China and Canada are moving toward easing travel restrictions, following remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at a press conference in Beijing on January 16. 

This development marks a potential shift in China and Canada’s visa-free travel discussions, although no formal implementation date has been confirmed.

Carney confirmed that visa-free travel for holders of ordinary Canadian passports to the People’s Republic of China is under active consideration, describing it as part of broader efforts to improve bilateral relations and expand people-to-people exchanges. However, no formal start date or legal framework has yet been announced.

Following talks between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Carney, both governments indicated that a 30-day unilateral visa waiver is under discussion. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated this position on January 17, but the National Immigration Administration has not issued the required implementing circular. 

Until that legal step is completed, the proposed waiver remains non-operational, and Canadian travellers must continue to obtain visas before departure, except where existing exemptions apply.

If Canada is eventually added to China’s visa-exempt list, Canadian travellers would likely be permitted to enter China for tourism, short-term business activities, family visits, exchanges, and transit within the authorised stay period. The waiver would not allow paid employment, long-term studies, or stays exceeding 30 days without additional authorisation. 

Airlines have already cautioned that passengers without valid visas may be denied boarding during the interim period.

Canadian travellers currently benefit from limited visa-free access, including up to 240 hours of visa-free transit through designated ports of entry and up to 30 days of visa-free entry to Hainan Province for tourism, business, family visits, and medical purposes. 

These existing arrangements are expected to remain in place even after any broader visa waiver takes effect.

For businesses and mobility teams, the potential waiver could significantly reduce costs and administrative burdens for short-term travel, particularly for executives who make frequent visits. 

Nevertheless, until official guidance is issued, China and Canada’s visa-free travel remains under review, and existing visa requirements continue to apply for Canadian travellers.

Diplomatically, the move signals a gradual thaw after years of strained relations and, if finalised, would place Canada among the more than 45 countries that China has granted visa-free access as part of its post-pandemic reopening strategy. Once implemented, Canada will join 45 countries and territories whose citizens can stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa until December 31, 2026.