Canadian travellers no longer need a visa to visit China

The new policy will be in effect until the end of 2026. Here’s what you need to know

Published Feb 24, 2026 • 2 minute read

Canadians are now able to travel visa-free to China for up to 30 days, with the policy in place until at least the end of 2026. Above, the Shanghai skyline. Photo by Edward He /UNSPLASH

In a major shift in travel policy, Canadians can now visit China without a visa as of Feb. 17. This comes as good news for those who have the Great Wall of China on their travel bucket list.

The new measure is expected to boost tourism and cultural exchange between Canada and China. Previously, Canadian tourists with the hopes of entering mainland China were required to complete a lengthy visa application process and pay around $140 in fees.

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During a trip to China in January, the first by a Canadian prime minister since 2017, Prime Minister Mark Carney shared that Chinese President Xi Jinping had committed to visa-free access for Canadians. But it wasn’t officially confirmed by China’s foreign ministry until earlier this month.

Canadians are now able to travel visa-free to China for up to 30 days, with the policy in place until at least the end of 2026.

In recent years, China has eased visa rules for a growing list of Western countries, including New Zealand, Australia and the majority of Europe. This was part of an overall effort to breathe life back into international travel and stimulate tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic. China’s tourism industry — airlines, local businesses and hotels — were hit hard by travel restrictions and have struggled to find their footing since.

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The decision to include Canadians in the visa-free policy reflects an effort to rebuild this tourism as people resume international travel.

China is known for a mix of tourism that blends ancient history and panoramic landscapes with lively modern cities and a foodie scene. With a variety of regional dishes and street food, visitors won’t go hungry. Dumplings, noodles, Peking duck, dim sum and hot pot are just a few of the dishes that travellers will find on restaurant menus.

Aside from tasting the flavours of China, travellers can explore sites like the Forbidden City in Beijing, revel in the beauty of imperial palaces, wander through natural scenery and experience energetic cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen.

With the new visa-free travel policy for Canadians, trip planning is streamlined and free from the overwhelming paperwork and additional costs that make your head spin. China’s tourism authorities hope this shift will translate into more visitors.