China eases visa restrictions for US travelers, eliminating need for round-trip tickets, hotel reservations, or invitations. Effort to revive tourism sector post-pandemic. Hindered by international flight limitations and US travel advisory.
China is making it easier for tourists from the United States to visit by easing visa restrictions, a move to attract more foreign travelers since reopening borders earlier this year. Starting January 1, American tourists will no longer need to submit round-trip air tickets, proof of hotel reservations, itineraries, or invitations to China. The country’s goal in simplifying the application process is to further facilitate people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States.
Despite lifting strict pandemic measures earlier this year, China has seen a slow return of international travelers. In the first half of 2021, only 8.4 million entries and exits by foreigners were recorded, a significant drop from the 977 million seen in 2019. To boost tourism, China announced a visa-free entry program for citizens of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia for up to 15 days, signaling a high-level opening to the outside world.
However, China’s efforts to attract American tourists may face challenges. International flights between the two countries remain below pandemic levels, and the U.S. advisory recommended Americans reconsider traveling to China, citing the risk of wrongful detentions and exit bans imposed by the PRC government.
Source : China Eases Visa Requirements for US Travelers to Boost Tourism
