Operators expect a rush of enquiries for China following the government’s announcement that UK passport holders will soon be able to travel without a visa.
Visa-free travel across mainland China will be permitted for trips of under 30 days.
Downing Street confirmed that while the change will not come into effect immediately, Beijing has committed to unilateral visa-free entry for UK citizens, with a start date yet to be confirmed. British passport-holders currently require a visa to enter mainland China.
The arrangement will apply to both business travellers and tourists and will bring the UK into line with around 50 other countries that already benefit from visa-free access, including France and Germany.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer secured the landmark agreement during his visit to Beijing, delivering a major boost for British tourism to the country.
Travellers can still transit through China to other destinations without a visa under specific conditions, primarily through 24-hour or 144-hour visa-free transit policies depending on the region.
Tour operators respond
The no-visa deal has been warmly welcomed by UK tour operators, who say it removes one of the biggest barriers to travel and comes as China continues to reopen fully to international visitors post-Covid.
Joanna Reeve, Intrepid Travel’s UK Director, said: “It’s fantastic news that UK tourists will be able to travel visa-free to China for up to 30 days. We’ve been seeing strong interest in the country already – with bookings from UK customers up 71% last year compared to 2024 – driven by our family and 18-35s trips.
“The changes will make the process of visiting far simpler and more appealing. Many travellers told us the visa restrictions held them back, so this change will give them the confidence they need to finally make that booking.”
Gary King, Head of Trade Sales at China specialist operator Wendy Wu Tours, was also enthusiastic saying: “This is genuinely game-changing for China travel. Visa-free access removes one of the biggest practical and psychological barriers British travellers have faced, and it instantly makes China feel more accessible, more spontaneous, and far less intimidating.
“We expect this to give traveller confidence a real boost and to accelerate demand, particularly from those who have been waiting for the right moment to go. China is open, welcoming, and extraordinary to explore — and this announcement makes it easier than ever for people to experience it.”
“Visa-free travel opens an exciting new chapter for anyone wanting to explore China,” said Peter Chipchase, Chief Brand Officer at Abercrombie and Kent.
“A&K has long been expertly crafting itineraries, revealing the country’s rich culture and hidden wonders and this change makes it even easier for travellers to discover them. We’re confident this announcement will encourage more UK travellers to visit, building growth and excitement for the destination.”
Robin Ball, Director of Bamboo Travel, said the announcement was “fabulous news” for companies selling holidays to China. The operator currently offers 24 itineraries to the destination.
“We had already predicted that 2026 would be a great year to visit China, now that the country is fully reopened and welcoming international visitors with open arms,” he said.
“The expanded high-speed rail network makes travelling around the country easier than ever.”
Ball highlighted China’s breadth of appeal, from its iconic historical sites and dramatic natural scenery to its cutting-edge cities and world-renowned cuisine.
“China really does have something to offer everyone,” he added.
Julia Lo Bue-Said OBE, CEO of The Advantage Travel Partnership, added: “We warmly welcome China’s decision to grant British citizens visa-free entry for up to 30 days.
“Travel between the UK and China has seen a robust resurgence over the last two years, fuelled by restored flight connectivity and strengthening commercial ties. Today’s announcement is a significant milestone that will undoubtedly accelerate this momentum across both leisure and business travel.
“At Advantage, we champion anything that makes the world more accessible believing that frictionless travel is a powerful catalyst for cultural exchange and economic growth.
“For those looking to explore China under these new rules we do recommend booking through your local Advantage travel agent who will be able to ensure you are fully compliant with any travel requirements, as well receiving the best value for flights and accommodation, using their expert knowledge.”
China’s breadth of appeal
First-time visitors can explore highlights such as the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Great Wall of China, Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, encounters with giant pandas and a scenic cruise along the Li River.
For repeat visitors, the country’s vast size and diversity make it one of the most rewarding destinations in the world.
Beyond the classic sights, travellers can visit the national parks of Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou, travel by high-speed train along the ancient Silk Road, explore rural Guizhou and Guangxi, stay in traditional tulou houses in Fujian Province, or walk among the rice terraces of Yuanyang and Longsheng. Other highlights include climbing the sacred Buddhist mountain of Emei Shan or visiting the Giant Buddha at Leshan.
Announcing the visa-free deal, Starmer said the move would also support UK businesses looking to expand in the country.
“As one of the world’s economic powerhouses, businesses have been crying out for ways to grow their footprints in China,” he said. “We’ll make it easier for them to do so, including via relaxed visa rules for short-term travel, supporting them to expand abroad, all while boosting growth and jobs at home.”
