China Expands Visa-Free Access to Canada and the UK
Starting February 17, 2026, China has expanded its visa waiver program to include holders of regular Canadian and British passports. This move aims to boost tourism and business ties, bringing the total number of countries with visa-free access to China to 79.
Visa-Free Policy Details
The policy allows citizens of Canada and the United Kingdom to enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Permitted purposes of travel include:
- Business
- Tourism
- Visiting family or friends
- Exchange programs
- Transit
- Sports competitions
- Conferences and exhibitions
- Study tours (including summer and winter camps)
Expansion of China’s Visa-Free Program
China initially eased its visa-free policy in 2025, granting access to citizens from 48 countries for up to 30 days. With the addition of Canada and the United Kingdom, the number of eligible countries has increased to 50 AP News.
Current List of Eligible Countries
As of February 2026, the 50 countries eligible for visa-free travel to China are: 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 and Sweden.
Passport and Entry Requirements
To be eligible for visa-free entry, travelers must hold an ordinary passport valid for at least the duration of their intended stay. Temporary, emergency, or travel documents other than ordinary passports are not accepted BBC News.
Chinese border inspection authorities will examine the purpose of travel upon arrival. Travelers are advised to carry supporting documents such as invitation letters, return or onward air tickets, and accommodation bookings. Entry may be refused if the declared purpose does not meet the waiver conditions or if the traveler violates Chinese laws and regulations.
Additional Information
- Duration of Stay: The 30-day stay is calculated from the day after entry.
- Multiple Entries: Eligible nationals may enter China multiple times without a visa, with no current restrictions on the number of entries.
- Minors and Tour Groups: The visa waiver rules apply equally to individual travelers, minors, and tour group participants.
- Lost Passport: If a visa-free traveler loses their passport after entry, Chinese border authorities will verify identity and entry records.
Recent Diplomatic Shifts
The easing of visa restrictions follows recent visits to China by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, signaling a warming of relations after a period of downturn Wilson Center. These visits, along with those from leaders of other nations, reflect a broader trend of middle powers seeking to balance their relationships with both China and the United States.
Looking Ahead
The expanded visa-free policy is expected to facilitate increased people-to-people exchanges and strengthen economic ties between China and Canada, and China and the United Kingdom. The policy is initially set to remain in effect until December 31, 2026, but may be extended in the future.