China is easing travel restrictions for citizens of the United Kingdom and Canada, allowing visa-free entry beginning Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The move, which aims to boost tourism and business ties, comes after visits to Beijing by both countries’ prime ministers seeking to strengthen relations with China.
Nationals with ordinary passports from the UK and Canada can enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days for purposes including business, tourism, visiting family and friends, and attending exchange programs, according to a statement from China’s foreign ministry. This policy will remain in effect until December 31, 2026.
The decision follows official trips to China by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in January, where both leaders discussed improving bilateral relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping. During those meetings, discussions included easing travel restrictions for their citizens. The BBC reports that Starmer and Xi agreed to relax travel rules.
With this change, China now offers visa-free access to 79 countries. The Associated Press notes that the expansion of the program reflects China’s efforts to attract more visitors and investment.
The visa-free policy for UK and Canadian citizens mirrors arrangements already in place for 50 other countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia, and Japan. Approximately 620,000 British citizens traveled to China in 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics, suggesting a significant potential benefit from the relaxed rules. The Strait Times too reported on the policy confirmation.
The move could be seen as a gesture of goodwill as both the UK and Canada have been working to recalibrate their relationships with China after periods of tension. The announcement could influence future diplomatic talks and potentially open doors for increased trade and cultural exchange.
