China to expand visa-free entry and digital border services for international travellers

China is preparing a new round of immigration reforms aimed at making international travel more convenient by expanding visa-free entry programmes, improving border procedures and accelerating the digital transformation of immigration services, as reported by Xinhua News Agency, a TV BRICS partner.

The Ministry of Public Security announced that the measures form part of the country's broader strategy to promote institutional openness and facilitate cross-border travel for foreign visitors.

Among the planned reforms is the further enhancement of visa-free transit and entry policies, alongside the wider use of digital travel documents, including passports and permits, to simplify travel and reduce administrative procedures.

Authorities also plan to expand the availability of smart border clearance channels, allowing eligible travellers to pass through immigration more efficiently. In addition, immigration services are expected to move progressively towards fully online processing, giving travellers easier access to visas, residence permits and other entry-related services.

China will continue refining its visa and residency policies while improving digital immigration platforms designed to provide faster and more convenient services for international visitors.

China has steadily broadened its visa facilitation policies in recent years. The country currently offers unilateral visa-free entry to citizens of 50 countries, while travellers from 55 countries are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit programme through 65 designated ports of entry.

The latest official figures highlight the growing popularity of these measures. During the first half of 2026, visa-free arrivals by foreign nationals increased by 30.6 per cent year on year, exceeding 17.8 million entries. Visa-free travellers accounted for 77.7 per cent of all international arrivals, reflecting rising demand for simplified travel procedures.

Officials expect the continued expansion of visa-free policies and digital immigration services to strengthen China's appeal as a destination for tourism, business and international exchanges while supporting the country's wider efforts to improve connectivity with global markets.