China Adds Greece to its Visa-free Travel Program

Greece, Cyprus, Denmark, and Slovenia are among the latest European countries whose citizens will be able to travel to China for up to 15 days without a visa, according to a new pilot program announced by the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Following a similar recent announcement for Norway, Beijing has extended visa-free travel to these four nations, emphasizing that the exemption applies to both leisure and business visits.

Citizens from these countries will be eligible for visa-free entry into China starting from October 15, 2024, until December 31, 2025, as part of the trial program.

Foreign ministers’ meetings in New York

The announcement of the visa exemption came shortly after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Greek and Slovenian counterparts, Giorgos Gerapetritis and Tanja Falon, in New York during the United Nations General Assembly.

During the meetings, Wang Yi highlighted the historical ties between Greece and China, referencing the ancient Silk Road, and expressed appreciation for Greece’s friendly policies towards China. He emphasized the importance of enhancing cultural exchanges and practical cooperation, stating that both countries should continue strengthening their strategic partnership.

China’s tourism market: Pre- and post-pandemic recovery

It should be noted that prior to the pandemic, China was rapidly building its tourism sector, which is now gradually recovering. In an effort to reclaim a leading position in global tourism, the Chinese government is implementing new policies to attract more European visitors.

The full list of European countries now included in the visa-free entry program encompasses Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovenia, Spain, and Switzerland. Citizens from these nations can visit China for short stays without a visa until the end of 2025.

In addition to the visa-free travel program, China has also streamlined its visa application process for longer stays. The country has simplified the required documentation, eliminated COVID-19 travel prerequisites, reduced visa fees, and now offers walk-in visa applications at its embassies, further facilitating business and travel relations with international partners.