Russia and China Launch Mutual 30-Day Visa-Free Travel

Russia has formally welcomed the introduction of a reciprocal visa-free travel arrangement with China, a move President Vladimir Putin says will strengthen ties between the two nations. Speaking in a video address ahead of his official visit to Beijing on May 19-20, Putin emphasized the policy's potential to boost business, tourism, and people-to-people connections.

"We welcome the introduction of a mutual visa-free regime between our countries," Putin stated. "This not only encourages trade and travel but also opens fresh opportunities for Russians and Chinese to interact and build relationships."

The initiative began on September 15, 2025, when China launched a one-year trial allowing Russian citizens with ordinary passports to enter without a visa for up to 30 days. In response, Putin signed a decree in December extending the same privilege to Chinese nationals. Under this reciprocal agreement, Chinese travelers can visit Russia visa-free for stays of up to 30 days through September 14, 2026.

For travelers, this means simpler planning and fewer bureaucratic hurdles. A Moscow-based tour operator noted that bookings for trips to Chinese cities like Shanghai and Beijing have already increased. Meanwhile, Chinese tourists are eyeing destinations from Moscow to Lake Baikal. The arrangement marks a significant step in warming relations between the two countries, with both sides expecting a surge in cross-border visits. Putin's upcoming visit is expected to further solidify this partnership.