BEIJING – In a significant move to mend diplomatic ties and boost international travel, China has officially announced a visa-free entry policy for Canadian citizens. Starting from Tuesday, February 17, 2026, Canadian tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family will no longer require a visa to enter mainland China. This landmark decision follows years of diplomatic friction and marks a major shift in the relationship between the two nations.
Under the new regulations, Canadian ordinary passport holders can stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa. This exemption covers a wide range of travel purposes, including tourism, business engagements, visiting relatives, and transit. The policy is currently scheduled to remain in effect until December 31, 2026, aligning with similar concessions recently granted to citizens of the United Kingdom and several European nations.
The breakthrough is largely attributed to a high-level summit held in January 2026 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. During the meeting, Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Xi Jinping discussed a “new strategic partnership” aimed at reviving economic and cultural exchanges. The move is expected to provide significant relief for travelers, who previously faced a rigorous application process and fees of approximately $140.
Beyond diplomatic goodwill, the policy is a strategic effort by Beijing to rejuvenate its tourism and hospitality sectors, which have struggled to return to pre-pandemic levels. For Canada, which is home to a Chinese diaspora of nearly two million people, the decision is expected to facilitate thousands of family reunions and simplify logistics for Canadian businesses operating in one of the world’s largest economies.
