Tourism to China Grows with Extended Visa Fee Cuts and Simplified Entry Process

Published on December 30, 2025

In a bid to make travel more affordable and accessible for international visitors, China has officially confirmed the extension of its visa fee reductions through December 31, 2026. Initially introduced in December 2023, the reduced visa fees were initially planned to last for only one year. However, the Chinese government’s recent announcement extends the reduction, ensuring that travelers will continue to benefit from lower costs for visa applications for the next several years.

This decision, which follows the previously announced extension of the exemption from fingerprint collection for short-term visas, is part of China’s broader strategy to streamline entry processes and boost tourism. These measures are expected to attract more international visitors, making it easier and more affordable to travel to China.

Visa Fee Reductions: A Welcome Relief for Travelers

Introduced in December 2023, the visa fee reductions aimed to lower the costs associated with obtaining a Chinese visa, particularly for tourists and business travelers. Originally planned for a one-year period, the extension through 2026 is expected to make travel to China more appealing for those who might have been deterred by the visa fees. The new pricing applies to all types of short-term visas, including tourist and business visas, reducing the financial burden on travelers from around the world.

The extension of this measure is seen as part of China’s broader efforts to revive its tourism industry following the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. By making travel more affordable, the government hopes to attract more international visitors, revitalizing the country’s tourism sector and boosting the local economy.

With this extended reduction in visa fees, China is positioning itself as a more competitive destination for travelers who are looking for diverse experiences, from exploring ancient cultural landmarks like the Great Wall of China to experiencing modern attractions in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The country’s rich history, vast landscapes, and vibrant cities have long made it a top destination for travelers from around the world.

Exemption from Fingerprint Collection for Short-Term Visas

In addition to the extended visa fee reductions, China has also confirmed that the exemption from fingerprint collection for short-term visas will remain in place through December 31, 2026. This measure, which was introduced to simplify the visa application process, has proven to be a significant convenience for international travelers. By eliminating the need for fingerprinting, China has streamlined the entry process, making it faster and more convenient for tourists and business travelers to visit.

For many international visitors, the requirement for fingerprint collection could be a cumbersome and time-consuming step in the visa application process. The fingerprint exemption helps speed up the overall process and reduces the number of steps needed to obtain a visa, further improving the overall travel experience to China. As a result, the exemption has been welcomed by travelers and travel industry professionals alike.

Impact on Tourism and International Travel to China

The extension of the visa fee reductions and the continued exemption from fingerprint collection come at a time when China is looking to boost its tourism sector. The Chinese government is eager to attract more international tourists as the global tourism industry rebounds, following the restrictions and challenges of the past few years.

China is a country of immense diversity, offering a wide range of experiences for travelers. From the ancient wonders of the Forbidden City in Beijing to the stunning landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (the inspiration for the movie Avatar), and the thriving modern culture of Shanghai, the country has something for every type of traveler.

Additionally, cities like Chengdu offer visitors the chance to experience China’s rich culinary traditions, with Sichuan cuisine being a major draw for food enthusiasts. For those interested in history and culture, Xi’an is home to the famous Terracotta Warriors, while the ancient city of Luoyang offers a glimpse into China’s long and storied past.

With the visa fee reductions and fingerprint exemption in place, travelers from around the world will find it easier and more affordable to explore these destinations. The Chinese government hopes these measures will help revive tourism, bringing international visitors back to the country in greater numbers.

A More Accessible China for International Travelers

As international travel continues to recover, China’s decision to extend the visa fee reduction and fingerprint exemption sends a clear message to global tourists: the country is ready and eager to welcome visitors from abroad. The measures aim to make China more accessible and convenient for international travelers, and the continued focus on simplifying entry procedures aligns with China’s broader goal of promoting tourism and business exchange.

For travelers planning a visit to China, the extended visa fee reduction and fingerprint exemption provide a significant advantage. Not only will these measures reduce the cost and complexity of the visa application process, but they also demonstrate China’s commitment to improving the overall travel experience for international visitors.

How to Apply for a Visa to China

For those looking to visit China in the coming years, the process for applying for a visa remains straightforward. Travelers can apply for a visa through the Chinese embassy or consulate in their home country, or through visa service agencies. With the visa fee reduction in place, travelers can expect lower costs for their applications.

It is essential for travellers to ensure they meet all other visa requirements, such as possessing a valid passport, providing necessary travel documentation, and, in some cases, providing proof of travel insurance or hotel bookings. Travelers should also stay informed about any health and safety protocols, such as vaccination requirements or COVID-19 testing, which may be in place depending on global health conditions.

Conclusion

China’s decision to extend the visa fee reductions and maintain the fingerprint exemption for short-term visas until December 31, 2026, is a significant development for international travelers. These measures will make it easier and more affordable for tourists and business travelers to visit China, boosting the country’s tourism sector. As China continues to open its doors to global visitors, extended visa benefits provide a streamlined and cost-effective way to experience the country’s many cultural, historical, and modern attractions.