hassle-free travel for tourists.