China announces plans for new national electronic visa system to boost tourism

China plans to digitize entry procedures and expand visa-free access for international visitors

China is preparing to transition toward a national electronic visa system as part of a major strategy to revitalize inbound tourism. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced a new policy framework on March 20, 2026, aimed at simplifying how foreign travelers enter the country.

While no exact date has been announced, the announcement marks a gradual departure from the traditional paper-heavy, embassy-based application process that has defined Chinese travel for decades.

This move signals a significant structural shift toward the digital standards already adopted by other major global destinations, such as Indonesia and Thailand.

Modernizing the Chinese entry experience

The proposed eVisa follows a successful pilot of the "Port eVisa" system in Shanghai in 2024. This digital-only permit allows information to be issued electronically without a physical passport sticker. Under the new national plan, authorities intend to scale these digital efficiencies to a broader range of travelers.

Beyond the visa application itself, China is also digitizing the physical arrival process. The National Immigration Administration is encouraging the use of a digital arrival card, which travelers can complete online up to 90 days before their trip.

By providing personal and travel details in advance, visitors receive a QR code that speeds up processing at border control.

Expansion of visa-free travel to China

In addition to digital reforms, China is continuing its aggressive expansion of unilateral visa exemptions. Citizens from 48 countries and territories can currently enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. This policy covers tourism, business, and family visits, and is largely set to remain in effect until December 31, 2026.

What this means for travelers

For most international visitors, the shift means a future with fewer trips to consulates and reduced paperwork. While the full eVisa system is still in the pilot and study phase, the combination of expanded visa-free lists and digital arrival cards makes China more accessible now than at any point in the last decade.

"The goal is to enhance the country’s international appeal and support the development of trade in services," The Ministry of Commerce stated regarding the new measures.

Travelers should check the current list of visa-exempt countries before booking, as the "orderly expansion" of these visa-free policies is expected to continue throughout 2026.