By Sumavaya Iqbal 
China has officially broadened its visa-free entry policy to include citizens from 74 countries, granting travelers the ability to stay in the country for up to 30 days without a visa. This move, which aims to boost tourism and business exchanges, has already seen a remarkable impact in 2024, with over 20 million international visitors entering China under the relaxed travel scheme.
The new list features a wide range of nations from across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Recent additions include high-profile countries like France, Germany, Italy, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia. By July 16, 2025, Azerbaijan will also join the list, bringing the total to 75 countries.
Despite the strategic partnership between China and Pakistan, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Pakistan has not been included in this policy. Pakistani citizens must still apply for a visa before traveling to China, and they are also excluded from the 10-day visa-free transit program available to select countries.
The 30-day visa-free access has been extended to countries such as:
- Europe: Germany, Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, and more
- Asia & Oceania: Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, Uzbekistan, South Korea
- Middle East: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait
- Latin America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay
- Others: Israel, Turkey, Vietnam
Meanwhile, countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom are offered a 10-day visa-free transit under strict conditions at designated airports and seaports.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has indicated that the visa policy will remain under regular review, which leaves the door open for future additions. However, no official timeline has been given for the inclusion of Pakistan or other South Asian countries.