Published on
December 29, 2025
Hungary joins with Denmark, Germany, Thailand, Finland, Saudi Arabia, and over sixty-eight other countries, is set to benefit from China’s new visa-free travel policy, which is expected to significantly boost international tourism and ease travel restrictions for millions of visitors. This new policy, which allows travelers from eligible countries to visit China without the need for a visa for up to ten days, is part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its tourism sector and attract more foreign visitors. As a result, airports like Shanghai Pudong and Beijing Daxing are already experiencing a surge in inbound travelers, signaling a strong rebound in China’s tourism market for 2025.
China’s tourism landscape is set for a revolutionary change as the country rolls out a new visa-free travel policy for nationals of more than sixty-eight countries, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to enhance inbound tourism and cross-border passenger flows. This move follows China’s continued optimization of its entry and exit policies, aimed at increasing international tourism and bolstering economic growth. With major travel hubs like Shanghai Pudong International Airport already seeing a surge in foreign travelers, the outlook for China’s inbound tourism market is brighter than ever.
A Landmark Shift in China’s Visa Policies
Starting in December 2024, China began implementing a 240-hour visa-free transit policy for certain foreign nationals. This new policy, which allows travelers to stay in China for up to ten days without requiring a visa, has already made a significant impact. According to official reports, more than 45,000 eligible travelers have entered China through Beijing Daxing International Airport alone, with foreign nationals from across the globe taking advantage of this policy to explore the country’s cultural riches and economic opportunities.
This visa-free policy is a part of a broader strategy to attract more international tourists by easing travel restrictions, offering greater flexibility, and improving the overall experience for foreign visitors. The policy is expected to remain in place until December 31, 2026, extending travel opportunities for tourists, business professionals, and those in transit.
Countries Benefiting from China’s New Visa-Free Policy
The policy applies to nationals from over 70 countries, primarily in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. Travelers from Southeast Asia, including Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, are expected to see the most significant impact. East Asian countries like Japan and South Korea are also well-represented, alongside numerous Western and Northern European nations, such as France, Germany, and the UK.
The full list of eligible countries includes, but is not limited to:
Southeast Asia:BruneiMalaysiaSingaporeThailandEast Asia:Europe (Western/Northern):FranceGermanyItalyNetherlandsSpainSwitzerlandIrelandNorwayDenmarkFinlandEurope (Eastern/Southern):PolandHungaryGreecePortugalCyprusRomaniaBulgariaOceania:Middle East:UAESaudi ArabiaOmanKuwaitBahrainSouth America:BrazilArgentinaChilePeruUruguay
For many of these nations, the ability to travel to China without a visa will open doors to enhanced business relationships, cultural exchanges, and tourism opportunities.
Surge in Inbound Tourism and Travel Activity
In the days following the introduction of this new policy, China has seen a sharp increase in inbound passenger flows, particularly at major airports like Shanghai Pudong International. Over the past week, passenger arrivals have surged, with daily foreign national arrivals averaging over 19,000—a 16 percent increase from previous periods. This surge in travelers is a clear indicator that China’s new visa policies are resonating with international tourists.
Visitors from countries such as South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore are among the most frequent travelers, making up nearly 40 percent of all inbound arrivals. The number of Malaysian visitors, in particular, has seen a sharp rise, showcasing the success of China’s visa-free policies in attracting regional travelers.
Beijing Daxing Airport Sees Record Growth
Beijing Daxing International Airport, a significant gateway for international travel, has also experienced remarkable growth in passenger numbers. As of December 17, 2025, the airport recorded over 830,000 foreign arrivals, a 54.6 percent increase compared to the same period the previous year. This surge can be attributed to the introduction of the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, which has made it easier for travelers to transit through China without the need for a visa.
This increase in tourist arrivals is a promising development for China’s tourism sector, especially when considering the broader international trend of increased interest in the country. The policy has sparked significant buzz on overseas social media platforms, with many international travelers now planning trips to China due to the new visa flexibility.
Expanding Tourism Across China’s Lesser-Known Destinations
While cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou remain the focal points of Chinese tourism, the new visa policies have encouraged tourists to explore beyond these major urban centers. Data from Chinese travel agency Qunar reveals that tourists are now visiting more off-the-beaten-path destinations across the country.
In 2025, travelers are increasingly flocking to cities like Shijiazhuang in North China, Zhanjiang in South China, and Baotou in Inner Mongolia, indicating a shift in how international tourists perceive China. These regions are benefiting from the broader tourism wave, as foreign visitors seek new and unique experiences beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
What You Need to Know About China’s New Visa-Free Policies
Eligibility: Nationals from over 70 countries are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy.Duration: Travelers can stay in China for up to 240 hours (ten days) without a visa.Policy Extension: The visa-free policies will remain in effect until December 31, 2026.Increased Accessibility: The new policies make travel to China more accessible for international tourists and business professionals.Regional Impact: Countries across Southeast Asia, East Asia, Europe, Oceania, and South America will benefit from this new travel flexibility.
With China’s visa-free travel policy now in full swing, the country is poised to see a continued rise in tourism and cross-border passenger flows. This shift will not only drive economic growth but also help reshape China’s image as an accessible and welcoming destination for travelers from around the world.
As China introduces these new visa-free travel policies, it marks a significant turning point in the country’s tourism sector. By making it easier for foreign nationals to visit and transit through China, the country is fostering a more open, globally connected tourism environment. With an increase in inbound travelers and growing interest from a diverse array of countries, China is on track to see a record-breaking year for international tourism in 2025.
Hungary joins with Denmark, Germany, Thailand, Finland, Saudi Arabia, and over sixty-eight other countries, is benefiting from China’s new visa-free travel policy, which is set to boost international tourism by simplifying entry for millions of travelers. This policy aims to enhance China’s tourism sector and increase cross-border passenger flows, making it easier for visitors to explore the country.
The new policies are a clear signal that China is ready to embrace the world and position itself as a premier destination for travelers, tourists, and business professionals alike. With an expanding list of visa-free countries and a growing appetite for international tourism, China’s travel market is set for continued success.
