China confirms visa-free travel for UK and Canadian nationals
BBC World
February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
China has announced a new visa-free travel policy for British and Canadian nationals, allowing them to visit mainland China without a visa for up to 30 days starting from 17 February. This move aligns UK and Canadian passport holders with over 50 other countries that already enjoy similar privileges, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia, and Japan. The policy initially runs until 31 December and applies to travel purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. China's foreign ministry described the change as a step to "further facilitate people-to-people exchanges" between the two regions.
The policy is expected to benefit hundreds of thousands of British travelers, with an estimated 620,000 visits projected in 2024 according to UK statistics. During his recent visit to China, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak highlighted the importance of stronger business ties and expressed that many companies are eager to expand their presence in China. While the agreement aims to streamline travel and enhance trade relations in sectors like green technology, healthcare, and finance, it has also sparked criticism from some who argue that the UK government's push to reset relations with Beijing overlooks concerns about human rights and national security.
The decision to implement this visa-free policy comes as part of a broader effort by China to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote economic collaboration. By aligning its visa rules with those of major global economies, China seeks to position itself as a more accessible destination for international travelers and investors. However, the move has been met with mixed reactions, reflecting both opportunities and underlying tensions in the complex relationship between China and Western nations like the UK and Canada.
For readers interested in global politics and international relations, this policy shift highlights China's strategic efforts to deepen connections with key partners while addressing
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/15/2026