China says it will resume visa-free policies to spur inbound travel

By Reuters September 29, 2023 | 05:15 pm PT

Passengers push their luggage through the international arrivals hall at Beijing Capital International Airport in Beijing, China January 8, 2023. Photo by Reuters

China will resume visa-free policies and consider adding more countries to its visa-exemption list to help boost the country's post-pandemic tourism business, according to a policy document released on Friday.

More international flights will be resumed or added, China's State Council said.

In a statement posted on the central government's website, it said visa-free policies and visa assurances on arrival would be promoted as well as smoother immigration clearances for cruises and self-driving tourists.

The government also called for enhanced tax-rebate services such the creation of more tax-rebate shops.