China has announced a major policy shift that will significantly impact travel between the two nations.
Starting September 15, 2025, Russian citizens holding ordinary passports can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days.
This groundbreaking decision marks a new chapter in China-Russia relations and opens exciting opportunities for business, tourism, and cultural exchange.
What the New Visa-Free Policy Means
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun confirmed this historic announcement on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
From September 15, 2025, to September 14, 2026, ordinary passport holders from Russia will be allowed to enter China without a visa for business, tourism, family visits, exchanges, and transit stays of up to 30 days.
This one-year trial period represents a significant expansion of China’s visa-free travel policies.
The decision comes as part of China’s broader strategy to facilitate international travel and strengthen diplomatic relationships with key partners.
Key Details of the Russia-China Visa-Free Agreement
Duration and Validity
- Trial Period: September 15, 2025 – September 14, 2026
- Stay Length: Up to 30 days per visit
- Passport Type: Ordinary Russian passports only
Permitted Activities
The new policy covers multiple travel purposes:
- Business meetings and conferences
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Family visits and personal trips
- Cultural and educational exchanges
- Transit through Chinese territory
Important Requirements
While Russians can now enter China without a visa, certain requirements remain:
- Valid ordinary Russian passport
- Proof of travel purpose if requested
- Return or onward travel arrangements
- Sufficient funds for the stay
- Registration with local authorities within 24 hours
Why This Policy Matters for China-Russia Relations
Under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Russia relations have been operating at a high level, as stated by the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
This visa-free policy reflects the deepening partnership between the two nations and their commitment to enhancing people-to-people connections.
The timing of this announcement is particularly significant, coming amid strengthened bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
Bilateral trade reached a record $244.8 billion in 2024, more than doubling over the past seven years, demonstrating the robust economic relationship that supports this travel facilitation.
Tourism Statistics: A Growing Partnership
The numbers show impressive growth in travel between China and Russia.
The mutual tourism flow between Russia and China reached 2.7 million visits in 2024, and grew by 20% in the first quarter of 2025.
Even more remarkable, by the end of 2024, mutual tourist flows had increased 2.5 times, reaching 2.8 million people.
Russian tourists have become increasingly important for China’s tourism industry.
The dramatic growth in Chinese tourists (731,900 arrivals) is particularly noteworthy, accounting for over half of all foreign tourist arrivals to Russia during this period.
How This Compares to China’s Other Visa-Free Policies
China has been actively expanding its visa-free travel options.
From November 30, 2024, visa-free stays in China will increase from 15 to 30 days, and nine new countries will be added to the list of nations benefiting from the unilateral visa-free policy.
The Russia policy aligns with China’s broader international strategy.
From June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026, citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay holding ordinary passports will be eligible for a 30-day visa-free entry to China.
Current Visa-Free Countries for China (30-day stays)
| Region | Countries | Valid Until |
|---|---|---|
| Europe | France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Austria, Ireland, Hungary, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Monaco, Poland | Dec 31, 2025 |
| Asia-Pacific | Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, Brunei, New Zealand | Various dates |
| Americas | Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay | May 31, 2026 |
| Europe/Asia | Russia | Sep 14, 2026 |
Economic Impact and Business Opportunities
The visa-free policy is expected to boost economic cooperation significantly.
With China remaining Russia’s number one trading partner for the 15th consecutive year, accounting for almost 34% of total trade, easier travel will facilitate business relationships.
Key sectors that could benefit include:
- Technology and innovation partnerships
- Energy cooperation projects
- Agricultural trade expansion
- Manufacturing collaborations
- Tourism and hospitality services
What Russian Travelers Need to Know
Before You Travel
- Check Passport Validity: Ensure your ordinary Russian passport has at least six months remaining
- Plan Your Stay: Maximum 30 days per visit during the trial period
- Prepare Documentation: While no visa is required, carry proof of accommodation and return travel
- Travel Insurance: Recommended for medical coverage during your stay
Upon Arrival in China
- Immigration Process: Present passport and complete arrival forms
- Registration Requirement: Register with local police or hotel within 24 hours
- Contact Information: Keep embassy contact details handy
- Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with Chinese regulations and customs
Popular Destinations for Russian Tourists
Based on current travel patterns, Russians often visit:
- Beijing: Historical sites and business centers
- Shanghai: Modern attractions and commercial hubs
- Guangzhou: Trade fairs and southern China experiences
- Shenzhen: Technology and innovation tours
- Xi’an: Cultural heritage and historical exploration
Travel Safety and Practical Tips
Health and Safety
- Carry copies of important documents
- Keep emergency contact information accessible
- Understand local medical facilities and insurance coverage
- Follow current health guidelines and requirements
Cultural Considerations
- Learn basic Mandarin phrases or use translation apps
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Understand payment methods (mobile payments are dominant)
- Be aware of internet restrictions and VPN considerations
Future Implications
This visa-free trial could lead to permanent arrangements if successful.
The policy demonstrates both countries’ commitment to strengthening ties and could inspire similar agreements with other nations.
The spokesperson added “We welcome more Russian friends to visit China often and regularly”, indicating China’s long-term interest in maintaining strong people-to-people connections.
Extended Transit Policies
Beyond the Russia-specific policy, China has also expanded its transit options.
Under the new policy, the visa-free transit period has been extended from the previous 72 or 144 hours to 240 hours (10 days).
Additionally, 21 new ports of entry have been added, increasing the total number of visa-free entry/exit points to 60.
This makes China an attractive transit destination for Russian travelers heading to other Asian countries or conducting multi-country business trips.
Planning Your Trip: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Pre-Departure Preparation
- Verify passport validity (6+ months recommended)
- Research your intended destinations
- Book accommodations and transportation
- Check current entry requirements and health guidelines
2. Arrival Process
- Complete immigration forms accurately
- Present passport to border officials
- Collect luggage and proceed through customs
- Register with local authorities within 24 hours
3. During Your Stay
- Maintain valid travel documents at all times
- Respect the 30-day limit
- Keep registration documents updated
- Follow local laws and regulations
4. Departure
- Allow sufficient time for exit procedures
- Ensure all obligations are met
- Keep travel records for future reference
Impact on Tourism Industry
The policy is expected to significantly impact both countries’ tourism sectors.
Hotels, tour operators, and airlines are preparing for increased demand. Chinese tourism businesses are developing Russian-language services and cultural programs specifically designed for Russian visitors.
Similarly, Russian travel agencies are creating specialized China tour packages, taking advantage of the simplified entry process. This mutual preparation suggests both
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