China has announced visa‑free entry for citizens of the United Kingdom and Canada, granting travellers from both countries the ability to enter without a visa for stays of up to one month. Chinese authorities confirmed the decision on Saturday, marking a significant easing of travel restrictions and a notable gesture amid years of diplomatic strain.
The move follows a January 16 meeting in Beijing between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. After the talks, Chinese officials said the proposal for 30‑day visa‑free access for Canadians was under active review. The next day, China’s foreign ministry noted discussions were ongoing, but the final approval has now arrived.
Analysts say the decision signals Beijing’s intent to stabilize and rebuild ties with both countries. Relations between China and Canada deteriorated sharply after the 2018 arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Vancouver, followed by Canada’s ban on Huawei’s 5G equipment. Tensions with the UK have also simmered over security and trade issues.
While China has extended visa‑free access, it remains unclear whether Canada will reciprocate. Chinese travelers currently do not enjoy full visa‑free entry to Canada; instead, they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) under specific conditions.
Beijing’s latest step is widely viewed as an effort to boost tourism, trade and diplomatic engagement and perhaps turn a page on years of friction with London and Ottawa.
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