The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that starting from last Friday (June 21), China and Australia will issue each other five-year multiple-entry visas for business, tourism, and visiting purposes, with a stay of up to 90 days each time.
Earlier this week, during Chinese Premier Li Keqiang’s visit to Australia, China announced that Australia will be added to the visa-free list. On June 17, after meeting with Australian Prime Minister Albanese, Li Keqiang announced unilateral visa-free treatment for Australian citizens, as well as mutual provision of 3 to 5-year multiple-entry visas for travel, business, and visiting between the two countries.
Previously, Chinese citizens visiting Australia could apply for visas lasting up to one year, while frequent travelers could apply for visas lasting up to 10 years.
According to Chinese media outlet The Paper, within an hour of the announcement, the search volume for Australia flights, hotels, and other items on the Chinese travel website “Tongcheng Travel” surged by over 200%.
Since last year, China has been gradually easing entry requirements for tourists from some countries to facilitate business and leisure travel. The severe restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic over the past three years largely shut down China’s international borders.
During his visit to Australia, Li Keqiang stated that Beijing will also include Australia in the visa waiver program, allowing Australians to visit China visa-free for up to 15 days.
Countries already included in China’s 15-day visa waiver program include France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, among others.
(Reference: This article is based on relevant reports from Reuters)