Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced a new visa-waiver agreement for Australians following his recent meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra. This development allows Australian travelers to visit China without needing to apply for a visa, which previously cost $110 for a single-entry and $230 for a one-year multiple-entry visa.
Key Points of the Visa-Waiver Scheme
Eligible Activities:
Australian passport holders can enter China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit. However, the visa-free policy excludes studying, paid employment, consultancy work, professional performances, and journalism.
Implementation Date:
The start date for the visa-waiver scheme for Australians has yet to be announced. Currently, 14 countries, including New Zealand, already benefit from similar agreements with China.
Entry Requirements:
Travelers can enter China with just their passport, which must have at least six months of validity remaining. Proof of hotel bookings or return tickets are not required under the new policy.
Stay Duration:
The 15-day visa-free period begins on the day of arrival in mainland China, ending at midnight on the 15th day. Australians can use the visa-free entry as many times as they want.
Travel with Family or Groups:
The visa-free policy extends to children and group travelers, provided they meet the general requirements.
Extending Stays Beyond 15 Days
To extend their stay, travelers must visit the Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau in China. Processing times can take up to seven days, making it potentially easier to apply for a 30-day tourist visa before travel. Alternatively, travelers can reset their visa by briefly exiting to Hong Kong, Macau, or another nearby city.
Restrictions and Special Regions
Travel to Tibet and Xinjiang:
Tibet: Foreigners need a Tibet Entry Permit, which can only be obtained through a travel agency.
Xinjiang: No special permit is required, but travel is more restricted compared to other provinces, and some hotels may not accommodate foreigners.
For more information, travelers can contact the China Immigration Service Hotline at 12367 within mainland China, where English-speaking operators are available.
This visa-waiver policy aligns with China’s efforts to boost foreign capital, facilitate travel for work, study, and tourism, and promote trade cooperation.