China will include Australia in its visa waiver program in a move that will streamline travel and tourism to the Asian nation, China’s Premier Li Qiang has announced during a visit to Canberra.
The news means Aussies will be granted 15-day visa-free travel to China and aligns Australia with New Zealand and several European nations that already enjoy visa-free travel to the country, the ABC reported.
The Chinese Premier also confirmed an agreement on two-way access to long-term multiple-entry visas for tourism.
In a statement, he said that the two nations would look to “strengthen exchanges and cooperation” across multiple sectors including “science and technology, culture, sports, education, academia, aviation, health” and of course, tourism.
“We agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access to five-year multiple entry visas for tourism, business and visiting family members so as to better facilitate personal exchanges. China will also include Australia in its visa waiver program,” he said.
Easier travel to China & Australia welcomed
In a joint statement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Premier following the Australia-China Annual Leaders’ Meeting, both sides lauded “the further increase of people-to-people exchanges and highlighted the important role these played in deepening the bilateral relationship”.
They welcomed the rise in tourists, students and business people travelling between countries, supported by more direct flights.
Aiming to facilitate easier and more frequent exchanges, they also welcomed the new multi-entry visas, valid for up to three to five years, for business, tourism and family visits.
The two sides also reached an agreement on deepening co-operation on giant panda conservation, which will see China provide two younger giant pandas to Adelaide Zoo.
Tour operator reacts
One of Australia’s leading tour operators in China, Wendy Wu Tours, hailed Beijing’s decision to allow Aussies visa-free entry into China following the launch of the country’s visa-free policies last year.
“As the number one China touring specialist in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, we are thrilled about the opportunities this presents for travellers,” the company’s Founder Wendy Wu remarked.
“Today’s announcement is very welcome news. This visa-free policy will make short trips more accessible and straightforward, and we’re positive it will encourage a robust return to destination China for Aussie holidaymakers.
“At Wendy Wu Tours, we have always aimed to make travel as seamless and enjoyable as possible, and this new policy aligns perfectly with our mission.
“It’s a fantastic, positive update for all Australians dreaming of exploring China’s rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes as a holiday experience.”
In May, Wendy Wu Tours’ hosted its inaugural China mega famil, transporting more than 100 travel advisors to explore the lesser-known Changsha and Hunan provinces.
