China has made travel easier for international visitors by extending its visa fee discount policy until December 31, 2026, allowing tourists, business travelers, and frequent visitors to benefit from reduced visa charges.
Under the extended policy, visa applicants will pay approximately 25% lower fees compared to pre-2023 rates. The discounted fees will apply to single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry visas, while the application process and eligibility criteria will remain unchanged.
China has also extended the exemption from fingerprint collection for visa applicants until the end of 2026. Applicants seeking tourist, business, family visit, or transit visas for stays of up to 180 days will not be required to submit fingerprints. Authorities said the measure aims to simplify the visa process and reduce processing time.
The visa fee reduction policy was initially introduced to revive international travel following global disruptions and reflects China’s long-term commitment to attracting foreign tourists. Embassies of several countries, including France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Saudi Arabia, have confirmed that no additional conditions have been introduced under the extension.
Officials clarified that the fee reduction applies only to official embassy visa charges, while standard service fees will continue to apply for applications submitted through visa application centres.
In addition, China has confirmed that its 30-day unilateral visa-free entry policy for citizens of 45 countries will remain in effect until December 31, 2026, further easing travel for eligible foreign nationals.
