China Visa-Free Entry UK Canada 2026: 30-Day Stay Opens Today for UK and Canada Passport Holders

Published: 2026-02-17T15:45+05:30 (IST)

By Xavio

British and Canadian travelers arrive in China as the new 30-day visa-free entry policy takes effect on February 17, 2026, boosting tourism and business travel.

China has rolled out a welcome China visa-free entry policy starting today, 17 February 2026, allowing ordinary passport holders from the United Kingdom and Canada to visit mainland China without a visa for up to 30 days. The temporary measure, confirmed by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and effective through 31 December 2026, aims to boost tourism, business ties, and people-to-people exchanges following recent high-level diplomatic engagements.

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This extension of visa-free access applies to short-term visits for tourism, business, family reunions, transit, or exchanges. Highlights include:

• Eligible Nationalities: Ordinary passport holders from the United Kingdom and Canada (building on similar recent policies for other countries like Australia and select European nations).

• Duration: Up to 30 days per entry; multiple entries permitted within the validity period.

• Purpose: Tourism, business meetings, family visits, short-term exchanges, or transit (not for work, study, or long-term residence).

• Entry Points: Applies to most international airports, ports, and land borders (with standard customs and health checks still required).

• Validity Period: Runs from 17 February 2026 to 31 December 2026 – a Lunar New Year boost for travel recovery.

The policy aligns with China's broader efforts to stimulate inbound tourism and economic recovery post-pandemic, making short trips easier without the hassle of visa applications. Indian travellers are not yet included in this specific announcement, but similar visa-free or simplified schemes have expanded for several Asian and European nationalities in recent years.

Practical Tips for Travellers

• No pre-application needed – just arrive with a valid passport (at least 6 months validity recommended).

• Proof of onward/return travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds may be requested at entry.

• Overstaying can result in fines or future entry bans, so plan stays carefully.

• Track any updates via official channels, as policies can evolve quickly.

This move comes amid growing global mobility trends and could pave the way for further reciprocal arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does this China visa-free entry apply to all passport types?

No – only ordinary passports. Diplomatic, official, or service passports may have separate rules.

Q: Can I extend my stay beyond 30 days?

Generally no under this policy; apply for a visa extension or new visa if needed for longer stays.

Q: Is this policy permanent or temporary?

It's temporary until 31 December 2026, but China has extended similar schemes in the past.

Q: What about Indian passport holders?

Not covered under today's announcement. Indian nationals typically require a visa, though group tours or transit exemptions may apply in limited cases.

Q: Where can I confirm the latest entry rules?

Check official sources from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs or embassy websites.

For official confirmation and full policy details, visit China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa-free entry announcements.

For the latest China visa news, entry requirements, and travel guides tailored for Indian applicants, explore our dedicated China immigration section.