Putin signs decree allowing visa-free entry for Chinese citizens

(MENAFN) President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree permitting Chinese citizens to enter Russia without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The measure mirrors China’s recent introduction of visa-free access for Russian nationals, which was launched on a one-year trial in September to boost travel between the two countries.

Under the new policy, Chinese travelers can visit Russia visa-free for private trips, business, tourism, or participation in scientific, cultural, political, economic, or sporting events. The rule comes into effect on December 1 and will initially remain valid until September 14, 2026.

Putin previously praised China’s decision to allow Russians visa-free entry, stating it would “undoubtedly” strengthen cultural and economic ties and promising reciprocal measures. Early indicators show the policy is already impacting tourism: Russian arrivals in China increased by 30–40% year-on-year in October.

This follows a 2022 agreement that allowed visa-free travel for organized tour groups, which also boosted tourism flows. Between January and July this year, 237,000 Russians visited China, while 262,000 Chinese tourists came to Russia.

Currently, eight Russian airlines operate 36 routes to China, while ten Chinese carriers serve 24 routes to Russia, totaling approximately 230 weekly flights. Aeroflot reported that passenger traffic to China nearly tripled in 2024, reaching 830,000 travelers, with demand concentrated in destinations including Hainan Island, Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong.

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