China to Welcome Canadian and British Travelers Visa-Free from 2026
In a significant move to boost international connectivity, China has announced an expansion of its visa waiver program to include holders of regular passports from Canada and the United Kingdom. Starting February 17, 2026, qualified visitors from these two nations will be permitted to enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days.
Policy Expansion Builds on Previous Initiatives
This latest development follows China's earlier easing of visa restrictions in 2025, which initially granted visa-free access to citizens of 48 countries. The primary objective of these policy adjustments is to streamline travel for purposes such as business engagements, tourism, family visits, cultural exchanges, and transit while maintaining robust border security protocols.
With the inclusion of Canada and the United Kingdom, the total number of countries eligible for visa-free travel to China now reaches 50. This expansion reflects China's ongoing efforts to foster global economic and cultural ties through simplified entry procedures.
Comprehensive List of Eligible Countries
Nationals holding valid ordinary passports from the following 50 countries are eligible for visa-free entry:
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Brunei
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- Netherlands
- Switzerland
- Ireland
- Hungary
- Austria
- Belgium
- Luxembourg
- New Zealand
- Australia
- Poland
- Portugal
- Greece
- Cyprus
- Slovenia
- Slovakia
- Norway
- Finland
- Denmark
- Iceland
- Andorra
- Monaco
- Liechtenstein
- Republic of Korea
- Bulgaria
- Romania
- Croatia
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Malta
- Estonia
- Latvia
- Japan
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Chile
- Peru
- Uruguay
- Saudi Arabia
- Oman
- Kuwait
- Bahrain
- Russia
- Sweden
Eligible travelers may stay in China for a maximum of 30 days without a visa, provided their travel purpose aligns with approved categories.
Permitted Travel Purposes Under the Waiver
The visa waiver applies to a diverse range of travel activities, including:
- Business meetings and negotiations
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Visiting family members or friends
- Participation in exchange programs
- Transit through Chinese territory
- Sports competitions and events
- Conferences, seminars, and exhibitions
- Study tours, including summer and winter camps
Duration and Extension Guidelines
The 30-day stay period is calculated from the day following entry and encompasses 30 consecutive calendar days. Travelers intending to remain in China beyond this timeframe must secure the appropriate visa in advance through Chinese diplomatic missions.
In cases where unexpected circumstances necessitate an extension after entry, individuals must apply for a stay permit with local exit-entry administration authorities. Overstaying without authorization may result in penalties under Chinese law.
Passport and Documentation Requirements
Travelers must possess an ordinary passport valid for at least the duration of their intended stay. Holders of temporary, emergency, or alternative travel documents are not eligible for visa-free entry.
Chinese border inspection authorities will conduct thorough checks upon arrival to verify the purpose of travel. While a visa is not required, carrying supporting documentation is strongly advised. This may include:
- Invitation letters from hosts or organizations
- Confirmed return or onward flight tickets
- Accommodation reservations or proof of lodging
Entry may be denied if the declared purpose does not meet waiver conditions or if travelers violate Chinese laws and regulations.
Travel Routes and Entry Points
The visa waiver applies to travelers arriving via any sea, road, or airport open to foreign nationals, unless specific legal or bilateral restrictions apply. This policy is valid whether travelers depart directly from their home country or from a third country.
Those entering China by private transport must adhere to additional entry-exit procedures for vehicles as stipulated by Chinese regulations.
Multiple Entry Provisions and Compliance
Eligible nationals may enter China multiple times without a visa, with no current restrictions on the number of entries. However, travelers must refrain from engaging in activities inconsistent with their declared purpose of entry to avoid legal complications.
Special Considerations for Minors and Groups
Visa waiver rules for minors are identical to those for adults, requiring valid ordinary passports. The policy applies uniformly to individual travelers and participants in organized tour groups.
Procedures for Lost Passports
If a visa-free traveler loses their passport after entry, Chinese border authorities will verify identity, entry records, and documentation issued by the relevant embassy or consulate in China. Exit may be permitted provided the traveler has not overstayed or committed violations.
In instances of overstaying or other infractions, authorities will address the case according to Chinese law before allowing departure.
