China Extends Visa-Free Access for UK
China has extended 30-day visa-free access to UK nationals, effective since February 17, 2026, making it easier for British travelers to visit destinations like Beijing and Shanghai. The move is expected to boost inbound travel and tourism between the UK and China.
This latest move is part of a broader Chinese strategy to boost its post-pandemic economy and tourism sector. In 2025, over 30 million foreign nationals entered China visa-free, a significant increase from the previous year. The decision to include the UK was announced following a visit to Beijing by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in January 2026. This unilateral policy, which is in effect until December 31, 2026, also extends to Canadian citizens. The UK joins a growing list of over 50 countries, including many European nations, Australia, and New Zealand, that have been granted visa-free access to China. Among the "Five Eyes" intelligence-sharing alliance, the United States is the only member whose citizens are still required to obtain a visa for entry into China. Before the implementation of this policy, British travelers faced a multi-step application process and a fee of around £130 for a single-entry visa. In 2024, approximately 620,000 UK residents traveled to China. Following the announcement, airlines have reported a notable increase in flight bookings from the UK to Chinese cities.
