MARKET STRUCTURE · REGULATORY · CHINA
China adds Canada and UK to 30-day visa-free entry
Change
China will allow Canadian and British citizens to enter visa-free for up to 30 days starting February 17, 2026, bringing its visa-free list to 79 countries.
Why it matters
The change removes the standard visa application step for UK and Canadian travelers for stays up to 30 days across business, tourism, exchange programs, and family visits, effective Feb. 17, 2026. This alters lead times and administrative friction for short-notice trips, affecting corporate travel planning and event attendance windows. The 30-day limit creates a clearer boundary between short-stay travel and longer-term work/study arrangements that still require visas. The expansion also increases competitive pressure on carriers and travel intermediaries serving China routes as eligibility broadens to 79 countries.
Implications
- • Visa processing demand drops for UK/Canada short-stay China travel
- • Higher short-notice travel volume possible around Feb. 17, 2026
- • 30-day cap constrains longer assignments and extended stays
- • Air capacity and tour inventory may reprice on China routes
Who is affected
- • UK passport holders traveling to China
- • Canadian passport holders traveling to China
- • Airlines and travel agencies selling China itineraries
- • Multinationals with China business travel and short-term visits
Source
Read full article on The Hindu →
Topics
World & Politics International Affairs Diplomacy Policy & Regulation