Russia Set to Introduce Visa-Free Travel for Chinese Citizens

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced plans to implement a visa-free regime for Chinese citizens.

The announcement came during a meeting with Li Hongzhong, a senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), The Caspian Post reports, citing TASS.

Starting from September 15, Chinese authorities will introduce a visa-free regime for Russian citizens with regular foreign passports, allowing stays of up to 30 days.

"Of course, Russia will reciprocate this friendly gesture. We will do the same," Putin emphasized.

According to Beijing, Russians will be able to travel to China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, or exchange visits for up to 30 days.

A bilateral agreement on a visa-free regime for organized tourist groups is already in effect between the two countries. Tours can only be organized by accredited operators from both countries, and groups must consist of at least five and no more than 50 people.

Other Chinese tourists came to Russia with regular or electronic visas. Since August 2023, an electronic visa has been available, entitling the holder to stay in Russia for up to 30 days. It can be obtained in a few days and costs about $40-50.