Canadian passport holders will be able to travel to China visa-free starting this Tuesday, February 17, until the end of 2026. A spokesperson for China's Foreign Affairs Ministry announced the new policy, stating that Canadians can enter China for up to 30 days for business, tourism, family visits, or transit purposes. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed the change, highlighting that it will ease travel, support business exchanges, and strengthen ties between the two countries. The visa exemption also applies to citizens of the United Kingdom.
This development follows Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to Beijing in January, where he met with President Xi Jinping and discussed easing travel restrictions. Carney hailed the agreement as a sign of a "new strategic partnership" between Canada and China. For years, relations between the two countries have been strained. Previously, Canadians needed to go through a lengthy application process and pay approximately $140 for a visa to enter mainland China.
The visa-free access is expected to boost tourism and trade between Canada and China. China has been dropping visa requirements for other Western nations in recent years as it seeks to increase tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to visa-free travel, Canada and China have reached a preliminary trade deal aimed at reducing tariffs on goods such as canola seed and electric vehicles.
While the visa exemption offers exciting opportunities for Canadians, travelers are reminded that they cannot engage in paid employment or long-term studies without proper authorization. Stays are limited to a maximum of 30 days. The new agreement represents a significant step in strengthening Canada-China relations and fostering greater collaboration between the two nations.
