Friday, November 29, 2024 Australians can now enjoy visa-free travel to China for up to 30 days, doubling the previous 15-day allowance introduced in July 2024. The Chinese Embassy in Canberra announced the change, which will take effect on November 30, 2024, and remain in place until at least the end of 2025. Simplified Travel for Australians The visa-free policy applies to Australians holding ordinary passports traveling to China for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, transit, and cultural exchanges.
Travelers can stay for up to 30 days per entry under the arrangement. However, those with diplomatic or official passports or those who do not meet the stated conditions will still need to apply for a visa. The policy is part of China’s broader strategy to boost inbound tourism and business travel by easing entry requirements.
It also eliminates the approximately AUD 100 fee for a single-entry tourist visa and the need for an in-person visit to a Chinese visa office in Australia. Enhanced Travel Options and Economic Impact China’s visa-free entry now extends to nearly 40 countries, including New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several European nations. In addition to visa-free stays, Australians can also apply for multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years for tourism, business, and family visits.
This policy change coincides with a steady increase in flights between China and Australia, as Chinese airlines ramp up operations and Cathay Pacific remains.