Visa-free travel to China from September 2025
From September 15, 2025, China will introduce trial visa-free regime for Russian citizensHaving a regular passport. Without a visa, you can enter for up to 30 days. The regime will operate until September 14, 2026.
Conditions of visa-free regime
- Period of action: from September 15, 2025 to September 14, 2026, as a trial mode for one year.
- Who can take advantage: Russian citizens who own Ordinary (not official, not diplomatic) Foreign passports.
- Permissible duration of staybefore 30 days for one trip.
- Permitted travel purposes:
- tourism;
- business trips;
- visiting relatives and friends;
- cultural or academic exchanges;
- transit through China.
- Limitationsvisa-free spreadless work, study, journalism and other official or professional purposes – this will require the issuance of an appropriate visa.
Context and reasons for decision
1. Strengthening bilateral ties
The Deputy Foreign Minister stressed that China attaches great importance to the development of exchange between the peoples of the two countries and seeks to strengthen the strategic partnership with Russia. “We are glad that more Russian friends will visit China,” he said.
2. Impact on tourist flow
After the announcement of the news, the number of requests for tickets to China increased by about one and a half times. Tour operators expect a sharp increase in travel: bookings, routes and cooperation travel agencies will be actively developed.
How many people are coming? - Prospects for tourism
- Entering new opportunities. In 2024, Russian outbound tourism grew by 15.4%, while Turkey remains the leader, collecting about 38.5% of the flow. But now China has a real chance to enter the top 5 favorite destinations of Russians.
- Tourism demand. In response to the news, Chinese resources recorded an increase in interest in China: hotels and flights — requests tripled.
Basic facts
| Parameter | Details. |
| Entering into force | 15 September 2025 |
| It's over. | September 14, 2026 |
| Parameter of regime | Trial, for a year. |
| Duration of stay | 30 days. |
| Purpose of travel | Tourism, business, visits, exchanges, transit |
| Prohibited targets | Study, work, journalism, etc. |
Conclusions and projections
- China is taking a strategic step toward further rapprochement with Russia by simplifying visa requirements.
- It is likely that the regime will become permanent, provided the successful implementation and growth of the flow of visitors.
- Significant growth of tourist and business flow from Russia, expansion of air routes and tourist offer is expected.
- A mirror reaction from Russia is possible – simplification of visa procedures for Chinese citizens.
From September 15, 2025, Russians will have a unique opportunity to visit China without visas - for short-term trips up to 30 days and for a number of purposes. The move could usher in a new era in tourism and exchanges between countries.
