China to offer visa-free entry for British citizens for stays under 30 days

The announcement came during Prime Minister Keir Starmer's official visit to Beijing

China will grant visa-free entry to British citizens for visits under 30 days, ending the previous visa requirement for short-term travel. The UK government announced the policy change on January 29, 2026, during Prime Minister Keir Starmer's official visit to Beijing.

The move brings the UK in line with 50 other countries that already enjoy visa-free access to China, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia, and Japan. The exemption covers both business and tourism travel.

Prime Minister Starmer said:

"As one of the world's economic powerhouses, businesses have been crying out for ways to grow their footprints in China. 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."

Chinese President Xi Jinping confirmed China's intention to implement the policy during his meeting with Starmer at the Great Hall of the People. In a statement published by the Chinese government, Xi said China is "willing to actively consider implementing unilateral visa exemption for the UK" and called for both countries to "close people-to-people exchanges and further facilitate personnel exchanges."

Part of broader trade agreements

The visa relaxation was announced alongside a series of agreements aimed at strengthening UK-China business ties. The two governments agreed to expand cooperation in healthcare, financial services, legal services, education, and skills.

A "feasibility study" will also explore whether to enter negotiations toward a bilateral services agreement, which would establish clear and legally binding rules for UK firms operating in China.

The UK is the world's second largest exporter of services, and demand from China is growing. Between 2023 and 2035, Chinese imports of professional and business services are forecast to grow by 121%, financial services by 71%, and digital services by 78%.

Currently, UK firms sell approximately £13 billion worth of services to China annually.