This is major travel news for British and Canadian passport holders. In a significant policy shift, China has officially confirmed that citizens of the United Kingdom and Canada will be allowed to enter mainland China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days starting 17 February 2026.
For frequent travelers, business professionals, academics, families, and global explorers, this visa update changes everything.
What This Visa-Free Travel News Means?
From 17 February 2026, holders of ordinary UK and Canadian passports can travel to mainland China and stay for up to 30 days without applying for a visa in advance.
This visa-free policy applies to short-term visits including:
- Tourism
- Business meetings and commercial visits
- Family and friend visits
- Cultural exchanges
- Short-term transit
This development removes paperwork, embassy appointments, visa fees, and processing wait times for eligible travelers.
Why This China Travel News Is Big?
This is not just another travel update. It signals stronger diplomatic engagement and improved mobility between China, the United Kingdom, and Canada. For travelers, the impact is immediate:
- Faster travel planning
- Lower travel costs
- Easier business expansion into China
- More spontaneous tourism opportunities
- Increased academic and research mobility
For business professionals and entrepreneurs, this news simplifies short-term market visits and commercial networking across mainland China.
Who Can Benefit from This Visa-Free Policy?
The policy applies to:
- Ordinary passport holders from the United Kingdom
- Ordinary passport holders from Canada
Travelers intending to stay beyond 30 days, work, study, or relocate will still need to apply for the appropriate visa category.
What You Should Know Before You Travel?
Although this is excellent travel news, travelers should keep these key points in mind:
- Maximum stay: 30 days per visit
- Applies only to mainland China
- Valid from 17 February 2026
-
Standard entry requirements still apply (valid passport, onward travel proof if required, etc.)
Strategic Impact of This Visa News
This development is part of China’s broader effort to reopen and strengthen international mobility channels. By extending visa-free access to UK and Canadian nationals, China is expanding its global travel partnerships.
Expect increased tourism flows, renewed business exchanges, and deeper cultural connections in 2026.
Ref: https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/eng/xw/fyrbt/202602/t20260215_11860467.html