China führt ab dem 17. Februar 2026 die Visumfreiheit für kanadische Staatsbürger ein

16.02.2026

China introduces visa-free regime for Canadian citizens from February 17, 2026

China has officially confirmed the introduction of a visa-free regime for Canadian citizens. The new rules will take effect on February 17, 2026, and will last until December 31, 2026.

As reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC, holders of ordinary Canadian passports will be able to enter mainland China without a visa for up to 30 days. Visa-free entry will be allowed for tourism, business trips, visiting relatives and friends, as well as transit.

The decision was confirmed following the January visit of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to Beijing. During the negotiations with the Chairman of the PRC Xi Jinping, the parties discussed expanding bilateral contacts, including simplifying entry rules for citizens.

The Chinese foreign policy department stated that the new measure is aimed at 'further facilitating people-to-people exchanges and developing international cooperation'.

Canada has joined the ranks of about 50 states whose citizens already enjoy a similar visa-free regime for short-term trips to China. The innovation is expected to simplify business contacts, tourist trips, and humanitarian exchanges between the two countries.