In a major travel and diplomatic development, Canadian passport holders can now visit China visa-free for short stays. As of February 17, 2026, this new policy allows Canadians to enter China without a visa for up to 30 days, marking a significant shift in travel access between the two nations.

According to an official announcement by the People’s Republic of China Foreign Ministry, the visa exemption will remain in effect until at least December 31, 2026, though authorities have not yet confirmed whether it will be extended beyond that date.

Who Can Travel Visa-Free?

Under the new rules, Canadians can travel to China without a visa for purposes such as:

• Tourism

• Business visits

• Personal or family visits

• Exchange programs

• Transit travel

This policy also applies to passport holders from the United Kingdom under similar conditions, expanding China’s growing list of visa-exempt partner countries.

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Duration and Key Limitations

While the visa waiver simplifies travel, certain restrictions remain in place.

Canadians will still need a visa if they intend to:

• Take up paid employment or contractual work

• Pursue long-term or degree studies

• Stay in China for more than 30 days

Travellers planning extended stays must apply for the appropriate work, study, or residence permits before departure.

Expanded Transit Benefits

Another major update involves transit rules. Previously, Canadians could stay visa-free in China for transit purposes for up to 10 days at select ports of entry.

This has now been expanded to 30 days, giving travellers greater flexibility when using China as a stopover destination.

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A Shift in Travel Access

Until this policy change, China remained one of the few major destinations where Canadians did not enjoy visa-free access. Travellers often faced:

• Lengthy processing times

• Consulate appointments

• Detailed documentation requirements

There was one exception — Canadians could previously visit the island province of Hainan visa-free for up to 30 days — but access to mainland China still required formal visas.

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Impact on Chinese-Origin Canadians

China’s nationality laws do not recognize dual citizenship. This meant that many Chinese-origin Canadians — estimated at 1.7 million based on census data — previously faced additional entry requirements.

The new visa-free policy removes many of these barriers for short visits, making travel easier for family reunions, cultural visits, and business engagements.

Diplomatic Context Behind the Decision

The visa exemption did not emerge overnight. Early discussions surfaced about a month prior, following a diplomatic visit by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to China.

During a January 16 press conference, Carney welcomed the prospect of visa-free travel, highlighting opportunities for:

• Trade expansion

• Cultural exchange

• Artist collaborations

• Business partnerships

Notably, this trip marked the first official visit by a Canadian prime minister to China in more than eight years — signalling a thaw in diplomatic relations and renewed bilateral engagement.

What This Means for Canadian Travellers

This visa exemption offers several advantages:

• Easier business travel between Canada and China

• Boosted tourism opportunities

• Faster last-minute trip planning

• Reduced travel costs (no visa fees)

However, travellers should still ensure:

• Passport validity (typically 6 months)

• Proof of onward travel if transiting

• Accommodation details if requested

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

While global travel policies evolve, your long-term future in Canada requires the right immigration strategy. ICC Immigration is committed to helping individuals and families explore reliable pathways for settlement and success.

Our team evaluates each case carefully and recommends programs that align with your qualifications and goals — minimizing uncertainty and maximizing approval chances.

Our Key Services

1. Permanent Residency Applications
We assist with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other PR pathways, ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and competitive.

2. Work Permits and Study Permits
Whether you want to build Canadian work experience or pursue education, we guide you through temporary visas that can lead to permanent residency.

3. Family Sponsorships
Reuniting families is a priority. If you have eligible relatives in Canada, we help sponsor them through the proper immigration streams.

4. Expert Legal Advice
Canadian immigration policies can be complex and ever-changing. Our professionals provide compliant, up-to-date legal guidance to strengthen your case.

Instead of relying on uncertain routes, choose structured pathways that offer stability, security, and a clear road to Permanent Residency in Canada.

Whether you are already in Canada or planning your move, ICC Immigration provides the support and expertise you need to navigate your journey confidently.

Final Thoughts

The Canada to China visa-free travel policy marks a significant milestone in 2026, opening new doors for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. While currently temporary, it reflects improving diplomatic ties and could pave the way for longer-term mobility agreements.

Travellers should take advantage of this opportunity while staying informed about eligibility rules and future policy updates.