China Expands Visa-Free Access to 79 Countries, Including UK and Canada

Beijing has significantly expanded its visa-free entry program, now encompassing 79 countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada, effective Tuesday, February 17, 2026. This move aims to bolster tourism and strengthen business ties.

Visa-Free Entry Details

Citizens of the UK and Canada can now enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days for business, tourism, family visits and exchange programs . The policy is initially set to remain in effect until December 31, 2026, though extensions are possible, as has been the case in the past .

Expanding Global Access

The expansion brings the total number of countries with visa-free access to China to 79. Most European nations already qualified for visa-free entry, along with select countries in Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East .

Transit Visas for Select Countries

Citizens of the United States and Indonesia are eligible for a 10-day transit visa if they possess a ticket for onward travel to a destination outside of China .

Political Context

The decision to grant visa-free access to the UK and Canada follows recent visits to China by their prime ministers, Keir Starmer and Mark Carney, signaling an effort to improve relations after a period of tension . Both leaders are focused on revitalizing ties with Beijing .

Business and Tourism Benefits

Business executives and tourists have long faced a cumbersome visa application process, and this change is expected to be welcomed by both groups . Sir Keir Starmer noted that British businesses had been “crying out for ways to grow their footprints in China” .