China Announces Visa-Free Entry for Japan and 8 Other Countries!

On November 22, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian announced during a routine press conference that the country will trial visa-free policies for citizens of nine additional countries, including Japan.

Responding to a reporter’s question about the potential expansion of China’s visa-free policy, which currently covers 29 countries, Lin confirmed plans to broaden its scope. From November 30, 2024, to December 31, 2025, citizens holding ordinary passports from Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan will be eligible for visa-free entry to China.

Lin highlighted that the initiative aims to facilitate international travel and exchanges. Alongside the expanded list, China will also optimize its visa-free policy. Key changes include adding “exchange visits” as a valid reason for visa-free entry and extending the maximum stay duration from 15 to 30 days.

Starting November 30, 2024, citizens of the 38 visa-free countries, including the newly added nine, can travel to China without a visa for business, tourism, family visits, exchange programs, or transits of up to 30 days.

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