China reports more trips by foreign travellers in first 2 months of 2024 as visa-free policies take effect

On March 10, the international cruise ship Zuiderdam, operated by Holland America Line, brought 2,013 tourists from 47 countries to the port of Dalian in northeast China. It was the first time a large cruise ship has visited northern China since 2019, Shi said.

In recent months, China has granted a series of visa exemptions to foreign travellers to encourage inbound travel as the country faces a tourism slump amid an economic downturn.

In November, China expanded its visa-free transit policy to Norway, bringing the number of countries covered to 54.

Citizens from these countries do not need a visa to enter China as long as they have booked an onward ticket to a third country or region.

Those passing through the cities of Changsha, Guilin and Harbin may stay for up to 72 hours, while those transiting through 20 other cities – including Beijing and Shanghai – may stay for up to 144 hours.

During that time, travellers are allowed to engage in tourist and business activities.

Foreign visitor numbers yet to reach China’s pre-pandemic levels, data shows

In December, China started allowing travellers from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia to enter the country without a visa for 15 days for business, tourism, family visits and transit.

A mutual visa exemption agreement between China and Singapore came into effect on February 9, which was Lunar New Year’s Eve. The agreement allows citizens of the two countries to travel, visit family and go on business trips for up to 30 days.

According to Shi, China will take more steps to make travel easier for foreign visitors, including making the payment process at tourist attractions, performance venues and hotels more convenient.

China will also provide more tourism services and ramp up international advertising to push for more inbound travel, he said.

According to state broadcaster CCTV, China has mutual visa exemption agreements with 22 countries. More than 60 countries and regions give Chinese citizens visa-free access or visas on arrival.

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безвизовый политик иностранный путешественник Holland America Line поездка сила круизный месяц год Далиан